Now that you know the best wooden model boat kits, we’ll delve into the buying guide. While we have listed multiple options for different skill levels, it is essential to know what you need to consider before buying a model boat kit. With the number of intimidating products in the market, it might be challenging to know the best product. Besides, it would be remiss of us not to include a buying guide.

Here’s what to consider before buying any wooden model boat kit;

Preference 

As with anything you buy, the first thing is to check whether the product will meet your preferred needs. For instance, you can buy a specific kit when it comes to model ship kits due to its appeal and rich history. Moreover, you might prefer one that’s not too easy to put together. But, again, this will depend on your preference. 

Furthermore, the other motivating variable is childhood memories. You might have memories of going fishing or traveling with family using a particular boat. Therefore, before choosing any wooden model boat kit, look through various products and settle for the one that you like. 

Research 

Typically, you need to do a bit of research before buying a particular model ship kit. Research the brand and its reputation. This can be done by searching for information about the brand on the internet. Also, read customer reviews since this is the most reliable information you will get. 

What’s more, do your homework and learn about different ship parts and how they connect. This will come in handy in assisting you in finding your preferred model. 

Budget 

You need to look for a kit that you can afford. First, decide the amount you are willing to spend, then select a product within that range. The best way to stick to your budget is to measure up the prices. Currently, with the wide range of online retailers, you can compare prices from different websites.

Also, if you have the time, you can visit physical stores. Besides, do not forget to check the available products’ warranty, which allows you to get your cashback or have damaged parts replaced. 

Tools 

When putting together the parts of your ship, it is vital that you have the proper tools. Many wooden model boats utilize a plank-on-frame build, which means you will require placing every plank independently to develop a hull. This is where your tools will come in, and in this case, the electric plank. 

Besides, you will need ample working space to put the ship together. Ensure you have clamping tools, soldering iron, and glue gun to do a proper job. At times, you might require rubber gloves to shield your hands and safety glasses to shield your eyes. 

Drawing sheet & instructions manual

The next thing to look for is the instruction manual. Make sure you can understand it since this is a significant determining factor of success. Drawing sheets offer precision. Additionally, the drawing sheets offer you an idea of the possible scale ratio. 

Make sure your model boat kit has these two essential products. You can also go for manuals featuring colored pictures for a more effortless construction experience. 

How it will be delivered 

If you are going to purchase from a physical store, this is not an issue. On the other hand, if you’re buying your model kit online, you should consider their delivery method. 

Model kits are somewhat delicate, and they feature minor detailed portions which could be damaged easily. For this reason, ensure the retailer has a safe way of packaging and delivering without damaging it. 

Casing

Also referred to as cabinet, this is a critical factor to consider. This can considerably boost your model’s appearance. First, check to see if it features a wooden base and display cabinet. If not, you can choose a model that has them or purchase them separately. 

Materials 

Even a wooden model ship kit features other materials other than wood. Some parts are made using wood, while others feature metal. In addition, various fabrics are utilized for the sails. Also, some manufacturers utilize putty and wires to construct different elements of the ship. 

Validity 

If you genuinely love and appreciate your model ship’s history, ensure the kit is as good as the source. You can do this by checking the model kit’s description. Search for variables like the diameter. This will be handy in checking the authenticity of the model kit to its initial source. 

How to properly take care of your wooden model boat kit 

Having a wooden model boat kit is a huge responsibility because you need to keep the parts clean, and even when you`re done putting it together, you have to check on it every now and then. To make it easier for you, we`ve listed a couple of things you might need to do to keep the parts and the ship as good as new. 

Take care of the pieces from the beginning.

Properly taking care of your model begins once you start putting it together. First, take care of each part depending on the material it is made from. 

The metal parts are susceptible to rust if they are not washed properly before using them. Clean those using warm water and soap. What’s more, you can apply a coat of nail polish remover. 

When it comes to the wooden parts, which need to be stained or painted, you have to prepare them for sanding. Begin by sanding the woods, followed by dusting them off using a clean cloth. Sanding lets the paint soak inside the wood and prevents fading. 

Besides, you can utilize varnish, Tung oil, or stain to shield the wood. Finalize the procedure by utilizing a polyurethane topcoat. 

Don’t leave them open.

Your model ship will feature numerous small parts; thus, they will accumulate dust if you just leave them in the open. Utilize a display case to avoid this. Then, you can purchase or build them. 

As for materials, you can pick between glass, Bevelled Acrylic, and Plexi-glass. The most durable option is Plexi-glass. It will shield the parts from stains and oil. The display case will especially come in handy if you have a pet or children. 

Nonetheless, glass cases can at times build up acidic fumes, which will damage your model’s fabric. To avoid this, utilize a BoPET sheet between the bottom of your case and the glass to allow for aeration. 

Heat and light

Direct sunlight will damage the materials of the sail clothing and other fabrics. Also, keep the model under reduced voltage LED, and ensure the room it’s not too hot or wet. 

Additional tips 

After doing all this, and you still feel that it’s not enough, here are some additional tips;

• Open the case every two weeks and dust the pieces off using an air dryer on cool mode. Utilize bee wax to shield the rigging lines from being damaged.
• Use hairspray on the materials since it will prevent them from tattering.

FAQs

Which brands make the best wooden model boat kits?

It goes without saying that every business venturing in the wooden ship kit design describes its model as the best in the marketplace. Personal sentiments highly determine this. Acclaimed brands vary in the designing of the said wooden ship kits. Some of the best boat ship designs are from;

• Kolderstok
• Nordic class boats
• Model shipways
• Amati
• Artesania
• Pan art
• Disar

Which wood is best for ship models?

Balsa is the most reliable type of wood used in boat and ship models. It is the best for boat and shipbuilding due to its flexibility and ability to adjust to an almost circular shape. Therefore, balsa is highly recommended; it does not cost you much to purchase; this applies mainly to start-ups in the model boat building Industry.

Mahogany, or rather cherry wood, follows the latter in curving the best wooden designs of ship kits.

What are the best model kits?

Model shipways, without a shadow of a doubt, present the best ship kits. However, with model shipways come characteristics best suited for starters or designers who build models regularly. In addition, model shipways help to create a sense of relation with children.

Who comes up with the best plastic ship kit designs?

Brands manufacturing plastic ship design kits are not that many, but Revells turns out to be the highest-ranking amongst all. Other plastic ship module companies are;

• Modelcraft
• Airfix
• Hasegawa
• Trumpeter

In as much as most, if not all container and industrial ships are made of plastic, pirate ships that date a while back are also made of plastic. A majority of pirate vessels are made up of HMS ships and boats.

Before Commencing, Do I need previous modeling know-how?

Of course not.

Several beginner kits available to the public require no earlier experience. Although this might be, having prior knowledge of the model kits is an advantage to you.

For starters, one should be cautious when identifying his/her kit. Preferring a costly kit would be a rather unwanted choice. Why so? Human is to error. For the first available kits, it’s more likely for you to make a few mistakes when choosing the best models of wooden ships. So, subsequently, you should acquire one that is inexpensive and specific to new users.

Tools to acquire;

Magnifying glasses, clamp stands, paintbrushes, glue guns, mechanical saws, work tables. These are necessary when it comes to modeling wooden ships.

Electric plant benders and soldiering iron may also be of importance when it is a matter of advanced models of wooden ships.

Are you purchasing or building a design from scratch?

For beginners, buying a kit is advisable.

Model boat building kits come with content based on specific and procedural guidelines, which make your designing effortless.

As time goes by, building boat models from scratch becomes easier. However, this requires accuracy, knowledge, skill, and patience.

Do all designs float?

No, they don’t.

Some of the models can float, while some are just meant for display purposes.

For designers in need of floating model vessels, you have to peruse through its content/ abilities. Descriptions more often than not contain information concerning the model’s floating capabilities. For more details, you should contact the seller.