by Ulrich Guenther
Categories:
- Build type: [Kit][Model Shipways]
- Material: [Wood]
- Scale: [1:96 (1/8" = 1')]
- Subject Type: [Break-Bulk]
- Era: [1815-1914]
- Nationality: [United States]
- Propulsion: [Sail]
About the Vessel
Volante was a merchant brig designed by William Webb (founder of the Webb Institute of Naval Architecture) and built in 1853 in New York. She sailed on the “triangular trade” route between New York, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean.
Model Images
About the Model
Only 4 items were used from the kit:
- solid hull (planked over)
- scored decking sheet (used for deckhouse paneling)
- windlass and some blocks (3mm downsized to 2.5 and 2mm).
Woods used:
- holly
- Swiss pear
- degame
- walnut, basswood.
Commercially available fitting were added:
- copper plates
- anchors
- blocks
- deadeyes
- bullseyes
- rigging line (0.1-0.5 mm)
- chain
- belaying pin
- ships wheel (a kit by itself)
- yard trusses
Photo etched name plates on bow and name decal on stern are scratch made. All deck structures are scratch build including bilge pump, windlass pump mechanism, ship’s bell, captain’s gig (plank on frame) as well as chain plates, masts, yardarms, tops, parrel beads, etc.
Fly fishing hooks were used to obtain very small eyelets for blocks, jackstay eyebolts, and other uses. Hooks and rings were made using 0.3 and 0.4 mm brass rods, copper strips. Brass tubing was used for mast and yard arm bands, yard arm caps, studding boom irons, and goose neck.
Modifications: Added second rail to quarterdeck, changed angle of forestay with added deck lugs due to space limitations.
References
- The Masting of American Merchant Sail in the 1850s: An Illustrated Study, by William Crothers