A short while ago we took delivery of a rather nice old model in need of some TLC.
The model at first glance and after carrying out an assessment looked in fairly good shape, the first task was to make some notes for future reference before work commenced.
The first task was to very carefully clean the model’s deck and hull area before carrying out all the repairs to the deck area including several fittings some of which were replaced with new ones to enhance the detail, with the deck area now cleaned I moved onto checking the masts and yards making sure they were secure.
Once the basics had been completed, I then moved onto removing the old rigging and making new blocks where required so the new rigging could be attached.
When it comes to re-rigging this type of model, I follow a strict method firstly by adding all the shrouds and ratlines (not required on this model) followed by the forward and back stays thus locking all the masts securely into place I then moved onto the yard braces starting with the foremast lower yard and working upwards and towards the mizzen mast.
After a few days the new rigging was completed and could then be stained for the aged effect to enhance the end result. The final job was to then carefully check over the model before returning to it to its owner. Overall, this model was a pleasure to work on knowing the model was going to be appreciated in the future.
