Where to Start? New to building Tugs

[Jimd0586]

Good afternoon all.

 

I work for a tugboat company in the USA and have for years wanted to build a model of one of our tugboats. I have no clue where to begin, what materials to use, how to shape and build the model. Does anyone have any knowledge or wisdom they could share? I know what I am asking for is basically trade secrets on tugboat model building, but I just don't know where to begin.

 

A bit about me: I have been building and painting plastic models for a few years now. I would say I am above average in skill but not show quality. Scratch building appears to be the name of the game for tugboats as they are so varied in size, style, dimensions, etc. I have access to blueprints of the tugs I would be building. It is my family's company so I have a strong devotion to the final product.

 

Regards,

 

Jim

[longshanks]

I would suggest first decision would be what size would you want the finished model to be.

 

This gives a scale to work to, are commercial fittings available / required.

Size of model will also guide you as to what method of hull construction.

 

Any chance you can post a pic with some key dimensions?

 

Kev

[Courageous]

Another thing to consider is if you're wanting to add figures. Figures can give you context and add scale but they only come in certain scales.

Kev has his 1/200 tug build here:

And I also a 1/100 tug build here:

 

Stuart