What is the best way to shape a model boat out of a block of wood?
I am interested in creating some model boats (more abstract than literal representations) to showcase some sails I have crafted but am not sure of the best way to achieve the curves and angles needed for the hull outline. I have an angle grinder (which I have not yet tried) which I think will remove the wood quickly but I’m sure I’ll make a hash of it if I just start grinding away. How do you make sure the sides are even and the lines are straight? It seems like carving it might be the only option but I have no experience with that and it would probably take forever. Any tips would be appreciated!
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To start off with, do you have the lines or the profile of the hull? Now you are asking, “What are lines or profiles”? This is the shape of the hull to allow it to sail thru the water. Lines are the shape of the hull, both fore and aft, along with the curve of the hull from the deck down to the keel. Lines are drawn by the draftsmen to allow the ship maker to make the hull. Profiles are the sections that show the shape of the hull from looking from the front and from the stern. As far as cutting, leave the grinder alone, you will make a mess. You can get away for the heavy areas, but the fine shaping needs to be done by hand. How big are you looking to make? Are you doing a half hull or the whole thing? You can google hull shapes and get some to look at and give you some ideas. Your local library, in section 628 has books on hulls.