23
How much detailing to include is an
individual choice. Frames, floor boards,
thwart knees, moulding, and other
items shown on the plan add to the
model, but might be a little difficult to
make. Don't be afraid to try. Just keep
the scale in mind.
Boat Stowage on Davits:
The plans show
the boats on davits with gripes holding
them in place. As an option, omit the
gripes and suspend the boats from the
davit tackle.
Colors
: See the plans.
19. Ship's Name
The ship's name was carved into the
transom and bow, then painted. The
best way to add this detail is to buy dry
transfer letters (available at art and
office supply stores or model railroad
shops). After applying, give the letters a
coat of flat varnish. Or, make decals by
using dry transfer lettering on clear
decal sheets.
20. Hammock Rails
and Stanchions
Make the U-shaped stanchions from
1/64" x 1/32" brass bar. Glue on the
wood rails and lines (Figure 5-16). Stuff
a roll of white cloth between the rails to
fake the hammocks' canvas covers. For
a more uniform bag, cover a basswood
strip with cloth and insert it.
Today, hammock bags house life pre-
servers and cover the running lights
when
Niagara
is on exhibit.
21. Channels
Cut channels from stripwood and
install; or, wait until it's time to make
the chain plates. Consult Stage 8 for
chain plates and channel details.
22. Sweeps
Niagara's
20 sweeps were usually not
carried on board. If they were, they
were stowed along the aft bulwarks. A
typical sweep is shown on the plans.
Only masting and rigging remains.
Before continuing, recheck everything,
correct mistakes, and touch up paint
blemishes. Go over the plans again.
Was anything missed?
Fig 5-13 Quarter Davits
Fig 5-14 Building Ship's Boats
Fig 5-15 Homemade Double–Ended Caliper
Davit Sheaves
Quarter
Davit Strap
Sheer pole lashed to shrouds
Block on hull
Support block under channel
Brass
Laser-cut
davit
Wood boat
slide at
quarter davits
1
2
3
5.
Complete the details
(follow plans)
2.
Cut off tabs to correct hull profile
3.
Carve/sand interior &
exterior to hull lines
4.
Add keel
Frames
Molding
Laser-cut lifts
Rails
Floor boards
Thwarts & knees
Row locks
Gap is hull thickness
Pin or bolt at center
1/16" plywood
Model hull
"A"
"B"
Gap
"A"
must equal Gap
"B"
if ends do not touch, sand one end
until both ends touch (zero gap)
Stern
Bow
1
. Align tabs on all lifts as
you glue up lifts
