Which Wooden Model Ship Making Company Is The Best?

[@antoniomorales3454]

Hi John. I found your post very informative, thank you. My father is 85 yeas old and Spanish, born in Melillia. He has done three models from Artesanía Latina, he loved doing them and did a great job. From your views I will now get a Constructo kit and see how he likes it. Best Regards.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi Antonio! I am glad that i was able to help you. I recommend to try the OcCre models, are far better than the Constructo ones.

[@antoniomorales3454]

Many Thanks

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@antoniomorales3454 Anytime :)

[@lsadikoglu]

You are absolutely right about your assessment of the Amati, their instructions leave a lot to be desired and require a considerable amount of model building experience or understanding of rigging. Artesania has been similarly been a mixed bag for me with missing blocks which I simply substituted from my own stock.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Exactly, me too about Artesania except from the metal pieces, that was a problem. And Amati is for the most experience model makers and the quality of materials are not the best.

[@brianhanington470]

Thanks John. This is a truly helpful video. I’m working now on two OcCre models (HMS Terror and HMS Endeavour) and, honestly, I have to say that these are the best kits I’ve ever seen. The materials are exquisite… not museum quality but only a notch below. The instructions are (mostly) impressive. The photo books that guide the build

[@rogerg6148]

Hi John, very informative......I have already ordered HMS BEAGLE by Occre, (already waiting about 3 weeks) but with all the varied opinions on quality, I was happy to know that you and others recommend Occre.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you my friend! Yes i believe OcCre is the best company for me. The quality is top of the line and it has easy schematics and instructions. Also a very good after sales, they respond very quickly. You won't regret it!

[@brianfoley4328]

I have never built a wooden ship model though I have many years of experience with styrene, resin and mixed media kits. I am retired now and I have time on my hands to build a wooden ship...your video was very helpful, Thank You for making it available.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I am glad that i was able to help Brian! Welcome aboard!!!

[@RichadTheLionHeat]

Absolutely outstanding. Extremely educational, inspiring, encouraging, delightful, relaxing. Very much appreciated. Thank you. 👍🏻⚓️🚢⛴🛳🚤🛥🚤⚓️🚢⛴🛳⛵️👍🏻🇺🇸👍🏻. Sharing with many others. 👍🏻😉

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you very much for your kind words!!!

[@MCPspeed]

Hi, John, great video! Thanks! Artesanía Latina was good, but they moved production somewhere in Asia and it fell down a bit. I am sure you will be very happy when you try Occre. Excellent materials, full colour and detailed instructions. I am currently building "Jabeque Cazador". I got part number 1 twisted due to home heating, used Occre web parts service and waited a couple of weeks. Two weeks later part N.1 arrived together with a wooden plate with the name of the model and my name written on it. Nice gift from Occre! The model is better detailed than the ones from Artesania Latina (I built San Juan Nepomuceno years ago), and the metal parts are superb. I am sure you will enjoy Occre. Please keep on making videos!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you very much for the info about Occre and the kind words!!! I have decided to built Santisima Trinidad and in about a week i will order it from Occre. I have the intention of making a lot of videos for the Santisima, and i believe that Occre's model are of good quality!

[@donaldgoodinson7550]

Thanks John,most informative. I also had problems with Artsania Latina supping to wrong parts. Agent here made good though.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thanks Donald, i believe that this knowledge that comes from experience is good to share.

[@Don_Camillo]

Thank you for sharing of your experiences. I agree that the spanish companies produce excellent quality.👍

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

You're welcome, i hope this video to be helpful. :)

[@genejordan9983]

Thank you for this information. I’m new to ship building and really know nothing. The kit I have is from constructo. So far it seems good quality.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Glad it was helpful!

[@xen70]

What a EXELLENT video for all of us beginners!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you very much!!! Try to begin with OcCre, you will love their models :)

[@xen70]

@@JohnsWoodenShips I have checked them out and I am stocked to do so! I am so happy to have found your channel! There need has been great on YT! Thank you!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@xen70 :)

[@briandocker13]

I have tried a couple of different makes, all foreign. In my opinion the best model kits are by Jotika/ Caldercraft. Very high quality & they are designed & produced in England. Any problems I have experienced have quickly been rectified.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I haven't made a model from that company yet. It seems that the Victory is very good. Is there an e-shop to purchase one as a kit?

[@briandocker13]

John Aliprantis Jotika has their own web site, all kits can be bought on line

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@briandocker13 Thank you for the information :)

[@anthonyxuereb792]

Yes, the English simply do it better because they are smarter. They understand the hobby and the hobbyist and do what's expected. It's not rocket science. It's as simple as that yet some continental brands are stuck in the 50s and 60s.

[@internetapocalypse4885]

I am Spanish and have built many Spanish manufacturer's models- OcCre would be the best. I have also built one Mamoli kit and found them to have poor instructions and finished my model using photos from internet. I have also built Emma C berry and Syren from US companies ....BUT... The best model kit I have ever built (and currently building) is the *HMS Enterprise from CAFModel- Wow what a kit!!!*

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Great to hear more experiences and from other companies as well! Thank you very much!!! I will give you my opinion of OcCre as soon as i have in my hands the Santisima Trinidad, but i believe our opinions will match!

[@a1ar127]

I have built a number of Model Shipways kits, including Emma Berry and Syren mentioned above. In addition, Pride of Baltimore, Willie Bennett, gunboat Philadelphia. For a moderately experience modeler, I cannot recommend enough the Syren. Instructions and plans are the best I have experienced.

[@fredsmith4787]

A very interesting review of kit makers for which, thank you. Regrding Artesania Latina, I am in the process of making their Dutch Zuiderzee Botter, which is supposed to be a beginners' kit: it is ABSOLUTELY NOT for beginners! It is probably the worst kit I have ever made: nothing fits properly and the instructions are appalling, with many of the construction steps in completely the wrong order - something an experienced model builder will recognise, but if a real beginner were to follow them, he or she would end up with a complete mess. Furthermore, the diagrams are almost incomprehensible. That said, the quality of the materials is quite good except that laser-cut parts need a lot of cleaning to remove the burnt edges that result from the laser cutting process. On the other hand, Mamoli's 'Puritan' was probably one of the best kits I have made, so we seem to agree in general!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

That nice to hear. And after i made one kit from OcCre and while i am doing the 2nd one i recommend that you try this company. I believe it's one of the best companies in the field.

[@PiperStart]

Very good video. I have just started the Billings kit of HMS Renown. It looks good, but the wood is only pine and seems cheap.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you very much!!! You should try a kit from OcCre, you will be satisfied with the quality :)

[@mariocisneros911]

Thank you for this wonderful film. Sailing ships frustrated me on the sails and riggings , plus easily breakable and difficult to keep clean. ( never have a cat). So I builded plastic WW2ships .( and a 100 man army with armour and supplies). This made me happy and I built maybe 45 ships when I was 13 to 28.. I became more skilled and satisfied with my projects. Like everyone , I left the hobby to make a living .

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I am glad that you like it! Consider to get into this hobby, it has nothing to do with plastic, it is an entire different world and it is a very joyful one :)

[@andre-dx4yw]

well good video John and i have to agree, i have Artisania and mantua, and occre and the occre Montanes kit is very good quality instructions are clear and the packaging is superb, Mantua are dreadful, Artisania [ Hermione] is ok. I just wish occre did an hms surprise or other British Frigate, the fighting ships are very much spanish biased in there product list. Although i have plenty to do. I do want a british frigate by a good company. Difficult to find!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

You are correct Andre. I would like to build sometime the HMS Victory but i haven't found yet anything that i like a lot.

[@raafatnia]

Thank you so much for sharing your valuable experience 👍🏻

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

My pleasure 😊

[@11dmju]

I built a model by Corel called the Flying Fish, a 2 masted fishing schooner. As a beginner I didn't think I would be able to finish it. I finally did but it was very difficult. The plans were hard to follow and I made a lot of mistakes. That was over 2 years ago. I'd like to start another kit but certainly not one by Corel. This video was very helpful.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I suggest to try OcCre, they have great plans and instructions, top wood and materials quality and very good quality control!

[@kenbadoian2476]

great video, thinking to get into wooden ship modeling, thank you

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you very much Ken! You should and start with a model from OcCre :)

[@kenbadoian2476]

@@JohnsWoodenShips I found a small kit at a garage sale (old stuff). It is a model of a Sharpie Gaff Rigged Sloop by a company called MidWest. Box was yellow with age but all the parts seem to be there. SO it's a start. THank you for getting me interested in wooden ship modeling. I am retired US Navy and have a plaque on my wall, "Oh Lord. thy sea so great my ship so small". I guess in Modeling This is true. Merry Christmas and a Healthy 2021. Ken

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@kenbadoian2476 I am glad that i am one of the reason for you to start this wonderful hobby! I must say i am envy you a little, i love this hobby but i do not have anything to do with the Navy, so i am pretty sure that once you start to build your ships a lot of reality things will come in your mind :) Merry Christmas Ken, and may always be healthy and building model ships :)

[@brianhanington470]

… are great, but the English in the OcCre written instructions are a bit tricky. Yet the fact that both models came with full sail sets artfully made blew me away. And OcCre has a universe of secondary products, including acrylic paints and stains that are excellent. All in all, OcCre is the bright new kid on the block. I really hope you have the same experience.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I am glad that my video and experience were helpful!!! You can't go wrong with OcCre Brian :)

[@kevinmalloy2180]

Thanks! That was very helpful. Am considering Marmoli’s Portsmouth.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I am glad that i was able to help! :)

[@kevinmalloy2180]

Do you know who might sell plans to scratch build (plank on frame) a particular historic ship, say, a brig from the early 1800s? I’m really having trouble finding a good quality plank on frame (pof) model of a two-masted square-rigged 1800s vessel. Most are plank on bulkhead (pob) or solid hull, it seems. Right now, trying to see if Marmoli’s Portsmouth is pof. Sometimes they are mis-advertised I think and are actually pob. Thanks again!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@kevinmalloy2180 No unfortunately i do not Kevin. But from all the comments i have received that last 2 years i can tell you that some Russians build their own models from scratch and i respect that, so maybe in a forum or in a FB group you will get what you search for.

[@kevinmalloy2180]

Thanks again.

[@deathproofpony]

Occre makes beautiful products with good photos and instructions. I have found that Artesania is very inconsistent - a couple of kits I got from them have good instructions and images. But then I got two other models - one of them was missing an entire set of the planks and the other had poorly-translated instructions and grainy pictures, plus a couple of wooden pieces weren't cut out of the sheets properly. Billings seems to make a very good product - I just purchased one of their kits but I haven't started it yet. Overall, I prefer Occre but I keep going back to Artesania for their sheer variety of kits if nothing else.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I couldn't agree more. Artesania has made the Santa Ana kit which until today is the most beautiful model i ever build. But now OcCre is the best company for me :)

[@deathproofpony]

@@JohnsWoodenShips Thanks, John - I have an Occre Terror model I'm hoping to get to in a month or two when I finish my present couple of products. Cheers!

[@snxz1983]

Hi guys, I believe OcCre was founded by former AL personnel. IMHO, old AL kits were good but now I believe the quality has gone quite low (that’s maybe why OcCre makes good models, they keep the old AL spirit). In the end, I think everyone of us has encountered different experiences when building models. For instance, I’m currently building Corel’s Vasa and I believe is gonna be a beautiful build, even with my poor skills. One thing I share with you, though, is the poor instructions the carry but, to me, that’s the beauty of it and, since I’m introducing some modifications, I like to believe is more like a scratch build rather than a kit build. In the end, is just a matter of preference. My experience right now with Corel is being very enjoyable despite of the added difficulties. Cheers!

[@Georgeolddrones]

Excellent video thanks John 👍George in England uk

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

You' re welcome!!! I'm happy that you like it!!!

[@mageva2642]

Γεια σου Γιάννη! Αν κατάλαβα καλά είσαι Έλληνας και χαίρομαι πολύ! Έχω ασχοληθεί και εγώ με τα ξυλινα καράβια. Έχω κάνει τον Μισισιπή, το royal caroline της panart καταπληκτικό κομμάτι, μια ελληνική τράτα και τώρα θέλω να ξεκινήσω την ελληνική τριήρεις. Τα βίντεο σου πολύ ωραία και η δουλειά σου επίσης.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Σωστα εχεις καταλαβει! Χαιρομαι που βλεπω εστω και ελαχιστους Ελληνες που ασχολουνται με αυτο το χομπυ! Σε ευχαριστω πολυ για τα καλα σου λογια! Θα σου προτεινα να δοκιμασεις και καποιο απο τα μοντελα της OcCre, πολυ καλη ποιοτητα υλικων!

[@JohnSmith-zv8km]

Would be interested on hearing your views on Caldercraft and other Jokita series.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I haven't made anything from these, so i cannot have an opinion. Unless i have in my hands a model i cannot say if it is good or bad.

[@dugan6056]

Jotika are good. I wouldn't touch any of the companies mentioned in the video (after 25 years of building!) Billing's have the worst materials. Have you joined Wooden Model Ship Instruction and Support on facebook? There are a lot of experienced (and inexperienced!) builders. Admin will offer the best advice.

[@JohnSmith-zv8km]

@@dugan6056 Thanks for the reply, I will look into your suggestions.

[@briandocker13]

Just finished HMS Victory by Jotika. An excellent kit very well produced with three very good instruction books, many drawings all to scale & many pre cut parts both wood & brass. This kit is expensive, but you get what you pay for

[@JohnSmith-zv8km]

@@dugan6056 Thanks I will look into that suggestion

[@c.n.f5152]

Thanks for the info, i’ll make sure to reference this video when I start making some wooden models. 👌

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I'm glad that you found the video useful! :)

[@anthonyxuereb792]

What about Billings? I built an Artisania kit ages ago and I remember the quality of the wood was very good. I lost and broke some parts over a period of time and they were replaced quite quickly. Kits today should be 100% considering the modern technology available. No excuses.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

My experience in the service of Artesania was the worst. Many emails and months just to get a metallic piece that was missing for a 730 euros kit. The mistakes in instructions, tragic. Missing parts in every kit, you bet. Just the top quality of materials doesn't make it right.

[@anthonyxuereb792]

@@JohnsWoodenShips I agree with your comment about the quality of materials doesn't make up for missing parts and mistakes in instructions and waiting months for action from them. As I said, kits should be 100% and no excuses for anything less. It's a pity they run their business like that.

[@derekhutton9855]

Looking for figure head and stern side windows in metal for my Billing’s kit. 1:50 scale (1:48 would suffice)

[@isabellathecutekitty4340]

I like the one in the bottom left And I want it

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

It's HMS Victory from Cosntructo, one of the most beautiful models!

[@nagashimah-justin5508]

Bro the " Galeotta Greca " really surprises me, its like 2 ships in one. The ships mast and body is the xebec ship with the paddle like a galley

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

It wasn't a good model, low quality of materials, little detail, high price for that.

[@nagashimah-justin5508]

@@JohnsWoodenShips oh I see 😔 the design surprises me 🙂

[@horvathrichard1009]

currently I am building the corel hms victory. all the materials are flawless. I think the problem is with the instructions. I admit that I threw it away and rather rely on the plans and some youtube videos. (would it be so hard to make a construction video by the manufacturer in 2022??? oooeeeaahhh...) it is a high quality kit, but maybe only for experienced builders

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

The one i have build , many years ago, was the worst model ever by far. Nothing compare to OcCre or even Amati. If the materials were any worst the kit would have in a lump of wood and an axe.

[@horvathrichard1009]

​@@JohnsWoodenShips interesting.. possibly a series error? I have seen two corel kits in the box, and the materials were made with the precision like the upper wood strip as you showed at 1:50. all the other parts are well made too. so far, my only problem was that the main body did not fit at first try, but after some postwork on the ribs, and it is OK. If it is possible check corel again. I saw their product first almost 30 years ago, and it is still a high quality stuff

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@horvathrichard1009 Sorry to disappoint you Richard. My one try with Corel will remain one. I prefer OcCre by far, i like to make model ship and to be calm, if i am going to get anxious and mad i won't do it.

[@horvathrichard1009]

@@JohnsWoodenShips that's true.. first impressions ar the most decisive. once again, I really dont know what happened whit that kit, or the series

[@4133EWvianen]

My favourite company is Billing Boats,..........period

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Never made one from them, so i cannot have an opinion.

[@JohnDoe-we8lb]

Sir, I am very interested in starting to build wood ship models. Could you recommend to me a model, supplies and videos to watch so I can begin to build some wood models. If you can suggest any other forum that would be greatly appreciated.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Welcome aboard! Here are 2 complete series : kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZCuh4CfiN51rrc kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYq7eWNpd9mUq80 Here is the on going series : kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKaop56drM1grLc Here are the tools : kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4LYZKWOZZyCidU Add a dremel. And you can start with this one : www.occre.com/model-ship/albatros.html

[@leespiderpod]

Great help thanks 👍🏼

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I am glad that you found it useful!!!

[@briandocker13]

Best wooden ship models are by Jotika. All materials are very good. Drawings are excellent. These are scale models, not polished ornaments shown here. Just finished HMS Victory, I think it is the best on the market. Also made in Britain, no need to import inferior kits

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

You are saying your opinion with no proof.Secondly, you have the nerve to call my work "polished ornaments". When you show your work and your experience then you might get the attention you desire, until then for me your are someone who tries to advertise Jotika and you probably have a personal benefit.

[@briandocker13]

@@JohnsWoodenShips The first model ship I built was the Mayflower by Constucto, I learned a lot & enjoyed the build, but it was not a true scale model. I then purchased the Jotika model of HMS Victory, all parts are made to scale ( not near enough off the shelf ). The colours are authentic, black, yellow ochre, red ochre gun ports, blue & yellow round houses & all masking & rigging is to scale. This is a model approved by the restoration team at Victory. I then built the Victory launch by Panart, another nice model which turned out really well. I am at present building the Jotika model Endeavour, another true scale model with authentic colours & parts ( not off the shelf ). I believe if you visit HMS Victory you will find it is black & yellow, not polished walnut as the Constructo model. I have no vested interest in Jotika, I just appreciate quality

[@ladislavholik9777]

I have recently found some interesting lesser producers which (according to photographs) make ships in great detail, even though I have not tried yet, it is Russian "Master Korabel" and Czech "Dusek".

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I do not know these companies and their models, i have never made anything from them.

[@nh6627]

Ive build a tiny yawl (68mm length) by Master Korabel and the quality of materials as well as the instructions were good. Even at that scale.

[@DoItYourself-DIY]

Nice model ships

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Thank you very much!!!

[@o-b-1]

2:56 Which one?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

The one in the picture, i do not remember it's name.

[@jeffreyrobinson3555]

I don’t have your experience but I found model shipway from America model expo very good. Mu best model today was Rattlesnake by them

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I do not know the company, perhaps it is good, i'll take your word for it. Personally i prefer Spanish companies.

[@jeffreyrobinson3555]

John Aliprantis I understand. I built the Bounty, Bellona and Golden Hind, all were good kits. But I found that one model shipways very good.

[@jeffreyrobinson3555]

I would add that if you found someone your happy with, you sometimes have no reason to change. These kits ain’t cheap in cost or time and before you cough up the cash you want a reasonable expectation that your going to be happy with the out come. I want to thank you for sharing your experience. My needle files and knifes are getting ready to go to work again.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@jeffreyrobinson3555 Thank you very much Jeffrey, it's exactly as you said, you must love the outcome or there is no point on spending money and time, a lot of time!

[@firasmasadeh2854]

I'm halfway through building the artisania latina hms victory and sure enough the kit is missing few parts and the instructions are horrible

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

It is a hard model and not the best kit around.

[@pascalprevost5626]

Hi John Any experience with ZHL ? Thanks

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

No Pascal, i haven't made any model from ZHL and to be honest i never heard anything about their models either. So i cannot comment about their quality or services.

[@dugan6056]

Very good, very advanced, very expensive but you get what you pay for. The plank on frame are highly renowned

[@o-b-1]

Thank you for all your videos! I've built 2 models from Corel that came out well but it was a disaster to build them. Now I'll try Amati for the first time How the quality of material of Amati compared to Corel?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

From my experience Amati's materials were a bit better but don't get too excited. The instructions were far better from Corel. I would strongly recommend to try OcCre, for me it's by far the best.

[@o-b-1]

@@JohnsWoodenShips Thank you!

[@keithcheeseman567]

Thank you for your very helpful and concise video. I am looking to buy my first wooden model ship, i am a medium experienced model maker. Any tips on a first buy wood be most welcome. take care

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi Keith, if you have done some models and you are looking for some upgrade try the Corsair or Beagle from OcCre. They are not hard but not a beginners model. Remember 2 things, wood does forgive mistakes and you have to make them because that's how you are going to learn.

[@keithcheeseman567]

@@JohnsWoodenShips Thank you so much for your reply. I have made many plastic model kits and I am a retired carpenter and used to wood carve and make furniture and kids toys in my spare time, which is difficult now because of arthritis. I miss working with wood and know a wooden model would be ok I just don't know where to start. Your skills and models are fantastic and it's wonderful to watch you in your videos. I have already learnt from them. Thank you for your advice.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@keithcheeseman567 Anytime :)

[@billbrown3643]

Hello John against this is Bill listening to your commentary there on kids I tell you it's too bad that Billings went out of business because for me there would was very good and everything instructions very easy to read it's a shame that that think that company went out of business I think they had a good product

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Never made anything from Billings Bill, so i do not know if they had or hadn't a good product.

[@DARIVSARCHITECTVS]

I think the quality of the wood varies by model as well as manufacturer. I've built Corel's La Couronne and the wood was very good, but the instruction text was next to useless. It seems Corel assumes the builder is an experienced ship model builder and does not provide a step-by-step instruction book to help. You had to work from the drawings only, and there were a few minor errors on them with regard to belaying pin location between the drawings themselves. The blocks were also very crude, and were replaced. The historical accuracy was good in most respects, but changes needed to be made.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I have only made one model from Corel and never tried to do another. In the model i got the quality of materials was like in Amati models, tragic and with the kind of instructions you couldn't understand, Corel got into the bottom of the companies as one of the worst. Probably in another model the quality could be better, i take your word for it but in any case i won't be making Corel models ever again.

[@eddiekulp1241]

Did a model shipways solid hull schooner, my skill not good enough for planked models

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Eventually you will get it right, just don't five up :)

[@yvonnelomax2163]

In The Netherlands: looking for repair craftsman, I have rigging damage on my boat caused by cat...please reach out!

[@sebastiaandonga7678]

In Nederland heb je MMI modelbouw, zij zouden u zeker kunnen helpen aan een adres. Succes!

[@fughkour1793]

I am considering buying a model from artesania latina or occre. I'm thinking about the 1/65 santa maria [artesania latina] or 1/65 Aurora [occre] which one do you think would be easier for a beginner to tackle? thx

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

The Santa Maria looks simple enough but you might have some problems in the hull. The Aurora is more complicated but it is painted so any mistakes could be hidden with wood putty. If you cannot manage the hull go for the Aurora, otherwise the Santa Maria is appropriate.

[@rogerg6148]

Hi John, Are you familiar with "Master Korabel" kits, manufactured in Russia? They have a European supplier in Germany. According to their advertising the kits are of high quality materials.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi! No i haven't heard of them. I know that Russians make kits and good ones but i have heard that all the instructions are in Russian so i never looked into making one. I do not know about Master Korabel company though. To have a supplier in Europe, then probably they have instructions in English too.

[@rogerg6148]

@@JohnsWoodenShips Yes they have "Extensive English building instructions complete the kit "

[@fredausemus549]

@@JohnsWoodenShips M

[@dugan6056]

Good kits.

[@moritzk3004]

Wich ones can you completely recommend for beginners?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I would recommend to check out OcCre. The Spanish companies are the best and this one is top of the line. I'm pretty sure that you can find a model that suits you and it's easy to begin with.

[@moritzk3004]

@@JohnsWoodenShips thank you

[@BigLisaFan]

Start with a basic entry level kit. I would definitely not recommend something like HMS Victory, Cutty Sark, USS Constitution as a beginner model due to the complexity of the hull, fittings and rigging. A schooner similar to the Bluenose may not be too bad a kit. Fairly simple, easier to rig etc. A solid hull model is a good start if you have not planked a model. That can be daunting for a beginner. Read up on it before you jump right in. Good luck and each one is a work of art when finished.

[@vascombvanzeller]

YOu should also try danish BILLINGS for quality

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I am building HMS Victory from Billing Boats right now, take a look at the series, i think you will find it very interesting :)

[@jasonwright3757]

From matuna I got plastic anchors painted to look like cast metal not even the correct colour for the model just as a trick

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

It takes a lot of skills to make plastic look like metal, BRAVO!

[@simonluzuriaga3947]

I have one question, hope you can answer me. I have alredy done three ship models all from Artesanía Latina. And I also have made by my self 5 bottle sized ships. But I want to make another big ship. How worth do you think is to buy a kit in stead of making it by my self?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I find it better my self to make kits. If you make it your own you have some problems that will remain problems. What about the metallic parts? Where are you going to find them and if you do what about the scale of them? Also the different types of wood makes a model more beautiful, if you make it your own you won't be able to have that level of detail.

[@simonluzuriaga3947]

@@JohnsWoodenShips thank you so much for your advice

[@Sciguy95]

@@simonluzuriaga3947 I've seen plans that you can buy for how to build a model ship totally from scratch, so its similar to a kit in that it it instruction and plan based instead of totally relying on your own imagination, but you have to create all the pieces yourself. That's why it was only recommended for very experienced expert model builders that are looking for a challenge. They are also usually built in the same way that a ship is built in real life, just at a scaled down size.

[@mickcox9191]

Hi John. I have been following your builds for some time now & would like your opinion on which was your most enjoyable build from Occre. a) Santisma Trinidad; b) Montanes & c) San Ildefonso. Taking into account quality of wood, parts & instructions. I have built a few wooden ships, so difficulty will not be a problem. Thanks in anticipation. Mick Cox

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi Mick. thank you for being here with me! Since the level of difficulty is not a problem then Montanes by far :) San Ildefonso is exactly as Montanes only with different colors and the hull painted white which i do not like at all. I love the looks of sapely wood :)

[@bigfatpear]

Hi, John, do you have any experience with De agostini ? Cheers.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi my friend, unfortunately no, i haven't made any model from that company.

[@kamerkahya4103]

Hello John. i recently have gotten interested in model ships. i have watched most of your videos. i have a question for you. i'm beginner and thinking to start Polaris from Occre. İs it fine for begginers? May i handle it? Thank you.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi Kamer! Thank you very much! Yes it is appropriate, also the Albatros is a good one to start with. The Polaris is very simple, you will learn more with the Albatros.

[@saltydog8623]

I too have build models from all these companies. Funny how we all see things differently. I guess it depends on how you're looking at them. In my opinion, Artesania Latina is the worst of all these. From using shoe eyelets for portholes, to the most awful blocks, bad rigging line, very porous wood strips of cheap wood. Everything about Latina says "cheap". The instructions are good for beginners, but that's it. You mention Corel being the worst. I think it's beautiful stuff. Super high quality materials. Very nice blocks, rigging, wood, you name it. The plans are fantastic but for experienced modelers. So I think that if you're just starting this hobby, Latina is the way to go. But your finished product looks like a toy, versus something from Corel, that looks like a work of art if you do it right. All the other brands fall somewhere in between. I would rank them from best to worst: Corel, Mantua, Mamoli, Amati, Artesania Latina.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I only made one model from Corel ,don't even remember it's name, for a friend. The blocks where awful, still have some of them and they hardly look like blocks. The wood strips were not cut correctly, in some points were thicker than others and the side was not straight. Oh and they were very easy to break like they were glued together. The instructions, at the time i had only 15 years of wooden model making and i was struggling to understand how i had to cut, place and do things. Eventually i did but it was a pain in the.... Never again from Corel, i wouldn't make on even if they gave it to me for free. The Artesania then and OcCre now, had and have the best quality of materials i have ever seen (from all the companies i ever made something). Beautifully cut and great instructions. And you think that Amati has better quality...of boy... After making 3 models of Amati i am pretty sure that your standards must be different than mine.

[@saltydog8623]

@@JohnsWoodenShips As I said in the beginning, "we all see things differently". I built the Victory, the Endeavour, La Couronne, and the fantastic Wappen Von Hamburg, all from Corel. Beautiful stuff. I learned from Latina. They are always the least expensive kits, but as I progressed and bought other brands, I realized Latina kits were just toys. Really geared towards beginners. I only built one Amati and again was much more refined than Latina stuff. The new Amati kits are beautiful. If you can't remember the name of the Corel kit you built, is it possible it wasn't a Corel model?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@saltydog8623 It was definitely a Corel kit, search it by the picture in the video then you will see what it was.

[@jamesmand8029]

I wanted to keep my project short in length due to space restrictions. I purchased the Victory Bow section from Panart (Mantua). I am using it for scrap. The instructions are impossible to understand. Most of the wood parts are plywood that are exposed and seen as plywood. This gives the model a cheap look. Shaping the bulkheads for the planking was impossible. I won't go on. I have now quit the construction. Too many headaches. Has anyone else tried this kit? I wanted to make lemonade with the lemon I received. I will now be making compost. Enough negatives. I want a new start with a doable quality small to midsize full kit. From what I can tell an Occre kit would be the best start. Any suggestions on manufacturer and kit?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Try La Candelaria from OcCre. I have just finished her and the video series will be completed during this month. A very beautiful and easy to make model.

[@jamesmand8029]

@@JohnsWoodenShips Thanks. The La Candelaria on the Model Expo site is backordered. Expected to be in stock in about 3 weeks. I'm in no rush. I saw the Endurance from OcCre on the ME site and was considering that also. I read the book 'Endurance' recently. It details the whole adventure. It would be a nice tie-in with the the book. However, I like the idea of a video series.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@jamesmand8029 I have more video series , take a look at my playlists, maybe you will find something interesting 🙂

[@o-b-1]

Hi John, can you recommend me a ship model that I can make in 2 months or less? I can work all day and I'm a medium level builder Thank you very much

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi! An easy one is La Candelaria, if you work every day in 2 months period you will have her ready.

[@o-b-1]

@@JohnsWoodenShips thank you

[@o-b-1]

​@@JohnsWoodenShipsI finished it, it looks amazing 🥰

[@zakori7325]

I saw these models in instagram and instantly decided to make a ship for myself. I have made some rc air planes, now i would like to buy a kit. Please suggest me model and brand as a beginner. Should be detailed a little bit bigger Thanks

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I believe that you should start with an easy one like this : www.occre.com/model-ship/albatros.html, also if you want something i little bit harder i recommend this one : www.occre.com/model-ship/corsair.html I do not recommend for beginners something that is expensive because you are going to make mistakes and that's the idea. By making mistakes you will learn. Now if you want something hard this is the one : www.occre.com/model-ship/diana.html but it is not my recommendation for beginners. Also take your time to watch the following playlist, you will learn a lot : kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYq7eWNpd9mUq80

[@zakori7325]

@@JohnsWoodenShips thank you so much for the quick response. I am definitely going to watch the video series before i make up my mind on any if the kits. Cheers

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@zakori7325 I am glad that i was able to help you! :)

[@dugan6056]

See above

[@johnbrock1602]

Have you built a model from Blue Jacket Ship Crafters like to hear what you think about them.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

No John, i haven't so i cannot have an opinion.

[@BigLisaFan]

Blue Jacket models are really very good. Have built one of them and another waiting to be done and everything was well done and of good quality in the kits. Their customer service is outstanding too. Always available by phone and easy to deal with for help or inquiries. They offer a wide range of parts in different scales for those who build their own from plans, and a lot of accessory items like paints, books, tools and finishing materials. They are located in Maine, USA. Used to be in Castine, Maine but have moved I think. Depending on your skill, you should be able to build their kits. Well detailed instructions, easy to understand and well illustrated, depending on the model I suppose, assembly booklet. Don't think you'll be disappointed. As for Dumas kits, I have heard it described as "scratch building in a box". I don't think I'd get another from them. Their parts make great masters if you decide to, and you will, get better quality woods.

[@Redspeciality]

What do you think of Model Shipways?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Never made a model of them so i don't have an opinion, but i have seen that their "big" models comes without sails and this is something that i don't like. There is no point of building a sails ship without sails. It's like building a plastic model without painting it.

[@ch003pe]

Hello John I like to collect Greek military bayonets, I have built a couple of the triremes, but my main interest is the ships used during the war of independence 21. I am aware that most of these boats were converted in to fighting ships, but that had to start some were, What are some of the boats used in the war that are available in model form, Ειμαι οπο την Πελλανα, εωα μικρο χοργιο στην Σπαρτη, Ειμαι στην Αμερικι απο 9 χρονον τορα ειμαι 60 χρονον, τα εληνικα μου γραφτα δεν ειναι καλλα, Οτι μπορεις να με βαειθησης σε ευηαριστο Κοστας Περδικης

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Hi Kostas, What is it that you need help to ? Πες μου κι αν μπορω θα σε βοηθησω :)

[@ch003pe]

@@JohnsWoodenShips I want to build a model of a ship the Greeks used in the war of 1821, are some thing close, are there any models out there?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@ch003pe NO, unfortunately no. Greek companies for model kits do not exists. And if you see any company out there then it's just a Greek company that imports kits from China. It's difficult to find these specific types of models. Perhaps some company does make them but i do not know which.

[@ch003pe]

@@JohnsWoodenShips well it was a try thanks a lot

[@corkcamden9878]

You need to experience Falkonet Russian kits. They are the finest I have ever built. But, this is only my opinion.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I took a quick search in Google, their kits seems to be very detailed but i have found only 2 or 3 big sail ships and i didn't liked any of them (as a ship that is).

[@eksund1900]

Some say that Artesania Latina is out of business!

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

Indeed, it's about a year now that they went out of business.

[@doublea5582]

What's about model space ?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I have never made one from them so i cannot have an opinion.

[@bincvanlaere6861]

Stupid questions. What does ships have to do with space?

[@fedup08]

Doing their 1/84 victory or I should be,up be up to pack 5 but pack 1 was/is out of stock still no idea when it's due

[@maddog1738]

How about Billings Boats?

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

I have never made one from them so i cannot have an opinion.

[@BigLisaFan]

Read carefully. Sometimes the fitting sets are sold as a separate (and can be expensive) item on some of their kits.

[@dugan6056]

Awful materials, OK if you cut everything yourself with better timber.

[@geraldmorain3166]

Blueprints

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

What do you mean?

[@theeternalklansmanmaestro5039]

hehe

[@carloferretti1858]

COREL is the best, I don’t know what are you talking about

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

For you maybe it is you are entitled to your opinion, for me is the one of the worst.

[@ozgundemirr]

their common is being extremely expensive for what they are..

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

It depends on the model and company. Some kits are expensive and some others are in the right price.

[@tonyromano6220]

So they all have issues!😊

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

None is faultless, you just have to choose the one that fits your needs :)

[@nikosfilipu886]

Why doesn't a Greek company make wooden model ships and show them how it is done....honestly we Greeks were making ships whey they were ......(you finish it)

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

You are right, but now we Greeks are making nothing of the kind... It's a shame...with all the history we have we have nothing similar in production...

[@omiros-bo6pl]

Navarino models, the name of the greek company which makes wooden ship model kits and it seems legit

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@omiros-bo6pl I haven't made any model from them. From a quick look at their site i can tell you that 1st their prices are way too expensive for what they offer. 2nd they do not have close up photos in their most expensive model and that makes you think, and 3rd in a small model that they do have a couple of close ups i am not so sure about the quality of materials. From all these i am pretty sure that OcCre if by far better in quality, design and prices.

[@prototypep4]

This is very biased and blatantly false at times.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

It's my opinion based on my experience over the years who i can prove with the models i made. Why don't you prove what you are saying?

[@prototypep4]

@@JohnsWoodenShips well taking a simple glance at any current Amati model for example shows they not only have some of the most detailed and straight forward plans I've ever come across their materials are top notch too. Perhaps you chose either a bad model or a very old one. I can name several kits of theirs that most beginners can pick and confidently complete.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@prototypep4 I have made 2 Amati kits and they were exactly the same and as you can see i have made a lot of kits and i am able to compare.

[@prototypep4]

@@JohnsWoodenShips I feel like you still haven't handled a recent amati kit.

[@gornelmagic1911]

Kits are not accurate

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

What do you mean?

[@gornelmagic1911]

@@JohnsWoodenShips I mean that a kit ship is a vague representation of the real ship in shape and other criteria also the scale in many cases its wrong. Try to compare a well documented ship plan with a kit one.

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

@@gornelmagic1911 This is not what this video is for, do not confuse things. This is a comparison of companies that makes wooden model kits.

[@gornelmagic1911]

@@JohnsWoodenShips People need to know before buying. You can erase my comment if you dont like but I belive my comment is relevant to the subject.

[@Cacheola]

@@gornelmagic1911 Kits are a starting point, you adjust as necessary and if so inclined. Your comment is vague and thoughtless

[@carloferretti1858]

Ahahaha spanish companies are the best just because you are spanish

[@JohnsWoodenShips]

No Carlo, i am Greek and Spanish companies are the best because everything that i have made from a Spanish company is top quality.

[@thomaszaccone3960]

@@JohnsWoodenShips 🤣🤣👍👍👍👍 Excella response ! Thanks John I appreciate your analysis

[@Max1mvsM]

oh shut up man...