I mostly build aircraft but decided to build Revell’s North Sea fishing trawler. It’s an older kit, and if you like working on seams, this is the kit!
I need to do the rigging to finish it. I’m thinking of using the small EZ line or invisible thread. Any recommendations?
The instructions are vague as to how the rigging attaches to various points. It looks like it’s tied off on the railing at certain points, but I doubt that is correct. How the rigging is attached to the masts is also unclear. Looking for suggestions, thanks!
Take a look at images of the Ross Tiger. She’s the museum ship in Grimsby, and pretty close to the model. I couldn’t find a lot of on-deck shots.
The rigging looks to be wire rope, set up using shackles and turnbuckles. Typical for a steel ship from the 1950’s.
I’d avoid any visible knots. And you’ll want a net. These “sidewinders” had their net rolled up along the side, from bow to stern.
You’ve got some leeway, since studying photos of similar vessels online shows a fair amount of variation in rigging schemes. (I’m doing the same kit in its ‘Russian Spy Trawler’ release, so mine will have ‘extra’ stuff in the way of aerials and antennae.)
EZ-Line is an excellent choice for rigging—just be sure to ‘tension’ the lines equally as you install them, so flexible-plastic masts or spars don’t gradually get pulled off-kilter over time.
As to attachment, support lines like guys and stays are usually secured to decks or solid structures like deckhouses. Aerial lines may occasionally be run to railings—or to leads near to railings—but keep in mind that, on a working fishing vessel, care should be taken that most rigging is well-clear of movable booms and nets and such.
GMorrison’s comment on deck photos is all too true: trying to piece together what ‘working gear’ should look like from scant and grainy photos is a real challenge.
Good luck with your project!
Great, thanks! The rigging in the Revell instructions is much more basic than on the actual ship. At least it gives me a starting point.
And it does need a net, it’s a fishing trawler. Any thoughts on what would work at that scale? Fruit netting from oranges or lemons is too big, maybe nylon stockings. I’m a single guy, might have to work on that. Guaze?
Gauze is probably too large a mesh. Something between stocking mesh and tulle (bridal veil) should do fine—check your local craft or fabric store, it’s fairly inexpensive.