Hi Captain,
You can see the build log for HMS Rupert in the Warships page above this page. I got as far as preparing to plate the hull plug when I decided to get a sailable model (HMS Ready) completed for use (Delays caused by issues with bloomin grub screws:O( .
I have decided to scrap the plug/GRP mould idea as I based the hull design on drawings in Janes, which are not 100% accurate, so will complete her as a semi scale sailing model by glassing the exterior and cladding before hollowing her out and fitting the gizmos.
Early turret ships are quite nice to build because the later ones were built without much top hamper compared with later ships. Indeed some of the ships converted from cut down square riggers would make a good beginners project.
If you are after such a project, then early Janes drawings will give you a basic starting point though havng images of a half model or ships model will help with 3dimentional reference to get the tumblehome and transition from hull to stem and stern quite accurate.
Burts book 'Warrior to Dreadnought is also quite useful and has some good photos to get you on the right track when doing further research.
Another reference to look at for inspiration is Pete Subman's build page 'Semiscale Borodino'. I am now intrigued to see what loveliness you go for