FAQ's

Do you provide shipping to my country?

Yes, modelshippinter ships to most destinations around the world via TNT and Postal Tracking Services. We have happy customers in all corners of the globe. Once you select your region you will be advised of the shipping and handling fee.  When entering your address details in the shopping cart please ensure you select the correct country from the drop down menu.

Do I need any previous modeling experience?

Many of our customers have never built a model before contacting us. We suggest if you're a first time modeler you start with one of our Starter Packs as these will provide you with a manageable kit to build as well as the essential tools and a comprehensive eBook and 5 DVD practicum set.

What tools are needed?

We offer a beginners tool pack which contains all the tools your will need to get started with your hobby. You can find the Beginners Tool Pack Here. We also provide a range of tools for the more experienced modeler.

Do I need any books?

All our kits provide instructions which tell you what to do. We have the book "Beginners Guide to Model Ship Building" in soft cover or CD version. This book covers all the key aspects of model ship building including - selecting a model, tools and workshop setup, understanding scale and drawings, hull planking a sharp & bluff bowed hull, deck planking, masting and rigging.

We also offer an extensive range of DVD practicums with demonstration and narration by master modelers on all aspects of model ship building. 

Why buy a model ship from an internet based business?

We specialize in wooden model ships and carry a larger range of stock than the local hobby shop.  We offer a personalized service for all your modeling needs.  We have customers on every continent including Antarctica.

Should I built a kit or make a model from scratch?

We recommend that first time modelers build a kit. Kits have the advantage of introducing modelers to the approaches and techniques of wooden model ship building. For people who decide to build from scratch we recommend that you have access to a very good workshop, range of tools, and are able to make your own planks and most of the fittings yourself.

What is double planking?

This is a simple method of applying two layers of planking to the hull, instead of one. The first layer is usually limewood, or a similar timber which is soft and easy to work with. The second layer is thinner and more decorative timber such as walnut or mahogany. This layer looks beautiful when varnished. The advantage of this method is that any ‘hills’ or ‘hollows’ or mistakes  in the first layer can be leveled off before the second layer is fitted.

Do all models have sails?

Generally models in which sails are not shown in the photograph do not have ready made sails or cloth and patterns in the kit. When a photograph of a model does have sails, either fully set or furled , sail cloth and a pattern is supplied in the kit. Some of these kits do have ready made sails supplied in the kit. For kits that do not have sails or sail cloth supplied we can supply ready made sails for your model at an extra cost.

Is a display baseboard included in the kit?

This depends on the manufacturer. Generally Mantua do not include a display base in their kits, however some do have a simple ply cradle. Most other kits do have a display base of some sort, but it may vary from that shown on the lid of the box. A decision on the final display baseboard can be left until the model is complete.

Is it better to paint or clear vanish?

That’s up to you - most kits have been designed with a variety of naturally colored timbers, with the idea that you will use a matt or satin vanish finish. Varnishing can be easier than painting.

Is a name plate included?

Sometimes. If you are wondering whether the kit you wish to purchase has a nameplate, please send us an email.  We can supply name plates at an extra cost.

Which models are suitable for a child?

We offer a range of models for children, just check our website under Children's Kits