Model kits

A kit gives you the parts and the plans, not the finished object. If you would rather buy something already built, our ready made display models arrive complete. If you want the build, this is the right section.

What is in a wooden model ship kit

Most kits here are built around a laser cut plywood keel and bulkhead frame, planked in lime, walnut or similar strip timber, then fitted out with brass, cast metal and turned wooden fittings. You get the timber, the fittings, full size plans and a build manual. Glue, paint, varnish and tools are almost never included, which catches out most first time builders. Those are stocked separately in tools and accessories.

Choosing by difficulty

Our kits are graded from Beginner through Easy, Medium, Hard and Advanced to Professional, and the grade matters more than the picture on the box.

• Beginner and Easy. Simpler hull construction, fewer parts, little or no rigging. A short, finishable project and the right place to start if you have never planked a hull.
• Medium and Hard. Double planking, more deck furniture, standing and running rigging. The range most returning builders work in.
• Advanced and Professional. Full rigging, gun ports, carved decoration and parts counts running into the thousands. Months of work, and unforgiving of early mistakes.

If you are buying a kit as a gift, err downwards. A kit that is too advanced tends to sit in a cupboard.

Browse by vessel

The sub categories split the range by subject: historical and tall ships, classic yachts and boats, barges, trawlers and tug boats, fishing boats, naval vessels, liners and cruise ships, passenger boats and trams. If you want the kits that sell most consistently, start with best selling kits.

Static or radio controlled

Some kits are display builds only. Others are designed with the hull volume and access needed for a motor and radio gear. Where a kit supports conversion it is listed under RC compatible as well, and the electronics are bought separately.

Common questions

Which model ship kit is best for a beginner?

A small hulled subject with a simple rig, graded Beginner or Easy, ideally under about 50cm finished. It teaches planking without committing you to months of rigging.

What tools do I need to start?

At minimum a sharp modelling knife, fine abrasives, a pin vice, plank clamps, a plank bender and a wood glue. A tool bundle covers most first builds in one order.

How long does a wooden ship kit take to build?

A beginner kit is a few evenings to a few weeks. A mid range kit is a few months of regular work. A professional grade tall ship can take a year or more, most of it rigging.

Do you sell display cases for finished kits?

Yes. Our display cases come ready made and flat pack, and a case is the only practical way to keep dust out of finished rigging.