BUILDING HALF MODELS
The practice and pleasure of carving half-hull models.
- ERIC DOW — SEPTEMBER 21–27
There are few products of woodworking as exciting to behold as a well-done half model. It reveals the character of the boat it represents at a scale that can be admired at a glance and appreciated for a lifetime. Half models are a wonderful way to remember a boat of the past or to dream about one of the future.
Half-hull modeling is both a practical way to enjoy woodworking with limited time and tools, and a tangible way to grasp the intricacies of boat plans. To carve for yourself and mount a half model is to forever capture a design in three dimensions.
In this week of hands-on participation, you’ll explore the tools, techniques, and materials for half-model making from lines plans: the woods; the glues; the chisels, gouges, spokeshaves, and planes; the paints and varnishes. The first part of the week will be devoted to carving one particular design, and the second part to carving a model of your own choosing. While the first teaches the skills, the latter encourages confidence and style. Eric loves to make half models; and over the many years he has taught this course, he has earned high marks for his teaching style, and ability to give everyone just the right amount of personal attention needed.
Besides creating two models of your own, you should learn a lot about boat plans and gain a feeling for the long tradition of half-hull modeling—and go home with the ability to build more on your own.
Tuition: $650
Material Cost: $120
Note: Materials fee covers wood for two half models and one set of plans.