Help!!

[David Hathaway]

I would agree with the tips given by peaceglue that the main way to get parts to fit properly is to get them into the right shape first so there are not stresses to cause things to go awry. Use a rounded rod pressed into the inside of the hull sides and gently moved back and forth to curve the parts

The other tip I would give would be to think in terms of providing a solid internal skeleton or framework to support the decks and sides. A lot of "European" ship model designs include a longitudinal internal spine and transverse formers (think bulkheads) in an "egg crate" structure. Eastern European designs make this out of 1mm card and it is very solid. "Japanese" designs rely very heavily on the sides and deck having the right shape to fit correctly and hold their shape - they are an utter nightmare to get right if you have limited skill in card modelling. I routinely make an internal framework and reinforce the decks if I build one of these designs.

You have made a very good start with getting the hull sides to have what looks like the right shape but without a rigid framework to put them on like a "skin" you will probably get very frustrated. The stern looks great and just needs adjusting and trimming - the bow looks like the main area for problems.

I suggest you download my free model of the Queen of the Isles and Digital Navy's free model of the Admiral Class Escort to see two slightly different approaches to building a skeleton.

Lastly I would glue the bottom of the ship to a temporary base while you are building it - this will keep everything square and reduce any tendancy to twist or "give" as you glue things in place.

I have some more tips on my web page that may help.

Regards

David Hathaway
Paper Shipwright
Paper Shipwright – Card models from the UK

[David Hathaway]

Is this the ship you are trying to build?

https://nzshipmarine.recollect.co.nz...w/725#idx20808

She looks like an interesting subject.

David

[MarkJ]

Thanks David, will have a look at your models.

Yes that is the Wanaka I'm atempting to build.

Still have to finish my first model. Just waiting for stuff to arrive.
Covid 19 is ruining deliveries.