Check It Out:

As one of the oldest activities, model ship building has developed a following of dedicated hobbyists. From hand-carved wooden replicas to remote-controlled battleships with working cannons, model ships vary in size, type and complexity. As accessible as the hobby is, it is one that requires dedication, patience, attention to detail and a steady hand. Despite the work involved, the hobbyist is rewarded with satisfaction toward a job well done. The library has a variety of materials on model ship building. Some offer an overview and history, while others give specific instructions on how to get started.

“Ship Models: Their Purpose and Development from 1650 to the Present” by Brian Lavery and Simon Stephens: Lavery and Stephens’ book charts the historical development and meaning behind model ship building; some of which may surprise you. Several different models and the famous individuals who made them are represented in an easy-to-read format accompanied by wonderful photographs of model ships, each one varying in complexity. For the avid hobbyist, this book contains a catalog of the National Maritime Museum’s collection of model ships.

“The World of Model Ships and Boats” by Guy R. Williams: Guy Williams explores the history of model ship building covering hand-carved designs from as early as 2600 B.C. to the motorized models of today. This text comes with a large supply of beautiful photographs, presenting more than 200 intricate model ship designs of every shape and size. Such presentation allows Williams’ book to be a useful resource for hobbyists and casual observers alike.

“Ship Modeling from Stem to Stern” by Milton Roth: A great guide for beginners, Roth’s book covers everything a newcomer needs to know about model ship building. All aspects of ship construction are here: types of kits available, preferred paints, glues and tools, and the best practices for applying a ship’s rigging. For the more adventurous ship modelers, the text offers a quick-start guide to constructing a ship inside a bottle. Roth’s book is a useful text for novice hobbyists, but is also a fine resource for modelers of any skill level.