Welcome to RatLines!
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Cast Your Anchor wishes all of our friends the best this Holiday SeasonWe continue to enjoy seeing and chatting with all of our friends here at Cast Your Anchor and hope that you are enjoying the hobby of model ship building.
Santa Specials: Just in time for Christmas: We would like to tell you about all of the specials that we have in our store but they’re too numerous to mention. Come on down and enjoy the sights and sound of Cast Your Anchor. We look forward to seeing you this coming year.
Web Site: Don’t forget to visit our website http://castyouranchorhobby.com/. We offer information directed solely for model ship builders. You’ll find useful tips, a wide variety of kits, tools & parts for all your shipbuilding needs. We even have a Scratch Builder’s section. What comes after the foghorn?
Articles: In our endeavour to make the building of a ship model a pleasure, we continue to produce articles on step by step procedures that provide lots of helpful tips to help you with the build. After all, your success is our success. So far the articles have been; How to Choose a Ship Model Kit; Ship Modeling Decisions; Ship Model Jigs; Building Ship Model Hulls and; Planking Ship Model Hulls. The next article will be on Ship Model Deck Planking. If you would like a copy of any of these articles just contact the store and we’ll email it to you.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Building Ship Model Hulls
Building Ship Model Hulls
In comparison with the intricate tasks involved in making some of the tiny detail components, the construction of the hull is just as important. You have to work to a high standard of accuracy ensuring that the hull is not crooked or planks are not buckled and wavy. In the building of a closed hull or plank-on-bulkhead model ship, by far the most popular type of construction, the false keel and bulkheads are the underpinning of both the structure and form of your model.
The three types of models are frame, admiralty and fully planked. The fully planked closed hull is the easiest to build but still requires great care. After removing any spurious material from the laser cut false keel and bulkheads, start at either end by applying the bulkheads. Very often the precut bulkheads - the solid anthwartships – found on plank on bulkhead ship model are out of symmetry and off centre. If you assemble them without correcting the imperfections, you end up with an uneven hull profile.
Place a bulkhead piece from your kit on a thick piece of paper and trace its outline. Cut around the outline, fold the paper in half making sure that the upper outer edges are matched and clipped together before you crease it in the middle. The crease will produce a true centerline and show if the lower outer edges are cut unevenly or if the keel slot in the frame is off centre. If the outer edges are misaligned, remove the excess on the pattern with scissors to even out the edges of the two halves. Return the folded pattern to the bulkhead frame, mark and file off the excess from the frame itself and draw the centerline. If the keel slot is out of centre with the pattern, mark it on the false keel. Repeat this on the other side of the frame by just turning the pattern over and aligning it on the previously drawn centerline.
Next correct the bulkhead frame’s outer profile by filing off any excess you have marked. If the center slot is out of alignment with the centerline, glue on thin strips of wood to fill one side and remove the excess on the other side. Finally, draw the centerline on the top edge of the bulkhead. This mark will help line up the frame with the keel during the actual assembly. If you repeat this procedure with every bulkhead, you will end up with a symmetrical hull profile.
When assembling the bulkheads to the false keel, make sure that the centre of each bulkhead is aligned with the keel, the tops of the frames are flush with the upper edge of the keel and that the frames are neither too tight nor too loose in the keel notches.
One trick is to use the false deck as an aligning method for the bulkhead frames. With a pencil, mark the centerline on both the top and bottom of the false deck. Place the keel on the deck and mark the outline of each of the frame slots on the deck line. With a square, mark the bulkhead lines on both sides and top and bottom of the false deck. Then you can begin the assembly process.
Place and pin the false deck on top of the false keel. Then make sure that every bulkhead frame is exactly on its line under the deck.
Each bulkhead has to be positioned at true right angles to the false keel. Attach the frame by means of wood glue and reinforce with pins. Glue has a tendency to distort the false keel so make sure that one bulkhead is put on at a time and continually check for warpage. Once all the bulkheads are in position and fastened firmly take a long piece of sandpaper wrapped wood or a rasp and gently sand the shape of the bulkheads ensuring clean lines from bow to stern and that the port side mirrors the starboard side without any concave or convex areas.
In order to avoid warpage over time, you can apply a coat of diluted glue or vanish to seal the wood cells.
There are various tools available to help make this job easy to deal with. A Fair-A Frame holds and aligns both the false keel and bulkheads during assembly. A Keel Klamp or a Timber Tapering Tool will help ensure that the false keel does not warp during construction. And a small square is an invaluable aid. Remember that no matter what tool you use, you are building the skeleton of your ship model. You must get this right to have your model looking its best when it is complete.
In comparison with the intricate tasks involved in making some of the tiny detail components, the construction of the hull is just as important. You have to work to a high standard of accuracy ensuring that the hull is not crooked or planks are not buckled and wavy. In the building of a closed hull or plank-on-bulkhead model ship, by far the most popular type of construction, the false keel and bulkheads are the underpinning of both the structure and form of your model.
The three types of models are frame, admiralty and fully planked. The fully planked closed hull is the easiest to build but still requires great care. After removing any spurious material from the laser cut false keel and bulkheads, start at either end by applying the bulkheads. Very often the precut bulkheads - the solid anthwartships – found on plank on bulkhead ship model are out of symmetry and off centre. If you assemble them without correcting the imperfections, you end up with an uneven hull profile.
Place a bulkhead piece from your kit on a thick piece of paper and trace its outline. Cut around the outline, fold the paper in half making sure that the upper outer edges are matched and clipped together before you crease it in the middle. The crease will produce a true centerline and show if the lower outer edges are cut unevenly or if the keel slot in the frame is off centre. If the outer edges are misaligned, remove the excess on the pattern with scissors to even out the edges of the two halves. Return the folded pattern to the bulkhead frame, mark and file off the excess from the frame itself and draw the centerline. If the keel slot is out of centre with the pattern, mark it on the false keel. Repeat this on the other side of the frame by just turning the pattern over and aligning it on the previously drawn centerline.
Next correct the bulkhead frame’s outer profile by filing off any excess you have marked. If the center slot is out of alignment with the centerline, glue on thin strips of wood to fill one side and remove the excess on the other side. Finally, draw the centerline on the top edge of the bulkhead. This mark will help line up the frame with the keel during the actual assembly. If you repeat this procedure with every bulkhead, you will end up with a symmetrical hull profile.
When assembling the bulkheads to the false keel, make sure that the centre of each bulkhead is aligned with the keel, the tops of the frames are flush with the upper edge of the keel and that the frames are neither too tight nor too loose in the keel notches.
One trick is to use the false deck as an aligning method for the bulkhead frames. With a pencil, mark the centerline on both the top and bottom of the false deck. Place the keel on the deck and mark the outline of each of the frame slots on the deck line. With a square, mark the bulkhead lines on both sides and top and bottom of the false deck. Then you can begin the assembly process.
Place and pin the false deck on top of the false keel. Then make sure that every bulkhead frame is exactly on its line under the deck.
Each bulkhead has to be positioned at true right angles to the false keel. Attach the frame by means of wood glue and reinforce with pins. Glue has a tendency to distort the false keel so make sure that one bulkhead is put on at a time and continually check for warpage. Once all the bulkheads are in position and fastened firmly take a long piece of sandpaper wrapped wood or a rasp and gently sand the shape of the bulkheads ensuring clean lines from bow to stern and that the port side mirrors the starboard side without any concave or convex areas.
In order to avoid warpage over time, you can apply a coat of diluted glue or vanish to seal the wood cells.
There are various tools available to help make this job easy to deal with. A Fair-A Frame holds and aligns both the false keel and bulkheads during assembly. A Keel Klamp or a Timber Tapering Tool will help ensure that the false keel does not warp during construction. And a small square is an invaluable aid. Remember that no matter what tool you use, you are building the skeleton of your ship model. You must get this right to have your model looking its best when it is complete.
November Newsletter
Welcome to RatLines!
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What’s New?
Celebrating our 7th Year in Business
Did you know that Cast Your Anchor is celebrating its 7th year in business this month? Oh how time flies when you’re building a ship model. It all started off with a visit to the Ontario Science Centre 40 years ago so in a virtual sense, Cast Your Anchor has been in existence for forty years. . We’re still having fun and hope to be around for many more years.
Ship Model Fittings Catalogue
Cast Your Anchor is continuing to work on our new ship model fittings catalogue. It will be available this month. For those of you who have indicated you want a copy, we will be mailing it out to you soon.
Make Ship Model Building Easier
Just in time for Christmas, Cast Your Anchor is offering a free How to Assemble a Wooden Model Ship DVD with every kit purchased over $200. This DVD explains in simple, easy to understand terms how to build a wooden ship model. A must have for both the novice and experienced ship model builder. Remember that in ship model building there are no “right” techniques. It’s always beneficial to understand the techniques that others use in assembling a wooden ship model.
When you place your order either on line or by phone just indicate that you would like a copy of the Best Ship Modeling Assembly Instructions DVD in the World!
Own a Piece of the Bluenose II
A new offering from Cast Your Anchor. The Bluenose II kit from Artesania Latina, assembly DVD, tool kit and the book Bluenose II Measured Drawings by L.B.Jenson all for the low price of $279.95. But wait – there’s more. Buy this set and we’ll throw in a piece of the hull of the Bluenose II – a $50 value. This historical piece is authenticated by the Bluenose Company Store in Lunenburg NS. What a great incentive to build the best know Canadian vessel ever! Need another incentive? If you have been thinking about building the Artesania Latina Bluenose II model ship, now is the time to act. The current kit has been discontinued but will be replaced with a revised edition. The good news is that the revised kit has better detailing. The bad news is that the price has substantially increased. The new price will be $299.95 just for the kit. Back to the good news - Cast Your Anchor has 7 of the discontinued kits left. So yes, it’s time to act.
Feature Kit of the Month
This month’s feature kit by Cast Your Anchor is the Victoria Radio Control Sailboat. Our kit includes the sail boat, 2 channel radio, tweezers, hobby knife, CA glue and the book, Basics of Ship Modeling for a price of $289.95.
What’s that – you want another great deal? Ok, how about this. All woodcarving tools and file sets at an incredible 25% off website listed prices. As an example, PROFESSIONAL QUALITY CABINETMAKER’S CHISEL SET - 12 PCS. Professional quality chisel set contains 12 different carving shapes ranging in size from 1/4" to 1/2". Steel blades with wooden handles. Overall length 7-1/2" to 8" for a price of only $22.46. Call us to receive the discount on your order.
≠
What’s New?
Celebrating our 7th Year in Business
Did you know that Cast Your Anchor is celebrating its 7th year in business this month? Oh how time flies when you’re building a ship model. It all started off with a visit to the Ontario Science Centre 40 years ago so in a virtual sense, Cast Your Anchor has been in existence for forty years. . We’re still having fun and hope to be around for many more years.
Ship Model Fittings Catalogue
Cast Your Anchor is continuing to work on our new ship model fittings catalogue. It will be available this month. For those of you who have indicated you want a copy, we will be mailing it out to you soon.
Make Ship Model Building Easier
Just in time for Christmas, Cast Your Anchor is offering a free How to Assemble a Wooden Model Ship DVD with every kit purchased over $200. This DVD explains in simple, easy to understand terms how to build a wooden ship model. A must have for both the novice and experienced ship model builder. Remember that in ship model building there are no “right” techniques. It’s always beneficial to understand the techniques that others use in assembling a wooden ship model.
When you place your order either on line or by phone just indicate that you would like a copy of the Best Ship Modeling Assembly Instructions DVD in the World!
Own a Piece of the Bluenose II
A new offering from Cast Your Anchor. The Bluenose II kit from Artesania Latina, assembly DVD, tool kit and the book Bluenose II Measured Drawings by L.B.Jenson all for the low price of $279.95. But wait – there’s more. Buy this set and we’ll throw in a piece of the hull of the Bluenose II – a $50 value. This historical piece is authenticated by the Bluenose Company Store in Lunenburg NS. What a great incentive to build the best know Canadian vessel ever! Need another incentive? If you have been thinking about building the Artesania Latina Bluenose II model ship, now is the time to act. The current kit has been discontinued but will be replaced with a revised edition. The good news is that the revised kit has better detailing. The bad news is that the price has substantially increased. The new price will be $299.95 just for the kit. Back to the good news - Cast Your Anchor has 7 of the discontinued kits left. So yes, it’s time to act.
Feature Kit of the Month
This month’s feature kit by Cast Your Anchor is the Victoria Radio Control Sailboat. Our kit includes the sail boat, 2 channel radio, tweezers, hobby knife, CA glue and the book, Basics of Ship Modeling for a price of $289.95.
What’s that – you want another great deal? Ok, how about this. All woodcarving tools and file sets at an incredible 25% off website listed prices. As an example, PROFESSIONAL QUALITY CABINETMAKER’S CHISEL SET - 12 PCS. Professional quality chisel set contains 12 different carving shapes ranging in size from 1/4" to 1/2". Steel blades with wooden handles. Overall length 7-1/2" to 8" for a price of only $22.46. Call us to receive the discount on your order.
Saturday, October 03, 2009
October 2009 Newsletter
RatLines!
The Ship Model Builder’s Compass
October 2009 Volume 5, Issue 04
Welcome to RatLines!
≠
What’s New?
Ship Model Fittings Catalogue
Cast Your Anchor is now the global premier company offering ship model fittings, parts and accessories from around the world. We provide fittings from all of the major manufacturers of ship model kits. Check out our expanded line of modern ship fittings.
And remember that our customer service is unmatched. We understand that it can be difficult to gauge the size of the fitting you want so we offer all of our customers the option of test driving the fitting. Wrong size – return it for a replacement or a refund. Also, there is no minimum order size - we are happy to ship you one package at a time!
Although the response to our ship model fittings offering has been fabulous our customers have indicated that they would like to have a hard copy catalogue. Coming soon – the Cast Your Anchor Ship Model Fittings and Parts catalogue. The only catalogue in the world expressly offering ship model fittings. Let us know if you would like a catalogue mailed to you.
Make Ship Model Building Easier
Just in time for Christmas, Cast Your Anchor is offering a free How to Assemble a Wooden Model Ship DVD with every kit purchased over $200. This DVD explains in simple, easy to understand terms how to build a wooden ship model. A must have for both the novice and experienced ship model builder. Remember that in ship model building there are no “right” techniques. It’s always beneficial to understand the techniques that others use in assembling a wooden ship model.
When you place your order either on line or by phone just indicate that you would like a copy of the Best Ship Modeling Assembly Instructions DVD in the World!
Own a Piece of the Bluenose II
A new offering from Cast Your Anchor. The Bluenose II kit from Artesania Latina, assembly DVD, tool kit and the book Bluenose II Measured Drawings by L.B.Jenson all for the low price of $279.95. But wait – there’s more. Buy this set and we’ll through in a piece of the hull of the Bluenose II – a $50 value. This historical piece is authenticated by the Bluenose Company Store in Lunenburg NS. What a great incentive to build the best know Canadian vessel ever! Limited quantities available.
Feature Kit of the Month
A new monthly series by Cast our Anchor starting with 77001 fishing vessel Doris. A great starter kit, it gives you experience with shaping and planking a wooden model ship. The Doris was type of small fishing and work boat which began to be used in France after the war of 1870. By then the Americans had already been using them for some time in the schooners working off Massachusetts and Nova Scotia. We are offering this kit and are essential tool kit and the guide to model ship building, Jackstay for an incredible price of $159.95 CDN. Limited quantities available.
The Ship Model Builder’s Compass
October 2009 Volume 5, Issue 04
Welcome to RatLines!
≠
What’s New?
Ship Model Fittings Catalogue
Cast Your Anchor is now the global premier company offering ship model fittings, parts and accessories from around the world. We provide fittings from all of the major manufacturers of ship model kits. Check out our expanded line of modern ship fittings.
And remember that our customer service is unmatched. We understand that it can be difficult to gauge the size of the fitting you want so we offer all of our customers the option of test driving the fitting. Wrong size – return it for a replacement or a refund. Also, there is no minimum order size - we are happy to ship you one package at a time!
Although the response to our ship model fittings offering has been fabulous our customers have indicated that they would like to have a hard copy catalogue. Coming soon – the Cast Your Anchor Ship Model Fittings and Parts catalogue. The only catalogue in the world expressly offering ship model fittings. Let us know if you would like a catalogue mailed to you.
Make Ship Model Building Easier
Just in time for Christmas, Cast Your Anchor is offering a free How to Assemble a Wooden Model Ship DVD with every kit purchased over $200. This DVD explains in simple, easy to understand terms how to build a wooden ship model. A must have for both the novice and experienced ship model builder. Remember that in ship model building there are no “right” techniques. It’s always beneficial to understand the techniques that others use in assembling a wooden ship model.
When you place your order either on line or by phone just indicate that you would like a copy of the Best Ship Modeling Assembly Instructions DVD in the World!
Own a Piece of the Bluenose II
A new offering from Cast Your Anchor. The Bluenose II kit from Artesania Latina, assembly DVD, tool kit and the book Bluenose II Measured Drawings by L.B.Jenson all for the low price of $279.95. But wait – there’s more. Buy this set and we’ll through in a piece of the hull of the Bluenose II – a $50 value. This historical piece is authenticated by the Bluenose Company Store in Lunenburg NS. What a great incentive to build the best know Canadian vessel ever! Limited quantities available.
Feature Kit of the Month
A new monthly series by Cast our Anchor starting with 77001 fishing vessel Doris. A great starter kit, it gives you experience with shaping and planking a wooden model ship. The Doris was type of small fishing and work boat which began to be used in France after the war of 1870. By then the Americans had already been using them for some time in the schooners working off Massachusetts and Nova Scotia. We are offering this kit and are essential tool kit and the guide to model ship building, Jackstay for an incredible price of $159.95 CDN. Limited quantities available.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Ship Modeling Decisions
Choosing the model ship you want to build is a fun, interesting and exciting exercise. You have to consider the history of the ship, the shape, the level of detailing you want, the type of vessel and the skill level required to fashion the model. You need to understand the differences between different ship model kit manufacturers such as the level of instruction provided, quality of fittings, and accuracy of the model.
So now you have selected the ship model you want to build and you have decided on the manufacture of the kit. Great! Let’s talk about some other decisions you need to make prior to building.
Where will you model be displayed?
There are multiple manufactures of the same model ship. Typically the kits will be available in different scales. Each of the scales has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider where in your home you are going to display the finished model. Some scales are good for representing sensible size without involving too much intricate work. Other considerations include the skill of the builder, the level of detail you want and the space in which you have to work.
How is your model ship to be displayed?
Is the model to be in harbor, sailing at sea or in battle with other ships? It’s important to determine this so you will be able to decide on the sails and gun placements. As an example, if the ship is in battle not all sails would have been in use so your model should have some of the sails furled. Also the display of the guns is important. Most guns barrels are displayed outside of the gun ports which would indicate a battle is brewing. Models usually have all the guns outside the ports but in real action, some of the guns would have been just fired or in the process of being reloaded. Some of the breeching would be loose and some under tension. If the ship is sailing at sea, all of the gun port lids would be closed and the breeching would be under tension.
Can you obtain research material on the ship you want to build?
Let’s face it, commercial ship model kits are subject to the demands and limitations of mass manufacturing processes. That’s not to say that the plans and fittings are not reasonable replicas of the ship. However much detail and accuracy are sacrificed in the production process. It’s necessary therefore to obtain material on the ship that provides you with historical accuracy. Some of the resources for this research material are books, nautical archives, artist renderings, and specific historical marine institutions. Along with information on the ship itself you should also research marine technology of the era.
What is the era of the ship you are modeling and what country did it come from?
This is very important because as time went on, different techniques were used to build the ship. You want to make sure that your model uses the correct fittings for the era in which it sailed. As an example, the hulls of ships were sheathed with elm or fir planks from the late 16th Century to the middle 18th Century after which copper sheets were used. The exception is Spain and Portugal which sheathed the hull in thin lead from the early 16th Century.
What Skills do you Posses?
The basic skills of a ship modeler are working with wood, metal, carving and finishing. Most people are quite comfortable with working in one of these mediums. You do not need to be an absolute expert –practice makes perfect in the end – but you should have a pretty good idea of these techniques. Theory is a fine thing, and can be useful now and then, but it is no substitute for practice. You may consider commercially available parts available at Hobby Stores like Cast Your Anchor if you are not quite comfortable with your skill level in a certain area.
Is your ship model to be coloured or are you going to leave the natural wood finish?
All ships had finishes applied to protect them from the harsh environment of the seas. Of course the choice is yours on how you want to finish your model. Should you decide to put a finish on it, you should try to keep to the finishes available at the time the ship existed. For example, below the waterline the hull was often painted with wood-coal tar, which coloured it a dark brown or almost black. After the 16th Century, sulpher was added to the tar which left the hull with a yellowish-grey tinge to it. If sulpher was not used, a white lead paint was and this left the hull a dirty white colour.
So now you have selected the ship model you want to build and you have decided on the manufacture of the kit. Great! Let’s talk about some other decisions you need to make prior to building.
Where will you model be displayed?
There are multiple manufactures of the same model ship. Typically the kits will be available in different scales. Each of the scales has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider where in your home you are going to display the finished model. Some scales are good for representing sensible size without involving too much intricate work. Other considerations include the skill of the builder, the level of detail you want and the space in which you have to work.
How is your model ship to be displayed?
Is the model to be in harbor, sailing at sea or in battle with other ships? It’s important to determine this so you will be able to decide on the sails and gun placements. As an example, if the ship is in battle not all sails would have been in use so your model should have some of the sails furled. Also the display of the guns is important. Most guns barrels are displayed outside of the gun ports which would indicate a battle is brewing. Models usually have all the guns outside the ports but in real action, some of the guns would have been just fired or in the process of being reloaded. Some of the breeching would be loose and some under tension. If the ship is sailing at sea, all of the gun port lids would be closed and the breeching would be under tension.
Can you obtain research material on the ship you want to build?
Let’s face it, commercial ship model kits are subject to the demands and limitations of mass manufacturing processes. That’s not to say that the plans and fittings are not reasonable replicas of the ship. However much detail and accuracy are sacrificed in the production process. It’s necessary therefore to obtain material on the ship that provides you with historical accuracy. Some of the resources for this research material are books, nautical archives, artist renderings, and specific historical marine institutions. Along with information on the ship itself you should also research marine technology of the era.
What is the era of the ship you are modeling and what country did it come from?
This is very important because as time went on, different techniques were used to build the ship. You want to make sure that your model uses the correct fittings for the era in which it sailed. As an example, the hulls of ships were sheathed with elm or fir planks from the late 16th Century to the middle 18th Century after which copper sheets were used. The exception is Spain and Portugal which sheathed the hull in thin lead from the early 16th Century.
What Skills do you Posses?
The basic skills of a ship modeler are working with wood, metal, carving and finishing. Most people are quite comfortable with working in one of these mediums. You do not need to be an absolute expert –practice makes perfect in the end – but you should have a pretty good idea of these techniques. Theory is a fine thing, and can be useful now and then, but it is no substitute for practice. You may consider commercially available parts available at Hobby Stores like Cast Your Anchor if you are not quite comfortable with your skill level in a certain area.
Is your ship model to be coloured or are you going to leave the natural wood finish?
All ships had finishes applied to protect them from the harsh environment of the seas. Of course the choice is yours on how you want to finish your model. Should you decide to put a finish on it, you should try to keep to the finishes available at the time the ship existed. For example, below the waterline the hull was often painted with wood-coal tar, which coloured it a dark brown or almost black. After the 16th Century, sulpher was added to the tar which left the hull with a yellowish-grey tinge to it. If sulpher was not used, a white lead paint was and this left the hull a dirty white colour.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Radio Control Season is Back!
Radio Control: Spring is here and it’s time to turn our attention to Radio Control Power Boats and Sailboats. Check out the line of great radio control products at Cast Your Anchor. We are here to help you enjoy the fine weather ahead.
Modern Ship Fittings: Cast Your Anchor is pleased to present a new line of modern ship fittings. Imported from Europe, we have the largest selection of modern ship fittings in North America. Click on the link and see what’s new at Cast Your Anchor. http://www.castyouranchorhobby.com/cat--Modern-Ship-Fittings--Modern+Ship+Fittings
Ship Model Kit Manufactures: Cast Your Anchor has added 5 new manufactures of model ship kits. Aeronaut, Billings, Bluejacket, Caldercraft and Model Slipway. These kits are European designed and manufactured. Check them out.
Web Site: Visit our new website at http://www.castyouranchorhobby.com/. We offer information directed solely for model ship builders. You’ll find useful tips, a wide variety of kits, tools & parts for all your shipbuilding needs.
Are you feeling anxious, emotionally fragile, worried, fearful or nervous about the current economic crises? During these difficult economic times, returning to basics can be the golden lining. Recessions do create opportunities. For example there is a way of increasing your net worth even if your investments have gone south for their winter vacation. Net worth is defined as your assets minus your liabilities. So if you reduce your liabilities, your net worth increases. A pretty simple concept that works. Speaking about simple concepts, how about returning to simpler times. Instead of buying fast food, how about learning to cook from scratch. Other activities that are fun and don’t cost too much money are reading library books, drawing, painting, volunteer work, socializing with your neighbors and handmade crafts. Kind of sounds like Little House on the Prairie but how much fun can this be?
Now let’s talk about stuff. The word stuff is used to emphasize that you do not care about something, or do not want it or things that have no real value. During these times we can redefine what stuff is valuable to us and what stuff is not. The idea during a recession is not to add valueless stuff to your collection but to add value. Value is the importance or worth of something for someone. Notice that there is no mention of monetary value in this definition. As an example, we, at Cast Your Anchor have repaired many ship models that have been left to rot in basements or attics by their owners. These models were hand crafted by a loved one and their value went unnoticed for many years until one day, they were rediscovered by the children or grand children of the builder and their true value was finally recognized. The moral of the story is that value is in the eye of the beholder and a recession can open eyes that were wide shut.
Speaking about handmade crafts, perhaps you have always wanted a ship model for your fireplace mantel. But the cost of a completed model can be pricey. What’s the option? Build your own! Cast Your Anchor is in the business of helping builders be successful at the hobby of model ship building. We are always happy to answer questions and give advice. And don’t forget that the cost per hour of this hobby is only $.04. Could have something to do with the time it takes to produce a work of art. The thing is, by the time you finish your model the recession will be well over – guaranteed. But how much fun did you have and what value have you created even if it is not recognized yet.
So try to stop feeling anxious, emotionally fragile, worried, fearful or nervous about the current economic crises. The glass has always been half full. It’s OK to take a sip every now and again, enjoy life and look forward to the times ahead and while you are at it, try to go back to the future. That’s where living really starts.
Modern Ship Fittings: Cast Your Anchor is pleased to present a new line of modern ship fittings. Imported from Europe, we have the largest selection of modern ship fittings in North America. Click on the link and see what’s new at Cast Your Anchor. http://www.castyouranchorhobby.com/cat--Modern-Ship-Fittings--Modern+Ship+Fittings
Ship Model Kit Manufactures: Cast Your Anchor has added 5 new manufactures of model ship kits. Aeronaut, Billings, Bluejacket, Caldercraft and Model Slipway. These kits are European designed and manufactured. Check them out.
Web Site: Visit our new website at http://www.castyouranchorhobby.com/. We offer information directed solely for model ship builders. You’ll find useful tips, a wide variety of kits, tools & parts for all your shipbuilding needs.
Are you feeling anxious, emotionally fragile, worried, fearful or nervous about the current economic crises? During these difficult economic times, returning to basics can be the golden lining. Recessions do create opportunities. For example there is a way of increasing your net worth even if your investments have gone south for their winter vacation. Net worth is defined as your assets minus your liabilities. So if you reduce your liabilities, your net worth increases. A pretty simple concept that works. Speaking about simple concepts, how about returning to simpler times. Instead of buying fast food, how about learning to cook from scratch. Other activities that are fun and don’t cost too much money are reading library books, drawing, painting, volunteer work, socializing with your neighbors and handmade crafts. Kind of sounds like Little House on the Prairie but how much fun can this be?
Now let’s talk about stuff. The word stuff is used to emphasize that you do not care about something, or do not want it or things that have no real value. During these times we can redefine what stuff is valuable to us and what stuff is not. The idea during a recession is not to add valueless stuff to your collection but to add value. Value is the importance or worth of something for someone. Notice that there is no mention of monetary value in this definition. As an example, we, at Cast Your Anchor have repaired many ship models that have been left to rot in basements or attics by their owners. These models were hand crafted by a loved one and their value went unnoticed for many years until one day, they were rediscovered by the children or grand children of the builder and their true value was finally recognized. The moral of the story is that value is in the eye of the beholder and a recession can open eyes that were wide shut.
Speaking about handmade crafts, perhaps you have always wanted a ship model for your fireplace mantel. But the cost of a completed model can be pricey. What’s the option? Build your own! Cast Your Anchor is in the business of helping builders be successful at the hobby of model ship building. We are always happy to answer questions and give advice. And don’t forget that the cost per hour of this hobby is only $.04. Could have something to do with the time it takes to produce a work of art. The thing is, by the time you finish your model the recession will be well over – guaranteed. But how much fun did you have and what value have you created even if it is not recognized yet.
So try to stop feeling anxious, emotionally fragile, worried, fearful or nervous about the current economic crises. The glass has always been half full. It’s OK to take a sip every now and again, enjoy life and look forward to the times ahead and while you are at it, try to go back to the future. That’s where living really starts.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
January 2009 Newsletter
Welcome to RatLines!
Cast Your Anchor is on the move.
≠
Evolution: Cast Your Anchor will be moving to a new location effective February 15, 2009
Our new address will be: 4117 Lawrence Ave East
Unit 102
Toronto, Ontario M1E 2S2
This move represents our evolving business and will help us better serve you, our valued clients. Hobby stores of the future will be taking on a new format. Cast Your Anchor is on the leading edge of this shift.
Take a few minutes and come and visit our showroom. We are located on the southwest corner close to Lawrence and Kingston Road.
Web Site: Visit our new website at www.castyouranchorhobby.com. We offer information directed solely for model ship builders. You’ll find useful tips, a wide variety of kits, tools & parts for all your shipbuilding needs.
ADHESIVES AND FINISHES FOR SHIP MODEL BUILDING
Adhesives
Our sticky arsenal of model glue includes glues or adhesives for every need. There are two types of glue that we recommend for wood to wood bonding. Wood glue from either Titebond or Elmers (our preference is Titebond because it is a bit thicker and therefore easier to work with than Elmers) and contact cement from LePages.
The advantage of wood glue is that it is water based and thus forms a true bond within the cellular structure of the wood. Also because it is water based, you can easily un-adhere two pieces by applying water. The disadvantage is that it is slow drying so you need to use clamps unless you have a lot of time on your hands. With contact cement, there is a bit of an art to using it. You do have to know how to work with this glue because once the pieces are bonded together, that’s it – they’re stuck for life.
For unlike materials such as metal to wood, cyanoacrylate (CA or super glue) or epoxy is recommended. CA glue comes in three versions ranging from instant adhesion to adhesion in about one minute. The longer setting glue is also known as gap filling glue. There are products that accelerate bonding or de-bonding making this glue fairly easy to use. The disadvantage with CA glue is that there is no true bonding that occurs between the materials. There is also a potential health issue due to the solvents if you use this glue in quantity over a prolonged period of time.
There is a third adhesive we use called hypo cement. We use this glue for binding of knots when rigging the model. It’s fairly slow drying but the advantage is that there is no shiny residue when it dries so you can’t see it on your work. It’s also a soft glue that doesn’t dry stiff. This leaves a natural looking finish to your rigging.
Finishes
Finishes of ship models range from the natural wood look, stained or painted. This is all a matter of either personal choice or historical accuracy.
If you want the natural wood look, we recommend a spar semi gloss transparent urethane finish from Helmsman. Diluted 30% for the first two coats then full strength for the third coat, this finish will bring out the natural grain of the wood you are using.
Some builders prefer staining some or all of the wood. Staining can give a rich old world look to your model.
Some modelers prefer enamel paints, others prefer acrylic paints and both types of paint have strong supporters. Which type of paint you use is a matter of personal choice. Enamel paints generally provide a tougher finish and a higher gloss, while acrylic paints dry much faster and are often water-soluble, which makes them easier to clean up. All model paints, regardless of type, must be thinned for airbrushing. If you want to experiment, try using oil based paints especially if you are building a model of antiquity like a Viking ship. This paint will give a well aged look to your work. Cast Your Anchor has a wide range of model paints in the paint colors that you are looking for. We also have a great line of paint brushes and other paint accessories.
Finally, plating of metal parts can add a realistic patina to your work. There are plating solutions available to blacken bright metals like brass, or a solution to apply over copper to give it that greenish patina. There is even a product available to give wood an aged look without staining or painting.
Some builders prefer the natural look and others the stained look. The choice is yours but remember we’re here to offer advice and all the finishing materials you need!
Cast Your Anchor is on the move.
≠
Evolution: Cast Your Anchor will be moving to a new location effective February 15, 2009
Our new address will be: 4117 Lawrence Ave East
Unit 102
Toronto, Ontario M1E 2S2
This move represents our evolving business and will help us better serve you, our valued clients. Hobby stores of the future will be taking on a new format. Cast Your Anchor is on the leading edge of this shift.
Take a few minutes and come and visit our showroom. We are located on the southwest corner close to Lawrence and Kingston Road.
Web Site: Visit our new website at www.castyouranchorhobby.com. We offer information directed solely for model ship builders. You’ll find useful tips, a wide variety of kits, tools & parts for all your shipbuilding needs.
ADHESIVES AND FINISHES FOR SHIP MODEL BUILDING
Adhesives
Our sticky arsenal of model glue includes glues or adhesives for every need. There are two types of glue that we recommend for wood to wood bonding. Wood glue from either Titebond or Elmers (our preference is Titebond because it is a bit thicker and therefore easier to work with than Elmers) and contact cement from LePages.
The advantage of wood glue is that it is water based and thus forms a true bond within the cellular structure of the wood. Also because it is water based, you can easily un-adhere two pieces by applying water. The disadvantage is that it is slow drying so you need to use clamps unless you have a lot of time on your hands. With contact cement, there is a bit of an art to using it. You do have to know how to work with this glue because once the pieces are bonded together, that’s it – they’re stuck for life.
For unlike materials such as metal to wood, cyanoacrylate (CA or super glue) or epoxy is recommended. CA glue comes in three versions ranging from instant adhesion to adhesion in about one minute. The longer setting glue is also known as gap filling glue. There are products that accelerate bonding or de-bonding making this glue fairly easy to use. The disadvantage with CA glue is that there is no true bonding that occurs between the materials. There is also a potential health issue due to the solvents if you use this glue in quantity over a prolonged period of time.
There is a third adhesive we use called hypo cement. We use this glue for binding of knots when rigging the model. It’s fairly slow drying but the advantage is that there is no shiny residue when it dries so you can’t see it on your work. It’s also a soft glue that doesn’t dry stiff. This leaves a natural looking finish to your rigging.
Finishes
Finishes of ship models range from the natural wood look, stained or painted. This is all a matter of either personal choice or historical accuracy.
If you want the natural wood look, we recommend a spar semi gloss transparent urethane finish from Helmsman. Diluted 30% for the first two coats then full strength for the third coat, this finish will bring out the natural grain of the wood you are using.
Some builders prefer staining some or all of the wood. Staining can give a rich old world look to your model.
Some modelers prefer enamel paints, others prefer acrylic paints and both types of paint have strong supporters. Which type of paint you use is a matter of personal choice. Enamel paints generally provide a tougher finish and a higher gloss, while acrylic paints dry much faster and are often water-soluble, which makes them easier to clean up. All model paints, regardless of type, must be thinned for airbrushing. If you want to experiment, try using oil based paints especially if you are building a model of antiquity like a Viking ship. This paint will give a well aged look to your work. Cast Your Anchor has a wide range of model paints in the paint colors that you are looking for. We also have a great line of paint brushes and other paint accessories.
Finally, plating of metal parts can add a realistic patina to your work. There are plating solutions available to blacken bright metals like brass, or a solution to apply over copper to give it that greenish patina. There is even a product available to give wood an aged look without staining or painting.
Some builders prefer the natural look and others the stained look. The choice is yours but remember we’re here to offer advice and all the finishing materials you need!
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