Showing posts with label news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label news. Show all posts

Friday, July 9, 2021

H.M.S. Prince -The Final Modification/ Rex Stewart


It is not surprising to find builders frustrated when it comes to rigging. In my forty-plus years as a professional, this was (and is) one of the principle subjects many have been at odds with. Not just with themselves, but with other professionals and hobbyists.

Many will argue that 'sailing' ships are not attractive with sails because it 'hides' rigging. Yet one of the main factors for this system remains to be the 'sails'! And there is a method for bringing out the best in any model once the science is studied and worked upon. It doesn't happen overnight...And for those who claim they have expertise with this after building a few pieces; well that assessment is void.

Another argument/debate that comes to mind is the theory that ships were built without blueprints. That shipwrights calculated 'everything' in their head. That is sheer foolishness -and not to be embraced by anyone with commonsense. However, this is part of the maritime circles that continue this 'theory'.

Blueprints are the essence of the builder. Without them nothing is accomplished.

History, unfortunately has a universal way of hiding truth and I realize that the only viable way to discover (truth) is to divorce the politics and focus on the purity of research. Real answers are found when biases are quelled. One of the reasons I produce some of the most exciting models today is primarily due to sound doctrine and research from the sources I investigate. 


In this image, the rigging is not obscured by the sails...


Nor in this image.

Below, I show the dynamics of sail setting -where the variations bring realism to the subject. It's in this artificial form that my viewers (and collectors) find the perfect balance. However, this is predicated on research as to how ships appeared in wind under full and/or partial sail. 




With this focus in mind, I return back to rigging tables -exploring areas of rig that I found questionable relative to belay systems; especially at the quarter and mizzen decks. There seem to be much confusion in these two areas

There exist no drawings and/or paintings that clearly defines this. And of the contemporary work(s) I reviewed, I wasn't able to acquire correct fall lines that were compatible to the ship's design. That alone, pushed me to rewrite the script concerning their true location(s) from a logical stance. Of course I tossed 'debates' to the wind because those were distractions which was based on "cognitive dissonance". And of such I have, nor take no part.


In this image I am resizing the plastic lateen sail which I will later customize from treated paper. I am also locating the various rigging points on this sail to transfer to the custom sail so that the lines will fall accurately to the belays pins on deck. Much of my concern are on the brail system, as I have not found any satisfactory model showing this to be compatible to the Prince design. There had to be leeway and room for hauling up this large sail so not to conflict with the large topsail above it.

Percival Marshall's 1937 plan is the best reference that makes any sense to this perculiar design of the poop and quarter decks. From his perspective, it made sense that the forward brails would lead from the spar to the last shroud and down to the belay pin rail 'within' the ship -not on the actual top rail as seen on many contemporary models. Builders are not taking the time to assess scale to embrace this truth. Percival , being notably famous for his engineering proved this finding to be correct...and it is shown on my model, in kind.


This waterline view show the lateen sail set in a swift breeze with the forward brails leading through the blocks and connecting with the blocks on the last shroud. Notice that there are no pins on any of the rail area at the main mast to the stern area where the ensign is flying.


Port stern profile showing the brail leads to the main shroud. The lateen mizzen sheets also fall to the pin rail within the quarter deck bulwarks (away from the guns). Based on scale, it would be impossible for crew to reach and effectively secure these lines to pins on top of the bulwark. However, at the forecastle such was possible as I have shown in prior images.


Before rigging is complete, gallery windows are prioritized; especially since some lines will conflict with gold leaf in those areas where shrouds, sheets, lanyards and braces are located. Not to mention the backstays and halyard tackles.


Here the gallery windows are displayed in good order -placed and readdressed with gold leaf. 



As aforementioned, lines should not conflict with each other -leading through and around the tops down to their proper pins without fouling (as shown in this image). Also, based on the railing system (and scale)...notice the pinrails at the companionway before the stairs. The lines are clean and fall there without fouling. Furthermore the scale of the bulwark rails are too high for any crew member to actually secure a line. In Admiralty models much of this is ignored -or was never considered, being that the primary focus was on the structure of the ship. This is conclusive based on the many profile drawings stored in museum archives. None show total belay processes (of any kind) from that era.

Even when VASA was raised, there were no factual documentation(s) conclusive to her rigging...None. Every aspect of rigging was actually explored in the 19th century and pieced together by scholars who visited various museums/libraries to obtain 'limited' data. These facts can be validated by another contemporary builder in his quotation below:



This builder place emphasis on the PRINCE model at the Science Museum in England. From his perspective it is worthy; but from a rigger's point of view, one has to question the findings... And, I duly agree from a curatorial view, misguided information should not be passed on to any generation seeking truth. It's wrong.

Below are the final images of the PRINCE which conclude this build. There will always be PRINCE models which will differ in presentation. No one model can claim accuracy; that's a fallacy. However, each model has its place because of its reputation -and this piece is no different. I just brought it to another level based on my experience and research. So now, I provide you, the viewer, these finale images.


 









As a professional, I take my work seriously which is shown in each and every model I produce. I take no shortcuts, but rather place as much detail possible in these work(s). This model is no exception.

For those who appreciate and seek this type of art, I can be reached at Caseships@yahoo.com or by phone 1-774-757-7137.

Thanks for viewing! 








 







  
 




Monday, April 26, 2021

British Warship HMS Prince -Art Of Modification/Part Five



 


In my last blog I spoke about not being too consumed in a build. It's always good to walk away when the mind touches upon frustration. Others will argue that it's 'healthy'...but there are consequences when attempting to force a thing.

I know only a few will heed my advice, and this will only rob those who are proud to not really digest what I'm writing. I didn't get here to this level shucking peanuts; I got here because I was 'willing' to read the literature of my forerunners to get the schematics of the process. I threw away the vanity and the politics to embraced the method and techniques. That's how hungry I was to be one of the best in what I do.

The above image show the detailed bow and anchor arrangement of the Classic Series -Airfix HMS Prince. The colors are subtle and not overworked -lending more attention to details while the goldleaf absorbs the viewer. Goldleaf doesn't overpower the model, but rather introduce a natural balance that the eye can absorb.

Below is my wood sculpted diorama titled "The Admiralty" which shows Phineas Pett among other subjects viewing and discussing a build for one their ships. It was one of his designs that brought the  H.M.S. Prince to sea.


Now that we're past the concepts of the hull, it's time to move on to the masts and rigging. Such is a complicated subject to discuss and I won't waste any time 'there'. My sound advice relative to it is simple: research, read, and research again. That's the jewel of ALL jewels -the ability to read and cipher between fact and fiction. The quality of my builds stem from the desire to compete with self. There is no good in competing with another; you take on their burden while attempting to finish yours. Also, don't make comparisons...just be honest about your assessments for which to make a point.

I made mention in one of my earlier blogs, that belay points were carefully studied before permanently securing the apparatus that was used for rigging this type ship. Furthermore, the locations had to be featured both on the masts/yards (and decks) where the falls would not foul the lines. In the process I noticed that the garnet tackle was wrongfully rigged on the top rail of the main deck. The scale would not place it there, but rather on the deck with a bitt piece (and ring bolt) which would secure the lower hooked block of the garnet. I found that the lashed spars would conflict with this tackle, so I made alternate bitts (port and starboard) and placed this apparatus portside.

In future photos I will show this detail...


 Another oversight was location of the fore course tack lines. I must concede that I flawed in my earlier builds of this vessel. Some experts stated that my lead and fall was accurate, but after seriously pouring over the plans, I realized I was just executing another fine-looking model. In this image I made bitts forward of the mainstay deadeyes for which to take on and secure the course tacks. This would in no way foul the other principle lines leading to their correct pins.

Below a model of the ST. GEORGE, 1701.... show those course tacks belayed in the same area. So, in essence, this is correct. As long as the lines are not overlapped on the same belay pin, the builder is fine. However, I did find that the topgallant and topsail bowlines overlapped; but those were of the same system and separate from the other functional lines. 


With that information secure, I'm now ready to rig...

As aforementioned, advance rigging takes much observation and preparation. The key to it all is to get the tackles on the mast (first); followed by the stays. Then, the rigging blocks must be attached as you work those two systems. Finally, the topropes and their tackles...Below are four images showing this process. Also, don't be particular about the outcome of the rigging process. Mistakes will occur; and don't take anyone's opinion as law. Things look good on paper (plans), but the true value of a thing arrives at the conclusion. Just because it's on paper, doesn't make it fact.

Build the model and you will discover your facts as you build. Sound and perfect advice to those who are willing to apply it.


The first application of rigging to PRINCE are the relieving tackles that are seen beneath the tops; followed by the stays. If the stays are applied first, then there's no need to focus on these tackles because it will conflict with the shrouds. Next is the garnet tackle(s) which is carried on the mainmast over the relieving tackles...After these are applied, move on to the stays and the webbed rigging above them known as the crowsfeet. That feature was to prevent the foot of the topsails from chaffing against the stays.


The final process before the shrouds are rigged is the sprit topmast backstay seen at the upper righthand; and the manropes (port and starboard) that lead from the forward bulkhead above the doors to the back stem of the topmast cap in the top...And last, the topmast topropes...and their tackles (that are rarely seen in good models).

The last two images show a partial finish of what I just mentioned -which will conclude in this blog before moving on to Part Six.




There is another important detail that need to be made mention of in the tackle system that can't be avoided. These are the truss tackles -a system of combined blocks and multiple rigging that was used to raise and lower the fore and main yards that were attached to parrels. These parrels expanded (with the help of the truss tackles) as they traveled over the wooldings as they were raised and lowered to the deck.

I've witnessed many builders producing detailed models, but shy away from the important details that would make the model authentic. A properly rigged model is worth its weight in gold.


In this photo I am reviewing details that I either missed, or need to revise. Such notes can be very time-consuming but worth the effort when it's effectively presented. It's not about being scholarly; it's about revealing buried information that go unnoticed...All the more reason these models are sought after by serious collectors.

As I continue to rig, I discover that more belay points/pins are needed. Early kit producers only gave generic/basic rigging leads; but omitted those that were essential to model building -especially on the PRINCE (and other 17th century ships). These lines were the various tackles, topropes, halyards, and proper bunts and leeches. Many models barely feature them -and these were the main systems for keeping the ship operational.

Below, I begin to address the rigging process by placing the miniature blocks on the masts and tops prior to rigging -and then secure the tackles before placing the shrouds.




Here, the tackles are applied, but more must be added. In  most contemporary models tackle falls aren't visible and must be found. The falls must be true to rigging standards relative to where those leads tie off. I've come to find that some of these lines were not on belay pins (as such) but on eyebolts with blocks that were in tackle form which were belayed on the lower rigging of those blocks -as shown behind the mainmast next to the companionway.

The image below show the early stage of shroud rigging...


Another application that I apply before continuing with the shrouds is rigging the jib. I usually draw out a rough sail schematic in lue of making a decision on how best the model will look to the viewer. I attempt to keep it authentic by mimicking sail formations on contemporary photos. However, I don't copy them to the letter, as such; but apply the basic generics (with my thought process) to give a more dramatical flow of canvas as if the ship was before the wind....But the process begin with the lead sails. The flow starts there.


 Here, I begin with the jib. I tried to make it as realistic as possible which included the folds and reefing.


Another common detail that seem to evade 17th century shipmodels are the crisscrossed lines on the lower and upper shrouds shown in this image. These were essential for strengthening the shrouds and were called catharpins. It seems difficult to rig these, but if the steps are applied faithfully (with concentration), it's fairly 'easy'.

 

I now leave the viewer with this image of the progress. However, I must be clear relative to these type models. Understand that there are no absolutes with the rigging process of these ships except that the applications were basic and true to the writings of the forerunners. It's those writings that I followed to conclude my spin on the process.

Over the years curators have falsely claimed that the rigging on the Prince was done during the time of the build; but the fact of the matter was when the actual model was purchased by the Kensington Science Museum in 1895 it was unrigged. The rigging was done in 1898 but wasn't found satisfactory and was subsequently redone correctly some years later. Yet, the question remained regarding belay systems that seem to have evaded those scholars of that time.

That being said, one can only speculate (with experience) where those systems began and ended on the conclusion of the lines themselves. So it's only fair to not assume but work those belay points where those lines would seem efficient for the crew member to work. I've done this to the best of my ability with all these models to the satisfaction of my collectors and scholars in the field.

Of course I've faced unprecedented scrutiny in the process, but that usually comes with the territory of painstaking research. This is what make my work what it is and I continue to push it forward with purity, not politics.

Airfix was true in designing this kit with what limited information it had -and I must concede that those engineers and draftsmen/women did a fine job of it. But with further global information, this model brings to bear even deeper revelations which, in part, make my work rare.

I appreciate the follow and hope you will be ready for 'Part Six' of this series.

Thanks for viewing!

  

 




 





Monday, February 15, 2021

H.M.S. Prince c.1670 -The Art Of Modification/ Rex Stewart


This portside view defines the beauty of this popular kit that was introduced in the mid 1960s. It is a current build that was to have been part of the trilogy series I started in 1980. Before pursuing scratchbuilding work, I acquired plastic kits for this academic study. In them I could experiment with different applications such as using custom made parts made of wood, metal, and various fibers to get certain details I researched from publications...The first such experiment began with the Airfix Classic Series model SAINT LOUIS of 1626.


Here in this in this 1980 news image, I am working on the Airfix Saint Louis c.1626 that was part of the Classic series -and the first to be part of the 'trilogy build'. The British company was producing outstanding sailing ship models at the time and it was my desire to build three models of its Classic Series edition to show (in detail) the rigging types of the 17th century. To accomplish this I needed the best references -and because I couldn't afford them, I reached out to the business community to assist.

I had already attained support from the Jewish girls at the University I attended as an art student relative to stain/varnish applications -along with the technique of gold leafing. So, it was just a matter of time before I could get this quality of workmanship exposed to the general public. Twenty years later these models were acquired by collectors for their intrinsic beauty thanks, in part, to that culture.

The book that is shown in the photo is the ever-so-popular "The Ship" by author Bjorn Landstrom. I used his illustration of Saint Louis and two other references to complete the build. So detailed was this plastic kit that those who visited wanted to purchase it. I enjoyed it for a few years and finally released it -placing on hold my ambition of completing the "Airfix Trilogy".

  


Upon releasing the SAINT LOUIS to an area businessman/collector, it would be 41 years before I would, again, get the opportunity to finish the 'trilogy'. Last year I searched every corner of the internet for a vintage H.M.S. PRINCE model -having finished both ROYAL SOVEREIGN (Sovereign of the Seas) and the Airfix WASA. Those models were gifted to me by a local woman whom father took ill and recommended her to locate and phone me of his inventory.

At first I didn't see the total picture of the acquisition until I finished both kits, then the revelation came. It was the appointed time to engage the trilogy again, applying to it the new and updated skills I developed. Both SOVEREIGN and WASA was well received via the internet; and of those few who witnessed the builds in person, the expression on their faces became the testimony. It was then that I knew the trilogy was an assignment to be completed.

The above photo is the Airfix Classic Series H.M.S. PRINCE that I received last year.

 With anticipation, I carefully opened the box and studied each piece - writing notes concerning what I would keep and/or discard in the build. I also evaluated what wooden replacements would be handmade in place of those pieces discarded. However, before the build was to begin, I had to copy my former projects SOVEREIGN and WASA by way of preparing new rigging diagrams.


Here, I correct notes to update rigging. I studied various Prince models, both museum and professional  -including kits...finding that additional lines were omitted for the sake of clarity. I have always been thorough in research and build. This newer PRINCE was no exception.

I had the good fortune of building two PRINCE models some years ago (from scratch); one a large cutaway and the other a 1/16 scale miniature. In the miniature I applied minute detail that invited  serious collectors of which it was finally released to a Texas businessman whom eventually commissioned other miniatures to compliment his collection.


                         Working the large scale 1:12 Prince Cutaway during my early years.


                                 Detail closeup of miniature PRINCE fully rigged 1/16 scale.

The next photos show the process of how I address the hull. It's time-consuming but well worth the investment to carefully assess all the pieces of the kit. I noticed the deep grooves that was supposedly meant to highlight the planks; but it's vital to know that no such grooves existed on these vessels. Planking was tight -and the same is true for the decks. The grooves are raised -and it would make for a more realistic, attractive model if the decks are partially sanded or replaced with actual wood decking. For these models I chose to replace the plastic with wood.

Below are two photos showing my application of wood filler to the grooves prior to sanding. Normal drying time for filler would be 24-48 hours before working the hull. During this time I returned to the blueprints to study and alter deck furniture arrangement, which included the stowed boats. The schematics would be rough drafts until I got more involved with the build; it would then require more  accurate details. But for the moment my focus remained on the drying filler. 




After the filler was dry (and sanded to the touch), a soft bristle brush was usedt absorb the debris  I blew away as I wiped in a front to back motion. This is best because it will give some idea as to whether or not another application is needed. The gunports were cut out during the drying stage as I held each hull piece with a paper towel. In doing this, hand oils are prevented from marring the surface -leaving it clean for smooth painting. As a result the paint colors are richer and look realistic with a patina finish. 



Beautiful is an understatement relative to the galleries of PRINCE. Of course there were a number of impressive looking British ships of those times, but because of the general population voting on this ship -based solely on visual perception, the Airfix engineers wasted no time perfecting this detail. And as such, I took it another step further by carving away the excess and added more by way of adhesives and parchment.

With those additions more detail was achieved by cutting away the gallery windows to later add acetone windows as shown in the supporting image.


The next process was for me to quickly go over the interior to decide what modifications would be worked first. I knew the bow had to be addressed. However the interior was equally important since I had to revise the gun barrels in proper scale to fit the ports...Past this, I moved on to the bow.

I would consider the bow the most challenging area of the ship, simply because more rigging runs there than in any other place. Much of the area is tight, but can be successful to rig provided it's not rushed; especially for 17th and 18th century ships. As for design details, I make every attempt to keep it scale-friendly. In otherwords, drafting figurine images/ deck furniture to use as a template for custom work. Below, I'm carefully routing into the plastic -imitating the detail that is featured on the museum model at the Kennington War Museum in England. Also, I've modified the figurehead with a few added details which appears in the second image.




On the issue of techniques...

Often I receive requests concerning my applications to both scratchbuilt and kit assignments. And frankly, I don't share that information because each artist/craftsman has a special gift that is solely unique unto that individual. I can't say this enough. It's one thing to clone a subject matter, but another to usurp one's identity to it with similarities.

I encourage potential artistans to find their own path and explore (with research) their own gift. It's easy.

Now that I've cleared the air, I move on to the next process which will be featured in 'Part Two' of this series. There will be unspeakable details that will alter how future modelbuilders will view this subject...whether it be from a kit such as this, or created from scratch. Whatever the medium, the subject will still 'float' the same. The name will still be the same. The only change will be overlooked details.

It's been a pleasure introducing this vintage kit that was introduced on the market nearly 60 years ago. There are still many unbuilt kits in existence which should be considered 'built' and viewed for enjoyment as they were intended. For this, I raise my glass to the early engineers and draftsmen who designed this model. It is, and was one of the masterpieces of the day and I'm fortunate to be able to bring it back as part of my trilogy to Airfix.

Thanks for viewing!

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Art Of Rigging The 1:144 Scale VASA/ Rex Stewart


Here we are ...the second and final phase of this build -VASA's rigging.

In this segment the standing rigging, along with the tackle systems will be covered. For this, it is important to zone in on what's written concerning this process and/or area of build...I must have said this a thousand times over the years for builders (novice and professional) to not rush their projects for acceptance, but to evaluate (and re-evaluate) their research to make sure ALL the i's are dotted and all the t's are crossed. Especially in the rigging phase.

I have read several contemporary blogs regarding both plastic and wooden kits relative to the impossibility of rigging miniature models with the same amount of detail as their larger counterparts. That incorporating miniature detail to these smaller models (both in hull and rigging) would distort the scale -and that the quality would be compromised to those kits that were readily prefabricated. Not true, because the beautiful word 'modification' bring into existence, by way of research, the probability of achieving the best in any kit.


The first criteria to good rigging is good planning...

Here, I just finished a partial rigging table for VASA.

Rigging tables can be beneficial for both present and future use, especially when possible clients request a second or third build from the original. Every artist/builder has their own style and/or method that makes a work a 'signature'. A work of art that is easily identifiable by a discerning buyer and/or collector...Finally, since builders have their own interpretations, it is best that such information be safeguarded.

For years I have researched and re-worked rigging tables based on the studies of others and have discovered more details that have enriched my line of work.


After finishing rigging tables, sails are bent to how I want them featured. For this particular model I want to make the sails appear wind-blown. This will take a lot of engineering to make paper appear cloth-like. Also, to have the lines appear realistic in their fall/belay locations. Here, in the backdrop of the sails, I show a rough pre-sketch used to support the actual configuration(s).

Notice that all blocks and lines are added to both sail and yard(s). This procedure make it easier for the rigging process to move smoothly. One sail can take a day to produce and rig... Sometimes two to three days as shown in the photo images below which depict the main course sail.


Main Course Sail...front view.


Main Course Sail...rear view


Blocks and tackles...tackles and blocks -one of the areas of build I found to be most challenging (to the testing of patience)...In the image below, the miniature blocks and tackles illustrate how awesome a model can become. To make this happen I utilize my personal tools dubbed the "rigging chopsticks". These were made to perform a jeweler's style art to the rigging as shown in the two photos below:


Applying the blocks and silk lines using "rigging chopsticks".

In the above images, progressive results can be seen with the use of these sticks...and the detail becomes  'front and center' for quality. This instrument is not only capable for securing rigging lines (in perfection), but can also assist with the gentle curvature of lines in areas where it seem impossible to reach.


Billowing effects show the gentle curves on the spritsail edges and sheet lines. Also in the lower photo image, details are shown in a deck closeup of belayed lines and coiling-a result from using the "chopsticks".



Here, another angle showing sheet and tack lines hanging loosely to simulate realism.



Starboard bow showing the attached bowlines on the forecourse -along with the tacks and sheets. Once these lines are established, it is here where patience run its course... Again, the "chopsticks" come into play because none of the lines can be attached with tweezers without fouling existing lines. The long metal point of the sticks are thin enough to get lines through the small areas and be effective enough to secure them to their respective pins. Tweezers only serve to assist those lines.


With the sprit(s) and forecourse sails established (as shown), I now work my way to the flags.

In my most humble opinion, flags can make or break the appearance of a good model. Depending on how a model is presented, it is best to have the flags in unison with the sails. If sails are full and limp, then flags should follow the same pattern. If sails are in a slight or full breeze, then flags should be the same...And finally, when wind push sails back against mast(s), flags should be angled sideways (port or starboard) and/or flying backward. Wind pushing sails forward the mast, sails should be forward or angled sideways in forward position. Former servicemen brought this to my attention when I built commissioned kits during my youth.


This image show the paper flags provided by the Airfix manufacturer. These are not properly scaled for the model; so to correct this, I cut a smaller version and changed the paper thickness -applying the references from Bjorn Landstrom's book concerning his graphics and colorscheme.


Here, the new flags and pennant are fashioned as windswept pieces. By placing these flags on the masts (prior to finishing the remaining sails), gives a visual blueprint on how those sails will be bent based on the formation of the flags.



With the foremast sail and rigging systems in place, I now move on to the mainmast -using photo references to get the proper folds and bends of my sails before applying. This can be a long drawn out process since the sails are paper that can be easily torn or punctured. However, with years of practice, I've been able to achieve realistic settings concerning them.

In my prime as a builder, I studied Asian artists and adopted some of their techniques in my work to get a step higher with miniature projects -especially in the genre of sailing ships. I realized that silk had properties that would later fit into my rigging concepts -and that chopsticks and sandpaper would serve to bring about the very detail I was expecting in ship modeling.

Viewing the images below, the point is proven as I address VASA's mainmast.






In the four above images the main course and topsails are installed...shaped to display a billowing effect in those sails. The last image show the lines secured to the knights and pinrails on deck. These are also secured in the tops to fulfill the assignment of a complete rig.

At best, the latter half of the rigging process is the most difficult because the lines are much tighter together. This is one of the reasons the rigging chopsticks is an invaluable and exceptional tool. I can get immense detailing with it...So now I continue with 'the finish' of the main mast and move on to the mizzen -beginning with the lateen sail shown in the image below.


 This now finalize the last phase of the rigging.

The next blog will feature limited photos on the completed model based on the late Bjorn Landstrom's book "The Royal Warship VASA".  The build has been interesting, to date, because the book brought in depth study of how the ship was built. That, coupled with my research on her rigging made this a unique project of note. So now I close being satisfied that I can encourage other builders (whether hobbyist or professional) to study their kits and make the best of them.

I an not in the business to 'compete'...Never have, never will. My purpose in the maritime is to give insight into the world of shipmodels and take place it on a subtle plateau of visibility so that others can be encouraged to take it to another level of excellence by their choosing.

As for those who have kits that wish to be finished for enjoyment and/or display, I can oblige this. Kindly email me at Caseships@yahoo.com or visit my Linkedin page and supporting youtube page at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rexstewart/ and https://youtube.com/c/RexStewartoriginals . I can also be reached at 1-774-757-7137 for details.

I now leave you, the viewer, with these thoughts and look forward to your next visit on this subject of the Swedish frigate VASA. Fair winds!