El Blog de Artesanía Latina

Elcano Ship Model Instructions (IV): Finish Building the Spanish Training Ship with Our Latest Video Tutorials!

Posted on March 23, 2023March 21, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

We dive into the last part of the Elcano ship model instructions for its assembly. With these video tutorials made by our modelers, we put the finishing touch to the set up of the Spanish school ship model Juan Sebastián Elcano / Chilean Esmeralda (22260) at 1:250 scale. As we mentioned before, it is a faithful miniature replica excellent for beginners on the hobby of naval modeling.

ELCANO SHIP MODEL INSTRUCTIONS: SAILS (PART III – A)

We continue with ‘Sails – Part III’, which is Step 21 of the instructions for assembling the Elcano ship model (22260).

Arrange one unit of parts S7, S8, S9 and S10, that is, more sails. Take part S7, and sew it with a needle cotton thread –part CT1– around the stick part Y1, from top to bottom. When you finish sewing, help yourself with some Straight Fastening Tweezers (27020) to tie the knot on the stick.

Now, with a cutter, drill two small holes in the two opposite corners of the stick. Insert the two BR1 parts -two rings- into these. Take a part BL and thread -part CT1-. Put the thread through the hole and around part BL. Tie a knot at the end with the help of the aforementioned tweezers. The thread should be fully stretched through the hole and around the part BL. Apply Dense Cyanoacrylate for Porous Materials on the knot and allow to dry.

Next, you will have excess thread on both sides of the knot. First, completely cut one of the threads, while the other leave a few centimeters long. Don’t cut it all the way. Second, also using the tweezers, tie that thread with the BL part to the left side of the stick and tie the knot with cyano. Third, if there is excess thread, remove it with a cutter. Repeat all these actions on the other end of the stick with another BL part.

The result should be this:

ELCANO SHIP MODEL INSTRUCTIONS: SAILS (PART III – B)

Then go through the entire process again with the other SAILS. For the sail part S8, you will need one Y2 part, two BR1 parts and two BL parts. For the part S9, one Y3 part, two BR1 parts and two BL parts. And for the S10, one part Y4, two parts BR1 and four parts BL. Take again the sail part S7 and thread part CT1. At one end of the stick, tie a knot with plenty of thread left over from both sides. Apply cyano and let dry. Repeat the process on the other end of the stick.

Take the S7 sail. Use a Curved Fastening Tweezers (27021) to pass the thread -part CT1- with a needle above the mast top, as seen on the video. The goal is the sail can be already hanging on its mast. Make the knots as shown, apply a little of cyano and cut the excess thread with the Thread Snips (27060). The sail already stays in place.

Repeat the process with the S8 sail. Once hung, it has to be attached to the S7 sail with thread. Tie them by means of the two BR1 parts that are on the sail. Passing the CT1 thread through the BR1 ring and, right after, tie it to the end of the stick. Repeat the process also for the other end of the pole with the other BR1 ring.

Do the same with the S9 sail, but this time tying it to the S8 sail. And finally, with the S10 sail, knotting it to the S9. This should be the final look with all the sails in place.

ELCANO SHIP MODEL INSTRUCTIONS: SAILS (PART IV – A)

Well, it’s time for the next task. Step 22 of the assembly instructions for the ship model Elcano (22260). This one is about ‘Sails – Part IV’.

Take the four sails parts S11. Now take one and, using a utility knife, drill three holes in each of the three corners of the sail. Then, insert one of the three parts BR1 -rings- into each hole. Open each part BR1 with two Needle Nose Pliers (27213) and insert the ring through the sail. After inserting it, close it again using the aforementioned pliers. As we have discussed, repeat the process with the other three sails.

Again, take a sail part S11. Insert thread through the BR1 ring found on the most pointed part of the sail, at the top and tie a knot. Cut the excess of one of the ends of the thread and pass the other end through the mast. Then bring the thread to the hull, tighten it, tie it off and glue it with cyano. Watch the video for it.

Now, thread CT1 through the outermost ring BR1. Begin to tie a knot and leave a hole to insert it into the bottom sail pole. Insert into the stick and close the knot. Do the same with more thread through the remaining BR1 ring, the third one, the one closest to the mast. In this sense, the sail part S11 will be attached to the lower sail.

ELCANO MODEL SHIP INSTRUCTIONS: SAILS (PART IV – B)

Below that bottom sail, place a PCL part. Bend the wire that has the stick on it and attach it to the mast. Use the pliers to twist the wire around the mast.

Take CT1 thread and pass it through the eye of the BR1 part of that lower sail to make a knot and pass it through the PCL stick. The sail will be attached to the mast. Remember to apply cyano to all the knots you make.

Thread CT1 through the ring on the hull and tie it to the stick so that it is taut. The rest of the thread, pass it through the mast top and tie it to the deck. Take a look at the video to run this process, which you will need to repeat for the other three sails.

ELCANO SHIP MODEL INSTRUCTIONS: SAILS (PART V)

Step 23 of Elcano ship model instructions (22260) for the assembly of Spanish school ship, is about the ‘Sails – Part V’. You need to pay close attention to the video so that you can build the rest of the sails.

JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO MODEL SHIP: DECKS (PART III – A)

We continue with Step 24 of the Elcano ship model instructions for its assembly. This is about ‘Decks – Part III’.

Take two M8 parts and glue them parallel to the foredeck as shown on the video. Next, take ten units of the part DM4. With the help of cyano and grip pliers, take five of these and glue each one next to the other on the deck area shown. Then turn the boat 180º and do the same for the other five on the other side of the deck.

Once this task is done, take a Stainless Steel Ruler 150 mm (27069). Use it to mark with a pencil on the edge of the hull two points with an equidistance of 18 mm. From each of these two points, with the ruler, measure and mark two points 6 mm inside the deck. Drill with a small hand drill at the two points marked on the deck.

Take an M6 part. Apply a drop of cyano and insert it with tweezers into one of the two holes made. Repeat the process with another M6 part and insert it into the other deck hole.

JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO MODEL SHIP: DECKS (PART III – B)

It is time to use thread part CT2 for the placement of part P2, previously painted with Off-White Acrylic Paint (27702). First, thread the thread through the two holes in part P2. Second, take the other end of the thread and feed it through an M6 part. Do the same with the other end. When you are inserting the two ends of the thread into each M6 part, insert them from the outside to the inside.

Next, make a knot in each of the two inserted ends so that the part P2 does not come loose. Apply a little cyano to each one. Repeat the process on the opposite side of the boat.

JUAN SEBASTIÁN ELCANO ASSEMBLY: HANDRAILS AND PROPELLER

The ‘Handrails and Propeller’ is Step 25 of the video tutorial for building the model of the Elcano ship. Take two PE3 parts, previously painted with off-white paint. Apply cyano to each of the tips of the base that will be inserted. Place each of the two PE3 parts on the edge of the hull and the deck with the help of a Curved Fastening Tweezers (27021). There are two in the bow.

Then, take a PE4 part, also previously painted with off-white colour. Bend it with your hands so that it takes on the curved shape of the stern. Once you have the shape, apply cyano to each of the corners and glue the part with both hands to the edge of the deck. Take another PE4 part and tack it right next to the one you placed earlier. Put it behind the lifeboat. Repeat the process on the other side of the hull.

Finally, the part M11 -propeller- enters the scene. Apply cyano to the tip to be inserted and place it with your hands and a pair of tweezers on the hull.

JUAN SEBASTIÁN ELCANO ASSEMBLY: LAST DETAILS TO FINISH (PART I)

We continue with the final step of the Elcano ship model instructions for its assembly with the ‘Last Details’, which is Step 26. Arrange a unit of the part WD3 with a diameter of 2×35 mm, previously painted off-white. Later, take the part FL1 -Spanish flag- and with the help of a cutter, remove the sticker protector.

Place the center of the sticker -it has a stripe drawn- on the stick and close the sticker with your hands and the handle of a scalpel cutter until both sides of the flag stick together. Stick it in the hole in the aft deck provided for it.

It is the turn of the part PE5 Elcano / PE6 Esmeralda -metal sheet with the name of the ship-. First, paint it with Hull Green Colour (27751). Then, sand the entire edge of the sheet with a utility cutter until you can see the metal of the sheet. Apply cyano and glue it to the stern of the boat, just below the flag.

JUAN SEBASTIÁN ELCANO ASSEMBLY: LAST DETAILS TO FINISH (PART II)

Now, take the two parts M17 -anchors-, previously painted with Off-Black Colour (27703). Place them into the two holes provided for this with the help of tweezers and a few drops of cyano. Finally, there is the part PE7 / PE8 -name of the ship for the base-. Also paint it with off-black colour, sand the edges with a cutter until you see the metal part and, with cyano, glue it to the exhibition base.

You have just finished building the wonderful model of the training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano / Esmeralda (22260)! Congratulations!

*Model Ship Elcano / Esmeralda Built by our modeling friend Girish Khandagale.*

We remind you that you can also purchase the Elcano Gift Pack (22260L), which includes the kit with the schooner sailboat, its paints and some tools. It has a lower price than if the products are purchased separately.

Read the third part of the post…

Modeling Tools & Accessories

Modeling and Crafts Glues: White Glue and Cyanoacrylate for Porous Materials

Posted on March 17, 2023March 21, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

There are many occasions when our modelers friends ask us what adhesives and glues for modeling and crafts to use. Even more, when they are assembling one of our model boats and model planes made of wood. Well, the time has come in this blog post to talk about it. If you want your parts are completely united with the best results, there is no doubt, the glues made by Artesanía Latina are at the forefront.

Next, we indicate you which are the glues for modeling and crafts that you can obtain on our website, pay attention.

GLUES FOR MODELING AND CRAFTS: WHITE GLUE

The first option you have is white glue for wood and porous materials (27602). Presented in a 250 gr bottle, it is one of the so-called easy-to-apply vinyl adhesives. It dries quickly -by having a short drying time- and you can use it on porous materials such as wood, cardboard, carpet, cork, fabrics and tablex. Its texture is creamy.

It comes with a nozzle for easy opening and closing, thus avoiding any type of spillage or the white glue for wood from drying out. Also, if you have traces of this adhesive on your skin, don’t worry, it is not inconvenient for the skin. And if the glue smells too much, neither, because Artesanía Latina’s white vinyl glue does not release toxic fumes.

As for its uses, it can be used, as we discussed, when you are building models made of wood and making crafts such as sewing and fashion, cork and rubber creations, and an endless number of other tasks and hobbies. In this sense, we recommend that if you apply the glue with a brush, keep it moist in water.

GLUES FOR MODELING AND CRAFTS: CYANOACRYLATE FOR POROUS MATERIALS 50 GR. AND SPRAY ACCELERATOR

Another of the fantastic glues for modeling and crafts. When you require even faster drying than white glue, this is your option. The set with the dense cyanoacrylate bottle and its 50 gr. of product and with the cyanoacrylate accelerator spray of 200 ml (27602) by Artesanía Latina. The adherence you will obtain is maximum and instantaneous!

It is perfect for gluing wood and other porous materials such as cardboard, carpet, cork, fabrics and tablex. The dense cyanoacrylate has a nozzle for easy opening and closing, thus preventing any type of spillage or that the cyanoacrylate itself dries up. And a cannula for its measured and precise application. It is also important to note that our cyanoacrylate does not have solvents.

Being a dense cyanoacrylate and slower drying compared to other cyanoacrylates, the accelerator is essential as it makes the glue dry more quickly. Before using it in your activity, we recommend that you test it.

1. Put a drop of dense cyanoacrylate on the two parts to be glued.

2. Next, apply the cyano accelerator spray to one of the two parts to be joined and wait for the product to evaporate.

3. At that instant, put the two parts together. Be careful because as soon as you stick them they will not be able to detach from each other.

Store and protect the dense cyanoacrylate bottle for better conservation in a place out of direct sunlight, dry and with a cool temperature. Wash your hands repeatedly with lukewarm water in case they get stuck with the product.

CYANOACRYLATE FOR POROUS MATERIALS 20 GR.

Another novelty in terms of glues for modeling and crafts is the bottle of dense cyanoacrylate 20 gr. (27620) by Artesanía Latina. This is an easy-to-apply glue and is used to achieve instant joining of parts. Ideal for gluing wood and other porous materials such as cardboard, carpet, cork, fabrics and tablex. The jar has a spout for easy opening and closing, thus avoiding spills or drying of the product.

SET OF 20 GR. JARS WITH CYANOACRILATE FOR POROUS MATERIALS (x2)

New! In 2023, we have created this pack thinking about our customer friends who use adhesives a lot for modeling and crafts tasks. The set with 2 bottles of cyanoacrylate dense (27621) of 20 gr. each one -40 gr in total- made by Artesanía Latina brings this magnificent glue that is easy to apply for instant union of pieces.

GLUES FOR MODELING AND CRAFTS: GLUE APPLICATORS

Do you need maximum precision when you are applying the glue? Don’t want to get your fingertip dirty? We have the best product to achieve these two objectives. Our glue applicators! These are included in the set of micro saws, scriber and applicators (27302). Glue applicators are really essential.

Under this text, we also show you on video how to use the applicators and we show you the rest of the very useful tools that come in the set.

Naval & Aviation History

Soleil Royal History: the French Warship of King Louis XIV in the 17th Century

Posted on March 2, 2023March 2, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

It is, for sure, one of the largest and most powerful warships of the Baroque. Without a doubt, it is also the most beautiful decorated of the boats of the time, it was sublime. We are talking about the French warship that was part of the Navy of King Louis XIV during the 17th century. We are writing this post to learn about the history of the Soleil Royal, the Gallic ship of the line with 104 guns arranged in a battery on three levels, flagship of Admiral Tourville. The emblem of the ‘Soleil’ had been chosen by the French monarch as his personal symbol.

The history of the Soleil Royal begins with its construction in Brest (France) between 1668 and 1670. Who was in charge of carrying it out? The engineer Laurent Hubac, who takes two years to finish. It is launched in 1669, but unfortunately it lays unused in the port of Brest for years. At first, Soleil Royal does not enters into combat at all.

As we have already mentioned, its decoration is spectacular. The person in charge of this is Antoine Coysevox, a sculptor who creates all the decorations on the ship, including those on the gun embrasures. This plastic artist from the court of Louis XIV is also responsible for the impressive and still existing ornaments of the Palace of Versailles.

Print of the Soleil Royal from the Louvre Museum. — BERAIN Jean I, Musée du Louvre, Département des Arts graphiques, INV 23718, Recto.

SOLEIL ROYAL HISTORY: NINE YEARS’ WAR

The history of the Soleil Royal continues, does not stop. Subsequently, the Soleil Royal is commissioned with 112 guns and 1,200 men on board when the Nine Years’ War in 1688. Also, called War of the Great Alliance, War of the Palatinate and War of the League of Augsburg.

The King decides at first to send all his ships prepared to sail and for battle. However, seeing himself in inferior conditions, he also orders to send the useful ships, even if they are moored to the dock, as is the case of our Soleil Royal. So this vessel departs from the port of Brest on June 22, 1690.

Then, Tourville commands the French ship, a highly respected officer in the Navy. The Soleil Royal remains waiting for a favorable wind to go to the Isle of Wight. There, the English fleet remains anchored after sending two French ships on a reconnaissance mission. On July 10, 1690, the Battle of Béveziers (Beachy Head) broke out with the surprise factor of the French attacking the Anglo-Saxons. After its victory, France seizes control of the English Channel.

The role in history of the Soleil Royal is fundamental as the flagship of the Escadre du Ponant (Squadron of the West) leading the French naval formation on the squad center. It is said that it is a good sailboat, it sails optimally, and its firepower is lethal.

THE FRENCH WARSHIP AT THE BATTLE OF BARFLEUR

Once its naval warfare began, the Soleil Royal became a French war emblem. Now with 104 guns, the French ship leaves the port of Brest on May 12, 1692 leading a fleet with 44 more ships. It may seem that there are many. However, on May 29, the French ships encountered the incredible Anglo-Dutch naval force. 97 powerful warships await the French in the Battle of Barfleur.

The crossfire starts! The Soleil Royal and its companions, being vastly outnumbered, decide to attack the enemies. After an arduous fight, it is forced to flee because of the serious damage suffered. Its crew is depleted by half and can barely sail. For this reason, the Soleil Royal and the ships Triomphant and Admirable are forced to anchor in Cherbourg to be repaired. They cannot reach the port of Brest, further away than the one mentioned.

END OF THE SOLEIL ROYAL AT THE BATTLE OF CHERBOURG

The history of the Soleil Royal ends at the Battle of Cherbourg. While docked at the Pointe du Hommet, the French warship is attacked by 17 ships which it repels with its artillery fire. The problem is that the stern of the ship catches fire and spreads the rest on the ship of the line.

With the help of the population of Cherbourg, only one survivor can be rescued from the around 883 – or even more – crew. The end of the history of the Soleil Royal, it remains near the arsenal of the port. Of course, its legacy continues throughout the seas and world naval history. A detailed 1:40 scale model from 1839 of the hull and sculptures of the Soleil Royal is currently on display at the Musée National de la Marine in Paris.

For our part, from Artesanía Latina, we are pleased to bring you this beautiful and faithful miniature replica in wood at 1:72 scale of the Soleil Royal (22904) that you can build with your own hands. For more in-depth information, there is another post on our blog that talks exclusively about the model. If you are an expert modeller and need a challenge at your level and with such beauty… Our Soleil Royal model is for you!

Model Building

Modeling Gift Ideas: 2023 New Gift Packs with Models, Paints, Figurines and Tools

Posted on February 24, 2023November 10, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

In 2022 we brought you a very useful type of product for modelers and here we presented it to you. It is not easy for family and friends or for the fans of this hobby themselves to have modeling gift ideas. ‘What do I buy you if I don’t know anything except that you build miniature models?’ The ultimate test for those who are close to the modeler. Forget breaking your head because we offer you the gift with which you will surely get a positive answer. The Gift Packs made by Artesanía Latina. And now we have many more news for 2023!

These Modeling Gift Packs include the model, the paints, the figurines and, in addition, some tools in the same product. In addition, your pocket will be happy because the packs are at a lower price compared to if the items are purchased separately. Let’s get to know the new modeling gift ideas!

MODELING GIFT IDEAS: GIFT PACK MODEL SHIP VIKING

First, we surprise you with one of the most famous boats in history and in recent years thanks to series and movies online. The Drakkar Viking Ship Model Gift Pack (19001-L) includes the 1:75 scale model (19001-N) and its specific set of acrylic paints (277PACK19). Finally, some great modeling tools. It contains round synthetic hair brush, cutter, curved fastening tweezers (27021), sanding block (27014) and cyano bottle (27620).

MODELING GIFT IDEAS: GIFT PACK MODEL LONGBOAT HMS ENDEAVOUR

The renewed model of the Captain’s Longboat HMS Endeavour (19005) also has a fabulous Gift Pack (19005-L). First, it includes the 1:50 scale wooden model of the British ship. Second, its set of specific acrylic paints (277PACK7). As gifts, it comes with a round brush, a cutter, curved fastening tweezers (27021), sanding block (27014) and cyano bottle (27620).

MODELING GIFT IDEAS: GIFT PACK MODEL TUNA BOAT MARIE JEANNE

We have created a French Tuna Boat Marie Jeanne Gift Pack (22175-L). You will love this one due to its 1:50 scale model of the Gallic fishing boat (22175) and its set of specific acrylic paints (277PACK12). At no additional cost to you, it contains a round brush, a cutter, curved fastening tweezers (27021), sanding block (27014) and cyano bottle (27620) and A4 cutting mat (27644).

MODELING GIFT IDEAS: GIFT PACK MODEL FISHING BOAT BOTTER

This pack has a very traditional Dutch fishing boat from the area, and different in comparison to most of this kind of ships: the Botter Model Gift Pack (22125-L). In this, you will find the 1:35 scale model in wood (22125) and its specific set of acrylic paints (277PACK19). As bonus tools, brush, sanding block (27014) and cyano bottle (27620) and A4 cutting mat (27644).

GIFT PACK: MODEL FRENCH TRAINING SHIP BELEM

The French training ship is one of the most emblematic ships on our collection of naval modeling. Of course, it has a very interesting Gift Pack Belem (22519-L) will excite you with the 1:75 scale model of the ship (22519) and its specific acrylic paints set (277PACK2). As a gift, tools such as a brush, sanding block (27014) and cyano bottle (27620) and A4 cutting mat (27644).

GIFT PACK MODEL GERMAN FIGHTER FOKKER DR. I

One of the jewels of aviation modeling not only on Artesanía Latina catalog but of the entire market. The Fokker Dr. I Fighter Plane Model Gift Pack (20350-L) of the Red Baron in World War I. It comes with the modeling kit –museum quality- in wood and metal of the 1:16 scale model (20350) and its specific acrylic paints set (277PACK1). What gifts does the pack have? Cutter, curved fastening tweezers (27021), sanding block (27014), 250 gram jar of white glue for wood and porous materials (27602), 125 ml bottle of transparent satin varnish (27605) and A4 cutting mat (27644).

GIFT PACK MODELS FOR CHILDREN +8 PIRATE & VIKING SHIPS

The last of the modeling gift ideas now in stock on our catalog refers to Gift Pack Models for Children +8 Pirate Ship and Viking Ship (30506-L). This one brings the scale model of the Nordic boat (30506-N) and the one of pirates (30509-N). As a splendid gift to protect the surface or table where both models are built, A4 cutting mat (27644).

Finally, we would like to remind you the blog post in which we talk about the pre-existing gift packs. We also have more 2023 new packs you can find out here! Know which ones there are in total and find out about them in depth to choose the one you really like. And all that remains is to put your hands to assemble!

Modeling Tools & Accessories

Small Sized Modelling Tools: Micro Riveting Tool, Micro Centering Ruler and Micro Easy Ratlines Templates 5 – 8 mm

Posted on February 16, 2023February 16, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

On the previous post, we reminded you all the latest news in relation to modeling tools. On this occasion, we present the new small sized modelling tools created by Artesanía Latina, the so-called Micro Tools, which have recently arrived at our warehouses. This exclusive collection has a whole series of small-sized utensils with high quality standards to be able to work with the different materials of any wooden, plastic and metal model, and much more handicrafts. Above all, they are essential for naval modeling.

The new Micro Tools references are the following: Micro Riveting Tool 17×5 mm for Ship Model Hull (27320), Micro Centering Ruler (27326) and Micro Templates for Easy Ratlines 5 mm (27310) and 8 mm (27312), because the one with 6.5 mm (27311) was on sale before. So let’s get to know these small sized modelling tools in depth!

SMALL SIZED MODELLING TOOLS: MICRO RIVETING TOOL 17X5 MM

One of the small sized tools for modelling -in this case, naval- most useful and requested by our client friends. The new Micro Riveting Tool (27320) 17×5 mm for Ship Model Hull is the ideal tool to decorate the mentioned hull and… All kinds of models and crafts! What is the objective of this Micro Riveting Tool? The modeller uses it to mark on the 5 mm Adhesive Copper Tape (27595) -for sale separately- the heads of the nails with which the copper plates were nailed to the hull during the old days.

This is one of the new small sized modelling tools that you must have. It helps you provide realism to the copper hull finish of any naval model. This way of creating the hulls under its waterline began in the middle of the eighteenth century to prevent mollusks and other marine animals from attaching themselves to the hull, because they caused a serious problem: less speed navigation.

The Micro Riveting Tool needs to be assembled so our modelers have edited a video tutorial showing how to assemble the product and how to use it.

SMALL SIZED MODELLING TOOLS: MICRO CENTERING RULER

The Micro Centering Ruler (27326) is the measuring tool that was missing from our catalog… And that you need! It is perfect for working comfortably on model and handicraft parts as it allows to know what the exact center is of these with absolute precision. The modeler’s work is much more concrete during the assembly process. It is an excellent ruler as it is made of high-quality stainless steel.

A normal ruler has 0 at one end, the Centering Micro Rule places 0 on the center and the numbering grows towards both sides. Includes measurements in metric and imperial systems. The total length of the ruler is 7.87” (20 centimeters), 3.93” (10 centimeters) at each end.

How to know the center of a part? Place the centering ruler so that the measurement matches the edges, and the 0 on the rule marks the middle of the part. The tiny points allow you to mark measurements with total accuracy, being able to insert a pencil into these to point. As can be seen on the enlarged image below, it also has a protractor. Likewise, it should be noted that the Micro Centering Ruler has two holes to hang it, thus avoiding its possible loss and helping to organize the work table.

Learn more about the Micro Centering Ruler on the video below.

MICRO TOOLS FOR MODEL SHIPS: MICRO EASY RATLINES TEMPLATES 5 & 8 MM

The latest innovations -surely there will be more in the near future- of small sized modelling tools for are the Micro Templates for Easy Ratlines 5 mm (27310) and 8 mm (27312) by Artesanía Latina. Each set contains three templates made of wood with different widths so that the naval modeller can easily build the scales of the ship model. The best thing is that, in addition, it can reduce the amount of thread used!

Each set of 5 and 8mm Easy Ratlines Templates contains three templates to suit the width of the shrouds on the three masts. The templates are designed so that when the templates are being installed they are slightly spaced behind the shrouds so that the adhesive does not stick to them.

How to use these micro templates? Place them behind the shrouds and with the side ‘combs’ pass a zig-zag thread in front of the shrouds. Put everything correctly and apply glue at each joint of the shrouds and the thread that you have placed in front. Next, cut the excess threads, and you will be able to see how you have assembled the ratlines on a much faster and easier way than if you had made them knot by knot at each joint.

Here you can see how our modeler creates the ratlines on the video tutorial below, starting at minute 1:43.

KNOW BETTER ALL OUR SMALL SIZED MODELLING TOOLS

If you want to know more in-depth information about the rest of our small sized modelling tools, you can check out our two old blog posts. On the one hand, the one that speaks about Introduction to Micro Tools. On the other, the News before this article. In addition, you can view and purchase them on our website. Make your hobby more enjoyable thanks to the Micro Tools made by Artesanía Latina!

Modeling Tools & Accessories

New Modeling Tools: Multi-Function Workbench, A2 Folding Cutting Mat, Waterline Marker and Hull Support

Posted on February 9, 2023February 8, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

In our effort to facilitate the assembly of models and to bet on the development of precise instruments, we present our friends clients new modeling tools. We try to make this hobby an even more pleasant time for the modeler. With the tools made by Artesanía Latina, you can enjoy much more when you are building the scale model of any ship or plane. These tools make different tasks much easier because they are very specific products.

That is why our team of designers and modelers is always thinking to devise, design, create and manufacture any tool that our loyal customers may need. Many of them have supported this Spanish modeling brand for more than fifty years.

And… What we have created? Well, several new modeling tools that we show below. The Multi-Function Workbench (27646), the A2 Folding Cutting Mat (27642F), the Waterline Marker (27649) and the Boat Hull Support (27011). This last one has been in stock for a long time, but we had never dedicated a space to it on the blog… And it deserves it!

NEW MODELING TOOLS: MULTI-FUNCTION WORKBENCH

New for 2023! The first of the new modeling tools that we teach is the Multi-Function Workbench (27646). Just from now for sale on the web. It is a fantastic and ingenious help for the modeler during the construction process of any model or craft. Because? Because the modeler will have free hands to work.

The Multi-Function Workbench makes possible to support and attach parts to the mentioned support in order to treat them during the cutting and sanding phases, among other actions. Don’t think about it, it is an essential tool at any modeler’s or craftsman’s workshop. Attach it to the work table with two clamps -included-, to later support all kinds of parts.

Do you need precision? Well, the Multi-Function Workbench also provides it. This is so by having support guides for cutting and centering guides for drilling round dowels and strips with different sizes. We recommend, however, that you protect the work table with a cutting mat -sold separately- and set the stand on it before using it. It is a small tool, so it is totally portable.

It requires assembly, so we suggest you use our White Glue (27602) -sold separately-, as it allows the modeler to move and reposition the two parts to stick as they dry slower than with cyano. Precisely, under these lines, you can see the assembly video of this tool:

NEW MODELING TOOLS: A2 FOLDING CUTTING MAT

This is another of the new modeling tools, on sale from end of 2022. Let’s pay a little attention to it because until now we haven’t done it on the blog. It is the A2 Cutting Mat… Foldable! (27642F), also intended for any other type of craft. Just in the previous section, we recommended the use of a mat with the Multi-Function Workbench. Well, this is the perfect one because it is big and you can fold it to store it or take it with you wherever you want! The measurements of without folding in A2 size are 23.62” (60 cms) x 17.71” (45 cms), folded it measures 17.71” (45 cms) x 12” (30.5 cms).

Su diseño personalizado, con medidas en centímetros y milímetros, medidas de los ángulos más habituales y usados, y guías impresas para identificar el tamaño de varillas y listones, facilita el trabajo minucioso y concreto del modelista o artesano. Dispone de marcas a modo de cuadrículas divididas. Este dibujo es un apoyo fundamental.

On the other hand, it has a tape attached to the bottom that holds the two parts together and folds when folded. The A2 Folding Cutting Mat is manufactured with PVC that gives its great resistance and durability. Shallow cuts made on the A2 Folding Cutting Mat will virtually disappear over time. However, deep cuts will remain.

WATERLINE MARKER FOR MODEL SHIPS

Another recent news! This time, it is a specific tool for naval modeling: the Waterline Marker for Model Ships (27649). How many times did our client friends request it! Your wishes are orders to us. Already at our warehouses!

It is essential to be able to paint or varnish later and properly the hull of the ship model -if you do not want to do it on the traditional way, not so precisely- with adjustment metric and imperial systems. With the help of this tool and the pencil, draw that line around the ship. To do this, we suggest that you hold the boat on its exhibition base or on the Hull Support (27011) -sold separately-, which we will talk about on the next section. In short, it can be used as a scriber if you want to make lines parallel to the horizontal work.

HULL SUPPORT FOR SHIP MODEL BUILDING

The last of the new modeling tools -naval- that we present is the Hull Support (27011). It is ideal for working on the ship model after assembling its hull. Thanks to this tool, the boat remains completely attached, without any movement. As a ship modeler, it is absolutely necessary, as it allows you to have both hands free during the assembly process.

Made of solid wood and with a clamp length of 300 mm, it allows to hold boats with a false keel up to approximately 400 mm. The boat hull support is valid for models of the 19000, 20100 and some of the 20400 series of Artesanía Latina.

It has a pivot point to tilt the hull to the precise working position. The fastening of the hull and the pivot point of the support are attached by means of thumb screws, without the need for additional tools. Two mini metal clamps are included to attach the support to the edge of the work table.

Soon, discover on this blog the new Micro Tools that Artesanía Latina has created. In the meantime, feel free to take the new modeling tools presented on this post to your workshop! Build with precision and comfort!

Model Building Tips

Build Juan Sebastian Elcano (III): Our Modelers Teach You How to Assemble the Spanish Training Ship

Posted on February 2, 2023March 23, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

Let’s go with the third part of the post if you want to build Juan Sebastian Elcano model ship with more video tutorials recorded by our modelers during its assembly. The model of the Spanish training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano / Chilean Esmeralda (22260) at 1:250 scale is ideal for your first experience on the naval modeling. Now, we remind you that you can also purchase the Elcano Gift Pack (22260L), which includes the kit with the brigantine schooner sailboat, its paints and some tools. It has a lower price than if the products are purchased separately. That being said… Let’s continue assembling this historic model with a pre-fabricated hull!

BUILD JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO: MASTS (PART II – A)

On Step 16, we continue to explain some of the most difficult phases when you are going to build Juan Senastian Elcano model ship: ‘Mats – Part II’. Take the eight PCL parts and one BW1 part -wire- and put them on your work table. Next, cut a small piece of wire (BW1) with a Professional Straight Cutting Pliers (27212). With a hand drill, make a 0.5 mm hole on the upper part of the stick (PCL) and apply our Cyanoacrylate for Porous Materials (27620), for sale separately, where the hole is. Insert the wire into it and bend it 90 degrees. With the help of a Stainless Steel Ruler (27069) and the aforementioned pliers, measure 0.7 mm and cut off the excess as seen on the video. Repeat the process with the remaining PCL parts.

Take the four parts S1 -sails- and arrange them on your workshop. With the help of a sewing needle, use the thread –part CT1– to sew part S1 -sail- to part PCL -mast-. Thread through the corner of the sail and around the stick as well with some Straight Fastening Tweezers (27020) and the previous drill. Continue sewing the sail with the needle and thread along the length of the mast. Knot at the end of the neck, apply cyano and cut the excess thread as shown on the video.

ASSEMBLY ELCANO MODEL SHIP: MASTS (PART II – B)

Well, it’s time for the next task. Look for one BR1 part and four BR2 parts, all rings. With a utility cutter, poke a small hole in the outer corner of the sail. Open part BR1 with two Needle Nose Pliers (27213) and insert the ring through the sail. After inserting it, close it again using the aforementioned pliers. Now, do this whole process again with the four BR2 parts on the opposite horizontal side of the sail -with respect to the placement of the BR1 part-, just as seen on the video. Repeat with the remaining three sails. It should look like this:

ASSEMBLY ELCANO MODEL SHIP: MASTS (PART II – C)

Once the previous stage to build Juan Sebastian Elcano model ship has been completed, take one of those sails and introduce the mast created on the previous post through the large rings. Then, take the wire of the mast with the sail that you had bent to 90ºand insert it into the hollow part provided for it, below the top. Thus the upper part of the sail remains fixed to the mast. On the lower area of the mast, take an M18 part and insert it. Apply cyano to adhere it and remove excess glue with paper. The final result should be this -repeat the process with the other three sails-:

Jar of cyano on hand! On the four holes of the deck to place the masts, apply adhesive and insert them. Use the steel rule to calculate the vertical 109 mm and to check the distance between masts. Also, it can help you position the masts while the cyan dries. The end… For now!

BUILD JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO MODEL SHIP: SHROUDS (PART I)

Step 17 when a modeler wants to build Juan Sebastian Elcano Model (22260), the Spanish training ship, talks about the ‘Shrouds’. Extract with a cutter and paint with off-white colour (27702) the eight WS1 parts. Grab one of these. With a pencil and a ruler, mark five equidistant points on the part. Put cyano on the part CT2 of 200 mm and glue it on the first marked point using Straight Fastening Tweezers (27020).

Repeat the process with the other three CT2 parts. On the last position marked with pencil, do the same thing with a 300 mm CT2 part. In total, there should be five threads attached to part WS1. Cut the excess of thread on one side of part WS1 with Thread Snips (27060). and paint off-white the glued part of the five threads with a brush.

Repeat this task again with the other seven WS1 part to get this:

It is time to glue those eight resulting parts. Take one and put cyano on the bottom. Glue the part to the edge of the hull, but be careful. The area where the threads are glued must look at the deck, that is, the part of the threads that are glued must not face the outside of the boat, but the inside. Repeat the process with the other seven parts so that it looks like this:

BUILD JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO MODEL SHIP: SHROUDS (PART II)

Take the longest thread -300 mm- from each of the parts and tie it around the tip of the nearest mast. Using a flat-grip plier, tie it securely by tying it into a knot and pulling the string so it is tight. Apply ciano to the knot made with the thread at the end of the mast and remove the excess of thread with Thread Snips (27060). Remember to repeat another three times this step on the other three mats.

Now do the same with the rest of the short threads -200 mm– but gluing them to the lower/interior part of the four tops. And finally, glue all the CT2 threads perpendicular to the already installed vertical threads. In this way, it will be ongrid mode. To do this, with patience, you must cut the threads with precision according to the height that you adhere them horizontally. And… Wow! Let’s have shrouds.

BUILD JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO MODEL SHIP: FIGUREHEAD & BOWSPRIT

We continue with Step 18 of Build Juan Sebastian Elcano model sailboat (22260). This is about the ‘Figurehead and Bowsprit’. Paint gold colour (27761) the part M19. Apply cyano to the inner bottom of the figurehead and stick it to the tip of the hull’s bow with your hands. Remember that if you want to place the Chilean emblem of the training ship Esmeralda, you must do the same with the part M20.

Then take the BSP part. With a ruler and pencil, mark the half of the part. Mark well with a cutter. With a manual drill and a 1 mm diameter bit, drill on the previously indicated place. Take a BW2 part and cut a 16 mm piece with Professional Straight Cutting Pliers (27212).

Take a BL part and surround the BSP part with your two wires. Help yourself with a Needle Nose Pliers (27213) for turning both ends of the wires around stick, tying the part to it. Get rid of excess wire once knotted to the stick. Repeat this process three more times on the BSP part. From the top point to where the hole is on the center of the stick. It is the turn of the part BW2, apply cyano in the centered hole made before and insert the part BW2.

By hand, fold down all four BL parts, apply cyano to the bottom end of the stick, and glue on the designated area. We already have bowsprit too!

MINIATURE REPLICA JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO SHIP: SAILS (PART I)

The ‘Sails – Part I’ is Step 19 of the video tutorial to build Juan Sebastian Elcano model ship. Take three parts S2, that is, three sails. Repeat the process you did on the ‘Masts – Part II’ section. In this case, the six parts are BR1 -small rings-. Place one part BR1 in one corner of the sail and the other five longitudinally and equidistantly on the other side.

Drill with a 0.75 mm hand drill the 4 masts at the height shown on the video. Pass thread -part CT2– through the five rings of the sail. Tie the sail with its thread to the top of the mast you are working on. Once the knot is done, apply cyano to it. Thread the other end of the sail string through the hole you just made on the next mast. Pull the thread until the thread and the sail is taut. Knot and cyano. Remove the rest of the thread with Thread Snips (27060). Repeat with the other two remaining sails.

Go back to the first sail placed, take more thread -part CT2-. Tie it to the first mast, above the top, at the height of the horizontal peak of the sail. Once tied, take it up to the second mast and knot it at the same height. Now the same thread, bring it closer to the third mast, and lastly to the fourth one. Help yourself to do this with Curved Fastening Tweezers (27021). Finally, put cyano on the fourth neck knot and cut the excess thread with our Thread Snips (27060).

MINIATURE REPLICA JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO SHIP: SAILS (PART II)

We continue with ‘Sails – Part II’, which is Step 20 of the construction of the model of the famous Spanish school ship (22260). Arrange a unit of parts S3, S4, S5 and S6, that is, sails. Take part S3, put nine rings -part BR1- on the longest side, and one on the corner. Then, take thread -CT2- and tie it at the end of the mast. Pass the line through the nine rings, tighten and knot it and glue it to the nose of the bowsprit previously installed. Repeat the same process with part S4, but with seven rings on the side and one on the corner. Remove excess string from the bowsprit of both sails. And the same with parts S5 and S6.

Next, more thread, this time, tie it to the point of the bowsprit, pass it through the metal -underneath the mast- and by the ring in the middle of the prow of the hull -the second-. Tie it there. Do the same with a second thread: knot it at the height of the rope of the third sail on the bowsprit, passes it through the upper ring and tie it. In all cases, remove the excess thread once tied. Repeat this process on the other side of the boat, so that the thread also enters through those rings. Finally, a third thread that will go through the lower ring on both sides of the bow.

Read the second part of the post…

Read the fourth and last part of the post…

Ship Models

R/C Tugboat Model Sanson: 2023 Edition of the 1:50 Scale Replica Now Suitable for Radio Control and Lighting

Posted on January 24, 2023February 17, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

First month in 2023, first surprise for our customers friends. After several years out of stock and off the market, the spectacular new edition of the deep-sea tugboat model ship is back, suitable for R/C or radio control, Sanson (20415). Our team of professional modelers and 3D designers have worked hard to exponentially improve this 1:50 scale model. A classic for any naval modeling collection. “You won’t have the slightest setback when it comes to building it”, assures one of Artesanía Latina members.

Sanson still is a faithful miniature replica of a tugboat from the 40s of the 20th century. However, its renewed assembly experience makes this boat a delight to build. The best thing is that, in addition to being prepared for radio control, it is also ready to light up, to include motor and servo, and… To be navigable thanks to the experience of the modeler who knows and decides to do it! We present the new model of the R/C tugboat Sanson on the video below, your jaw will drop at such beauty, such jewel of the naval modeling. Be dazzled!

R/C TUGBOAT MODEL SANSON: MORE REALISM

The model of the tugboat suitable for R/C Sanson is aimed at modelers with an intermediate level, at least. However, a beginner, with patience and paying close attention, could also assemble it since the instructions are on video. The different steps are explained in detail. The new guide on DVD is like a masterclass given by our modeller… A joy! As we mentioned in the introduction, your assembly experience is much more enjoyable and less difficult.

In addition, the model is much more realistic compared to its old version, thanks to three important improvements made and commented, among many others. In this sense, the Artesanía Latina team has completely emptied the structure of the model of the tugboat. The hull of the boat allows it to be both a static and R/C model by having the hollowed-out ribs and by offering a comfortable access to the interior. Please pay attention to the below images about it!

Our model has the stern deck is openable, that is, when we remove the support arches for the cables from their anchoring places, we can ‘disengage’ a part of the stern deck, access the interior of the hull to be able to work comfortably and, later, refit these parts without noticing anything unusual.

As you can see, you can add an engine to it to navigate. On our website, you can purchase a Low RPM Motor (27591) to move the propeller only during the exhibition of the model -this engine is not suitable for navigation-, for sale separately.

The modeler who wishes can also attach a servomotor -not available- that rotates the rudder blade.

R/C TUGBOAT MODEL SANSON: LIGHTING AND SMOKE

And the lights! The model of the tugboat suitable for R/C Sanson allows its illumination. Two LED bulbs can be placed at the engine room, one at the captain’s cabin, another under the skylight and three on the mast. Without forgetting its exhibition base, which didn’t even come in the old kit! To make your boat visible in the dark or at night, what’s better than to purchase our LED Lighting Set (27590) -for sale separately-.

We have also thought of another essential activity of this type of ship as if it were the real ship. We have designed it so that a smoke generation system can be included -the system is not included in the kit-.

R/C TUGBOAT MODEL SANSON: KIT CONTENTS

The naval modeling kit Sanson contains all the necessary parts for you to build your model: 7 high-precision laser-cut plywood sheets, as well as such as birch strips and round dowels, and oak veneer. By the way, it is the first kit that contains oak veneer, being Artesanía Latina a pioneer in including this hardwood in any model on the market.

In this way, the model is much more realistic, exclusive and avoids the use of wood from tropical forests. It also comes with 1 photo-etched plate with numerous and magnificent details, as well as accessories such as die-cast parts, brass round dowels, threads, wooden channel and much more.

For its assembly, you can follow our complete step-by-step video guide with graphic diagrams and others as well as many other information. The kit comes with a plan printed on both sides which, in addition to images of the vessel, includes a photographic parts list -another innovation from our firm-, as well as a QR code that leads to the Sanson playlist on our Youtube channel with all the videos of the assembly instructions.

Once it is built, the model measures 3.81” (605mm) length, 5.11” (130mm) width and 13.47” (350mm) height.

DEEP-SEA TUGBOAT SANSON: PERFECT FINISH

Finally, achieve the best finish with the Acrylic Paints Set for Sanson Tugboat (277PACK23), for sale separately. It contains 12 20 ml jars, each one with different and varied colors so that its faithful miniature replica shines. The drying of the paint after its application is fast.

Our model building friends have been demanding this model for a long time. They wanted the model of this tugboat from the 40s of the last century. This naval icon was characterized by its powerful 2,000 HP steam boiler. The vessel could develop speeds of 14 knots while coming to the rescue of much larger boats. It was a small-tonnage ship and low draft but with more than enough power and maneuverability to assist much larger vessels.

Well now… It is already at our warehouses, at your disposal! Build this beautiful and historic jewel of museum quality wooden model ship, the tugboat model suitable for R/C Sanson (20415) at 1:50 scale.

Model Building Tips

Elcano Model Set Up (II): Assemble with Our Videos the Faithful Replica in Miniature of the Spanish Training Ship

Posted on January 19, 2023February 2, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

We are back to show you the second part of Elcano model set up with other video tutorials made by our professional modelers. This faithful 1:250 scale miniature replica of the Spanish training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano / Chilean Esmeralda (22260) is aimed at beginners modelers.

ELCANO MODEL SET UP : UPPER DECK

We continue to accompany our modelers friends during Elcano model set up with Step 9, dedicated to the ‘Upper Deck’. Take the parts 5 and MD3 of the deck shown on the image. Next, apply our Cyanoacrylate for Porous Materials (27650), sold separately, around the edge of the top of the part MD3. Take part 5 and paste it on top of the MD3 as shown on the video.

Once the adhesive is dry, take a small flat brush and a jar of White Primer Filler (27701), sold separately. Paint these and carefully, paint the sides of the two joined parts. Drill with a 4 mm hand drill the central area to make a hole.

Then, paint all the parts M15 and start cyanoacrylate gluing each of the parts M15 and DM2 with off-white acrylic paint (27702). We remind you that you can purchase the complete Juan Sebastian Elcano Acrylic Paints Set (277PACK17). Once all the parts have been painted, glue them with parts 7, the two previously joined parts as seen on the video. Adhere also, without prior painting, the part M10.

Make eight small holes on the places indicated on the video. Using some Straight Fastening Tweezers (27020), place the eight parts M2. Lastly, cut the lower excess of these parts with a Professional Straight Cutting Pliers (27212). Finally, take another part M2 and put it on the roof of the middle cabin on the upper deck.

ELCANO MODEL SET UP: LIFERAFTS

Step 10 of Elcano model set up, the Spanish brigantine sailing ship, deals with the ‘Liferafts’. Take the part WD1 -4 mm in diameter and 10 mm long- and proceed to sand it down.

Put some cyano on two BR3 parts, which are sort of washers. Insert them into each of the both sides of the part WD1 with the help of a pair of tweezers. Finally, paint the joined part with off-white acrylic paint (27702). The end result is a DM4 part. Repeat the process eleven times.

ELCANO TRAINING SHIP MODEL: DECKS (PART II)

We continue on Step 11 of the Elcano model set up, the Spanish school ship. This is about ‘Decks – Part II -‘. Gather two parts M7, three piarts M2, one part M4, another M5 and one M9. Paint them with color off-white and stick them with cyan on the places provided for it on the video, specifically, on the foredeck .

Subsequently, take the two parts MBC – 30 mm long – and adhere them as shown. It is time for another collection: the one of two parts M9, two parts M12, two parts M21, one part M3, one part M10, two parts PE2 and two parts M2. Paint them in white and glue them as you have done a few moments ago, but in the consecutive part of the deck.

Again, repeat the process on the central part of the deck with four parts PE2 and two parts M9. Do the same on the fourth part of the deck with two parts M12, two parts M9, one part M2, one M3, another M10, two parts PE2 and two parts M21.

On the stern deck, do it with seven parts M2, two parts M7, another two M9 and two parts 7. To which you must add, two parts M3, another part M2, one M10, one M15, one M16, a part DM1, another DM2 and a last DM4. See on the video the beautiful final result of the placement of all the details.

JUAN SEBASTIAN ELCANO MODEL SHIP ASSEMBLY: BOW

The ‘Bow’ is Step 12 of the video tutorial for the assembly of Elcano trainingship. Take a drill of 0,75 mm and drill it five times on the forward hull, where our professional modeler indicates.

Using pliers, hold the eyebolts (parts M2) to be attached and apply a bit of cyanoacrylate at each one before inserting them into position horizontal in the holes.

ELCANO MODEL SHIP SET UP: TOPS

We continue on ‘Tops’, which is Step 13 of the assembly of the reduced model of the famous Spanish school ship Juan Sebastian Elcano (22260). Lay out one part 13 and one part WD1. With a file, sand the inner center area of part 13 as seen on the video until you can insert part WD1 through it. Take the part WD1 and paint with off-white and a flat brush the part 13 -use a pair of tweezers to hold the part while you do it-.

Next, remove the eight part 12 from your plank of wood. Sand the sides of all the parts before painting them burnt umber colour (27743). Let them dry.

ELCANO MODEL SET UP: BLOCKS

Let’s go with the video tutorial of Step 14, in which we will work on the ‘Blocks’. Using a scalpel cutter, remove all twenty-four parts BL from your wooden plate. Sand them on all sides, emphasizing the central part with relief.

Take a manual drill with a 0.75 mm bit and drill through the part BL from one end to the other. Repeat the process with the remaining twenty-three blocks.

ELCANO MODEL SET UP: MASTS (PART I – A)

Step 15 of the video tutorials in which our modelers teach the assembly of the model of Elcano / Esmeralda boat refers to ‘Masts – Part I’. Take two parts WD1, which have a diameter of 4 mm and five parts WD2, which are 3 mm.

You must cut and take four parts MA1 -diameter 4 mm and length 149 mm-, four parts MA2 -diameter 3 mm and length 91 mm-, eight parts PCL -diameter 3 mm and length 63 mm- and a part BSP -diameter 3 mm and length 90 mm-. Repeat the process with a part Y1 -diameter 3 mm and length 105 mm-, a Y2 -3 and 93 mm-, a Y3 -3 and 72 mm- and a Y4 -3 and 61 mm-. Varnish all the mentioned parts with water-based stain for sapele wood (27690-20), included in the indicated Juan Sebastián Elcano Acrylic Paints Set (277PACK17).

Then, cut a part of wire (SW part) with the Professional Flat-Cutting Pliers (27212), give it a U-shape and insert a block (part BL) into it through the hole made before. Surround the block with the wire through the slit, turn it until it is fixed with a Professional Needle Nose Pliers (27213). Do the same with another three blocks.

JUAN SEBASTIÁN ELCANO MASTS (PART I – B)

Take a part MA1 and a part 13 -before worked- and introduce the 13 through the hole from the middle of the MA1. Apply cyan near the end of the stick, and lay part 13 on top until dry, 15mm from the end of the stick. Use our Stainless Steel Rule 15 cms (27069) for it. Put, again, cyano, but this time on the final part of the mast and join a part 14 to it -previously painted-, put it on the tip of the mast.

After drying, insert a part MA2 through the other hole on part 14. Apply cyano so that it sticks to the part MA1 and to part 13 as seen on the video. Also put adhesive on part 12 and attach it to part 13. Repeat this last step with another part 12. Now, insert the part M18 -previously painted- through the lower part of the mast, calculate with the 15 mm rule, put cyano on the mast and glue it there. Drill a hole with a 0.75 mm hand drill on the mast, glue an M2 part -eyebolt- and insert it into the hole with the help of pliers.

ELCANO MODEL SET UP: MASTS (PART I – C)

Next, take a part BL -block with wire- and wind the wire with your hands and the flat-grip pliers to the top of the mast. Cut the excess wire. Repeat the process with another, placing it at the same height. Put glue on the two wires attached to the pole so that the blocks do not move. It is time for the part WB. Attach it to the top of the mast, above the two blocks. The modeler must do this task again until four masts are finished.

On the next post, we will continue showing our modelers friends how to continue building the model in wood and plastic of the Spanish training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano (22260). In the meantime, start building it now with us!

Read the first part of the post…

Read the third part of the post…

Model Building

Parkinson’s and Modeling: The Will to Overcome Obstacles for the Love of a Hobby

Posted on January 11, 2023January 12, 2023 by Administrador DelBlog

We start 2023 with a true story. This comes to reflect the spirit of overcoming human beings facing the difficulties that arise in life. You may be wondering what is the relation with our fans… Well, a lot! Not even the most serious illness stops man/woman’s will to fulfill his/her dreams and entertainment. Parkinson’s and modeling can also go hand in hand, although it is hopelessly and unfortunately trembling. Christopher Columbus, with his efforts, discovered America. Our dear modeler friend Frédéric Lavoine, with his passion, has conquered something more important: all our hearts.

It’s been almost two years without him being able to work in the beautiful profession of school driver that he left because of this terrible disease. Too many risks. He was 54 and a half years old when the doctors diagnosed it, but it seems that eighteen months earlier it began to knock on his door warning him of its presence.

PARKINSON’S AND MODELING: FRÉDÉRIC, THE REAL MCGYVER OF OUR TIME

Frédéric was brilliant at his job, and among people with disabilities and reduced mobility. Furthermore, he could never imagine that his “future working life would be reduced to the list of problems and difficulties caused by Parkinson’s”, assures our friend, who also emphasizes that he was “an active person with resources”, even his wife calls him McGyver after the famous television series in which the protagonist finds practical solutions to any problem. Without egocentrism, Frédéric is a “passionate lover of manual well done labor”, he says. Of course, he recognizes that the only thing that resists him is mechanics.

With all the pending things he has to do and now he can’t because he’s not able to deploy all his ‘superpowers’… A big disappointment for him. Frédéric’s world falls on him, a moving yo-yo in comparison to the perpetual activity of our friend. Painting a picture, reforming the cabin, restoring a piece of furniture, taking care of the garden… All that is over.

It is the moment in which Frédéric decides to take another course to continue being our particular McGyver. With this cold winter coming up where you spend a lot of time at home, you have to keep yourself busy. It is true that he was discouraged by the tremors of his hand and by the blockages of his joints. Medical treatments cannot give him a complete cure: “I didn’t want to draw or write in my book, I was stuck on the blank page”, says Frédéric. The ‘beast’ in the cage will start roaring at his wife and daughter, who encourage him to keep his hands busy sewing, which he loves. But it is not enough for him, so the memories of his childhood and his solidarity actions make him consider returning to modeling.

HIS NEW CHALLENGE, BUILD WOODEN MODEL SHIPS

“Build models with modeling instead of destroying as Parkinson’s does”, emphasizes Frédéric. That is their motto. Parkinson’s and modeling necessarily go hand in hand in his current life, but the passion for model building becomes his particular fight and his leisure against this serious disease. Our friend remembers that building “model ships, planes and cars was a true passion forty years ago”.

Of course, doubts about his ability to develop this hobby plague him: “Will I still be able to model, glue or paint such small parts?, he wonders. To which he answers that it will be his new challenge and that, to “complicate it even more”, he will assemble a wooden model ship. Because, for Frédéric and quite rightly, “if it were made of plastic everything is molded and formed, but with a wooden one you have to cut, mold, take time… Anything that is not compatible with Parkinson’s“.

PARKINSON’S AND MODELING: HEALTH BENEFITS OF ASSEMBLY MODELS

In December 2020, Santa decides to go down his chimney to give him “the magnificent naval modeling kit with the paddle-wheeled steamboat King of the Mississippi“, smiles Frédéric. As if he were a child with a new toy, he decides to quickly ‘inspect’ the contents of the box: “Lots of parts of wood, many small items -too many- and my shaking hand…” , says our friend. For this reason, at first, he leaves aside its assembly. It has to be his relatives who encourage him to start building the model and Fréderic sets up his ‘mini workshop’ at his office, as he describes it.

Since we already know that Frédéric is the McGyver of our time, of course, he doesn’t want to assemble the model “foolishly” following the plans for it. No, for what! :). So take the path of building a unique model, according to his taste. He begins in January 2020 and ends in May of the same year, barely 5 months later, quite an achievement from our point of view. In his own words, building the model is “an enormous pleasure” for him. He dedicates hours and hours to it, “not out of obligation but out of necessity”, he stresses.

Thanks to the King of the Mississippi, he forgets his hand tremor and the rest of his symptoms. This is due to, as Frédéric says, “the meticulousness and slowness of the tasks that the hobby requires”. Parkinson’s ‘disappears’ and modeling resurfaces after more than four decades buried. What’s more, these modeling demands act on Frédéric as “relaxing for the spirit”, exclaims our friend, who also asserts that, in this way, he recovers “harmony between body and mind”. What conclusion do you reach? That modeling is fully compatible with Parkinson’s.

PARKINSON’S PATIENTS MODELING ASSOCIATION NEEDS A PLACE WITH CEILING

Since he can’t sit still, he creates a modeling association for people with Parkinson’s, including its statutes and internal regulations. He calls it ‘Les Mains Agiles – Club de Modélisme’. Its main objective, very interesting: to share and teach other enthusiasts who suffer from this disease the love for the construction of static models. Frédéric even got to meet with the president of the Vendée France Parkinson’s Committee, Michel Parsy, who approved his initiative.

However, then a setback arises. Frédéric tells him about his difficulties in finding a place and opening a bank account as he is not a professional. Resigned at that moment, he warns us of what we already know: “For a bank and its owner, being disabled, no longer working and having weakened personal income do not give credibility to a president and his association”, he states emphatically.

With Parsy’s encouragement, Frédéric writes an article to present his project to society on social media and on the Inter’Park85 newsletter that belongs to France Parkinson Foundation. On the one hand, he needs a room or premises -a space with a ceiling and walls, in short- of at least 30 square meters. With one or two rooms and access for disabled people. This space must be in the city of La Roche -sur- Yon or its vicinity with a nearby bus service. On the other hand, obviously, he needs elements to equip it with basic materials and tools. Frédéric has ready a list of it.

In February 2022, due to the hieraticism caused by the Covid pandemic period, Fréderic had to dissolve the old association to create a new one under the name of ‘Une Main Vers l’Horizon – Modélisme’. Since then, he has been trying to give life to no avail.

HOW TO CONTACT FRÉDÉRIC LAVOINE?

Modelers Friends around the world and Artesanía Latina friends, let’s help Frédéric to fulfill his dream! No disease can against modeling lovers. In addition, this hobby has beneficial effects on the health of patients. So that the modelers can help him, he have given us an email in which you can ask what he needs that suits each one’s budget. Little by little or if there is a modeler friend with high purchasing power among us… The association for modeling with Parkinson’s must be a reality!

We kindly indicate Frédéric Lavoine email address: unemainverslhorizon@gmail.com