This video compilation documents the Coppering of the hull of an 18th Century ship of war, the HMS Snake c.1797. It took about 300 hours and 700 plus copper plates to complete the covering of the hull and rudder in real copper plates. Next will be the painting of the hull, then rigging of the ship.
Copper plates without exception were not laid "whole" at the waterline. Each plate was cut at the required angle at the waterline to follow the run laid down at the keel. The book "China Tea Clippers" is one of many, many books available for reference. It is one that you have chosen yet you have not followed that information. There are hundreds of people out there who make such models without title and do an excellent job, as a model "shipwright" you should get this simple procedure correct.
BuffersYeoman 9 months ago
Very nice! I have only done a few coppered hulls and I have vowed never to do another one! I am in my 60's now and I am afraid they are too much for my patience. Oh well! Such is life. Anyway. . . nice job on the "Snake" bubba. I am working on a scratch built Revenue cutter (waterline) model now so no copper !!
PoppaTom1948 1 year ago
Great stuff. I have a model of the Cutty Sark, which my Grandfather gave to me, as a young boy. I'm 40, now, and think I could almost do it justice, and start it.
criticalmass181 2 years ago
Very informative. Thanks.
hjones1 3 years ago
I've never tried the copper hulls, only paint so far but this is a good indication of the way to go. Great!!
BluenoseModeler 4 years ago
What do you recommend for beginners who want to build a tallship? And how were the copper plates actually fastened? I gotta say this just BLOWS my mind. it's incredible!!
Ironhorsexpress 4 years ago
nice work as usual very cool.
bentsynth 4 years ago