Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Working Vessels => Topic started by: RobH on November 16, 2018, 11:34:52 am

Title: Restoration of vintage model yacht
Post by: RobH on November 16, 2018, 11:34:52 am
A pond yacht built by my great uncle before WWI is languishing in a rather tired state needing some restoration. Mast, boom, bowsprit, cabin and cleats exist. Rudder missing and sails rotted. Sail diagram available.
Looking for someone local to Birmingham who could bring this family heirloom back to its former glory.
Title: Re: Restoration of vintage model yacht
Post by: birlinn on November 17, 2018, 09:24:42 pm

Looks interesting.
I restored one in a similar condition for a friend; pic enclosed. It had a lot of rather nicely made metal fittings, and may have been a kit. I would guess it dates from the 1920's- does anyone recognise it?
Re your model- why not have a go yourself?
Title: Re: Restoration of vintage model yacht
Post by: roycv on November 18, 2018, 06:46:38 am
Hi that looks like an interesting job.  I am not offering my services due to having just restored a small yacht and have 3 more yachts waiting to be done plus two more on the back burner.  That is apart from three electric powered model boats.  I should live so long!
The suggestion that you have a go yourself is relevant if you have any handicraft skills at all.  You never know what you can do until you try.  If you learn on the job the forum will always come up with help.
The fact that you recognise the boat needs fixing is a good start, it may look a lot to do but it will all break down into small jobs that will all come together in the end.  The sails can always be put out for professional making, as good sails make a tremendous difference, not all that expensive either.
Perhaps you could contact a local club for advice on how to proceed?  You may find someone willing to do a bit of work to give you a start.
Best of luck, hate to see a good model abandoned and thrown out.
Roy