Written in an engaging, conversational style, this comprehensive guide leads the reader through every aspect of ship modeling, from how to scale-down plans and what glues and paints to use, to how to build a ship model in a bottle and where to turn for more help.
Having recently purchased my first model, the Scottish Maid, from Artesania Latina, I decided after looking the plans over that I was going to need more in depth help and assistance. After researching online I have discovered that there is quite a decent literary safety net regarding the subject, but as usual it's a case of where to start?
Well after leafing through this book in relative depth I have found a brilliant place for the Ship Modeling neophyte to make their start. The work gives a great overview of the many complex areas involved in the longtime craft of Ship Modeling as well as gently leading the enthusiast into the greater intracacies involved therein. I was delighted among other chapters to find a section on Ships in Bottles, one of my fascinations, as well as informative tips and tricks regarding all manner of applications from planking to seizing lines and rigging.
I found the sections on Running Rigging, Proportions of Rigging, Making Masts and Sails for Sailing Ships a revelation, which has totally whet my appetite for exploring singular works dedicated to these subjects alone. Roth does a great job of keeping the language simple and with a little observation of the diagrams, which are easy and clear, most questions left wanting in the text are answered. I only wish this work had more colour plates of ships in the building and completion stages, which is why I have witheld the final star.
Apart from this small omission I can wholeheartedly recommend this work to the novice and enthusiast alike as it has enlightened and informed me as well as fueling my passion for this noble craft more than ever! So if you want to know where your mizzen is and how to rig your gaffs; if you care to know how to set the rake of your masts or find out what box off is all about, then get 'Ship Modeling from Stem to Stern' and quit your blatherin land lubbers!
There are hundreds of illustrations and photos. The writing is good, plain and clear. Each chapter is preceeded with a famous quote from history that will amuse and apply. I don't know much about building ships, but after this book, I feel that I have a good handel on it. The detail contained is very good, maybe even more then you'll want. The chapter on naval cannon alone is pretty stunning.
I'll tell you, get this book, get your favorite wooden ship model, then go to town. Mr. Roth has certainly increased my joy with this hobby!! FEAR NOT!!
