WIP: Bermuda Sloop

[bluenote07]

Hi all. This is the first project I've posted. I am trying to create a Bermuda sloop using a small prefab hull with two middle sections. I have built several ships to play Evil Stevie's Pirate Game, and I wanted to build something to fill in this size range in my fleet. This is a prototype of the front half that I whipped together. I apologize for the blurry pictures. Suggestions or comments are welcome!

[PlzStopImScared]

Looking good so far! Can`t wait to see more!

[bluenote07]

Looking good so far! Can`t wait to see more!

Thanks! I got impatient waiting for my last hull section to come in, so I built up the stern section and left a spot for the last hull piece. I also lowered the bowsprit and moved it slightly forward, and adjusted the boom and gaff a bit. I would appreciate any feedback on any aspect of this build. I realize it is a humble project compared to most on this forum, but I am still building confidence and skill for something larger. Here are the new pics:

[Mister Phes]

The hull is well underway, what have you got in mind for the sails?

[bluenote07]

The hull is well underway, what have you got in mind for the sails?

I have some medium-weight canvas-looking cloth. I am thinking of including a topsail, 2 jibs and a big 'ole gaff sail on there. Not quite sure of the mechanics yet. I'd appreciate any suggestions though! I have made some further upgrades - will post more pics when I have time.

[Mister Phes]

I have some medium-weight canvas-looking cloth. I am thinking of including a topsail, 2 jibs and a big 'ole gaff sail on there. Not quite sure of the mechanics yet. I'd appreciate any suggestions though! I have made some further upgrades - will post more pics when I have time.

Sounds good!

[bluenote07]

My last hull section arrived today -- here is the current version with red decorative elements. I am wondering if the dragon wings and railings might be a bit too ostentatious? Also, I would appreciate any general comments on how this is turning out. As my first MOC, this project is an experiment and I would certainly like to improve my skills. Next up: Sails!

[Mr. Townsend]

Some good progress going Bluenote07. I do think that the dragon wings are too much on a ship of this era as well as the red atop the rails up front. The red rails at the back however I think fit well. It would be nice to see a lantern set in place of the red dragon plume that is on the taffrail. I do wonder if you could get some old gray to finish out the line of old gray off the prefab hulls.

And though you may dislike me for saying so now after you've received your second mid section I feel she would look better shorter. Normally on a Bermuda sloop the

spanker booms would end at the taffrail or after.

If you followed this reference you would shorten it to one mid and set the mast back a few studs. Also look at the bow and see how the jib boom is set.

I apologize if this seems a laundry list but I think you could accomplish a very nice looking ship with a few small tweeks.

[kurigan]

Sorry to get here late. I meant to add to this sooner but I’ve been very busy. I like were your going and what you have so far. It’s a nice start. I do have some things to suggest. Much of it’s been said but I’ve had it prepared, so why waste it? Without any other gray on the hull, the upper halves of the pre-fabs are distracting. Perhaps consider adding more grey. On this type of rig your first head sail should fit between the bow and the mast. With your mast so far forward the jibs will be too far out and the main sail won’t be far enough back. Take a look at Mr. Townsend’s image; you’ll see the mast is significantly farther back, almost amidships. On a similar note, the fighting top should move up the mast. Where it is it would interfere with the luff of the main sail. If you still want to stick with the Lego shrouds, it looks as though the longer variety would be about right. The prow and other embellishments are neat but seem more appropriate for a galleon.

[bluenote07]

Some good progress going Bluenote07. I do think that the dragon wings are too much on a ship of this era as well as the red atop the rails up front. The red rails at the back however I think fit well. It would be nice to see a lantern set in place of the red dragon plume that is on the taffrail. I do wonder if you could get some old gray to finish out the line of old gray off the prefab hulls. And though you may dislike me for saying so now after you've received your second mid section I feel she would look better shorter. Normally on a Bermuda sloop the spanker booms would end at the taffrail or after. If you followed this reference you would shorten it to one mid and set the mast back a few studs. Also look at the bow and see how the jib boom is set. I apologize if this seems a laundry list but I think you could accomplish a very nice looking ship with a few small tweeks.

Sorry to get here late. I meant to add to this sooner but I’ve been very busy. I like were your going and what you have so far. It’s a nice start. I do have some things to suggest. Much of it’s been said but I’ve had it prepared, so why waste it? Without any other gray on the hull, the upper halves of the pre-fabs are distracting. Perhaps consider adding more grey. On this type of rig your first head sail should fit between the bow and the mast. With your mast so far forward the jibs will be too far out and the main sail won’t be far enough back. Take a look at Mr. Townsend’s image; you’ll see the mast is significantly farther back, almost amidships. On a similar note, the fighting top should move up the mast. Where it is it would interfere with the luff of the main sail. If you still want to stick with the Lego shrouds, it looks as though the longer variety would be about right. The prow and other embellishments are neat but seem more appropriate for a galleon.

It looks like you guys are in agreement that the mast placement could be improved and the hull color needs more grey. I will definitely take these suggestions into account for my next steps -- Thank you both! This is exactly the kind of expert advice I have been hoping for

[Mister Phes]

My last hull section arrived today -- here is the current version with red decorative elements. I am wondering if the dragon wings and railings might be a bit too ostentatious?

The dragon wings with the red and black colour scheme reminds me of the Fright Knights...