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[newbe7]

I am in the process of looking for information on doing a new model boat I have ordered a set of plans for a side paddle wheeler (Maid of the Loch) looking for any help on doing the hull are there do's and don'ts for this is it better in wood or styrene .
Rick

[TailUK]

There are so many ways of approaching hull building that it's hard to be definitive about the best method.  My advice, read everything you can get your hands on!  The model boat magazines usually have at least one build article every month.  There are many books about hull building and the Internet is full of websites about model boat building.  If you have a local model boat club go along to their sailing days and see what other builder have done.  Choose a method that suits your means, if you have limited building space you may want to avoid a method that involve a lot of mess but, most importantly,  read as much as you can.

You might want to check at this website;   http://www.paddleducks.co.uk/smf/index.php   it's specifically about paddlers.

[ballastanksian]

Have a browse of the specialist rooms here and also the masterclasses for some examples of different methods of building. All methods have their specific skill sets within a standard set of skills required. We have some very talented modfellers here and their work never fails to inspire me.

Whichever method you choose, do put some progress shots up of your  build:O)

[Brian60]

More to the point, what is your skillset? By this I mean are you good at working with timber? good with grp (fiberglass) or epoxy? You have to ask yourself what you would be happy working with, then plan your build around those mediums.

For instance if you know grp inside out, then you would know which materials to build the plug from to lay up a mould to lay up the final hull. If its timber then reading up on how to produce the frames to add the outer cladding to is the next step. etc etc etc.

THE MOST IMPORTANT step, by far is to remember, if you get stuck don't be afraid to ask a question!

[BarryM]

Brian,
If this is the same 'Maid of the Loch' -  http://www.maidoftheloch.org/    - then you may find assistance here when you get going.

Barry M

[TailUK]

Getting well versed in the literature will help identify the most suitable method.  As you read the method that fits with your skillset will emerge.