Construction Plate for 1/700 Models

[biff4204]

I wanted some way to better handle a 1/700 ship model when the construction phase reached adding a number of small photo etch detail parts. I took a piece of � x 1 � lath, and drilled a clearance hole for a #2-56 screw. I then glued a thick piece of styrene that had been drilled and tapped to accept a #2-56 screw inside the hull. The hull was then screwed onto the piece of wood that now allowed me to handle the model safely and securely. This plate also was handy for the painting phase. Scotch blue masking tape could be used instead of 2-56 screws although I think the screws make everything more secure. I�ve also used this type of plate for 1/1200 models.

[MatthewB]

Where do you get 1/1200 models (please don't say Navis/Neptun)?

MB

[biggles2]

For water-lined 1/700 I glue the upper hull to a piece of sheet styrene, just a bit bigger than the model. That remains part of the model and gets covered with "water" when placed in a dio.

[biff4204]

Mostly scratchbuilt out of either balsa or basswood.

[biff4204]

I should have been more specific. I used plans from John Bowen's book Waterline Ship Models and plans from Modelcraft 1/1200 Maritime Plans.