I looked for other parts I could add before putting on a coat of polyurethane. The first are the extra planks on the floor of the helm area. I created a template so that I would have perfect spacing between each piece.
Category: Ship building
Virginia 1819 build log – Part 14
The final hull planks have been added. I consider this a major milestone.
Virginia 1819 build log – Part 13
The stem, keel, and stern post have been attached and the second, final layer of hull planking has been started.
Virginia 1819 build log – Part 12
The bulwark pieces were soaked and allowed to dry with the proper curves. Then they were glued into place. I paid the greatest attention to the size of the opening at the bow, making sure it was sized to allow the bowsprit through. At the center of the ship, the edges of the bulwark did not match the top of the upper strake of hull planks, as you can see below. Wood filler was used to patch areas between the bulwarks and hull, then sanded smooth.
Virginia 1819 build log – Part 11
At last the hull planking was finished. Some good, some bad. The worst spot is at the bow, where it was difficult to hold the planks firmly in place, even when the planks were pre-bent.