Hull/ planking wood types. Beginner
Congratulations, and welcome to a great hobby.
Balsa is probably the best wood to use for a first time modeler. It is a lot easier to cut and pin to the bulkheads during gluing. Depending upon the thickness of your balsa strips, the use of large pins will tend to split the wood. Use a good quality waterproof wood glue. I have a small plastic bottle with a long thin spout which I use to dispense the glue.
I found it is best to use a small amount of glue during the initial pinning to avoid getting the balsa too wet and risking the piece to warp. Once the initial joint is dry, a glue fillet can be put on the inside of the bulkhead and the strip to further secure the joint. Take your time!! Don't rush the hull build.
Glue the planks evenly on both sides of the hull starting on the bottom at the stern working toward the bow. A curving hull can be tricky. If the hull is to be painted, then I would lay the planks straight, and fill in with shorter pieces cutting to fit the gaps. If the planking will be seen, then a wood steaming method may need to be used to shape the wood around the curves. More experienced Modelers than I would be able to instruct you through this method.
Waterproofing the hull after planking needs to be done as well. I use an auto body filler compound to build up dips and fill small holes. Be sure to also paint the inside of the hull to protect the balsa wood in case water get in while operating. After painting the hull the final color, i seal the paint with a clear acrylic inside and out for further water protection.
Remember, this should be fun. Don't give up if it doesn't turn out the way you envisioned. Everyone makes mistakes. Use them as learning tools for your next build. Don't be afraid to try other methods on future builds.
Chris
