While everything on HMS Bustler is trying to dry/harden in the sub tropical heat here in Scotland I thought I would put something else onto the slips ,decided on a cargoship /tramp steamer from the 30s-40s will call it Arctic Convoy as a tribute to the gallant men who endured so much.
Started with the main decks and boat deck that I can do in the warmth of the kitchen,the drawings showed steel decks but being a true Scot if I spend a couple of pounds on a 1000 coffee stirrers then I'm going to get my moneys worth, so decided to give the ship wooden decks.
Hull frames are marked out ready for cutting will post pictures of the Hull later on .

Donned the fingerless gloves and the furry hat and braved the cold shed to cut the frames (wife wouldn't let me bring the wee bandsaw into the kitchen) all frames cut and sanded ,the base should be 1" balsa ,I used an old shelf of light wood that was the same thickness ,frames glued in place and deck supports added,did some work on the chart room and flying deck.

Trial fit of the decks ,they actually look a reasonable fit ✨,if I remove the excess less 1/4" all round where the holds are this would give access for any rc gubbings.

Been a while (internet problems)Have made some slight alterations ,added some extra stringers to take the main deck drilled the main deck and fitted 5mm acrylic pegs ,will post pictures later .super fast internet !don't make me laugh.

While waiting for bits to come decided to stain the decks ,wee tip :- stain them the same colour your other half wants the window surrounds done in 🤣🤣🤣.,a rub down and another coat tomorrow

Well prop shaft arrived in the post ,postie must have sat on it it has a very obvious bend in it the rudder is also the wrong size , will take it on the chin can't be bothered sending them back to China will see if model shop in Edinburgh has something.

Just throwing ideas around Though of giving Arctic convoy a Dazzle cammo paint job ,found a couple of interesting schemes.
Cheers Marky

Thanks to my friendly laser cutter person 200 little gusset plates in 2 minutes ,some now glued round holds .

A little coat of paint fairly brought it altogether,a special thanks to Mr Lee at my local Chinese restaurant for the masts (chop sticks).
Cheers Marky

Thinking slightly ahead after cladding the Hull I thought of doing plating in either card cereal boxes or ice cream tub type plastic ,the question is ,if using the cereal boxes which surface would be outside the printed side or the inside of the box ?

Cheers Marky👍