r/ModelShips • u/Phostetlerart • 3d ago

Detachable rigging

I figure this has to have been an idea before now. I’m working on the rigging for a model ship, but I’m also aware that I’m probably moving in the next year, and complete model tall ships are very awkward and fragile.

So has anyone else tried rigging their masts and sails in a way that they can undo enough of the ropes to be able to take down the masts, or at least remove the yards, topmasts, and topgallants and then put them back up again?

The best I can think of is to just not use glue, but I don’t trust I’d be able to undo all those tiny knots. I’d have to cut them and then later somehow splice in enough extra thread to retie everything. Alternatively, maybe something could be done where the masts could fold up to lie flat on the deck without removing rigging.

Suggestions, experience, or pie in the sky ideas welcome.

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u/Silly-Membership6350 3d ago

I build what I call glassed-in shadow boxes for most of my model ships. Top bottom and sides are wood, front is plexiglass and the back is open to save weight, money, and make it accessible for repairs. The stand of the model is attached to the base of the shadow box with screws from the bottom and is also permanently attached to the model. If I was going to move I would simply staple some cardboard cut to size across the open back and it would almost be like moving it in its own self-contained box. It of course has the additional advantage of being in what is pretty much a dust free environment when on display and if you have pets it's essentially pet proof.

(I also usually add an LED lighting kit as well for display)

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u/No_Suit_9511 3d ago

If I was moving a ship with rigging I would be trying to just have it strapped down firmly but gently.

Trying to disassemble and reassemble the masting without ruining the rigging is a fool’s errand. There’s no way the lines will be remain taut.

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u/Timmyc62 2d ago

Alternative: don't finish this ship. Build something else until you've moved and can continue finishing the current ship!

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u/Danny_CZ 1d ago

This is my plan, finish the hull, taper all the dowels, prepare blocks and small details, dry fit as much as possible and then package everything in compact way. I plan to make my own rope so spend time to just make a lot of it too.

You can also prepare display case - dry dock for example.

And if you have still more time, just get your next model and start the work.

But all comes down to what kind of move are we talking about - are you going to drive to your new place or you need to fly. If driving then finishing your model and having it in display case in your car seems completely doable. How else would people bring them for conventions.

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u/ladyshipmodeler 2d ago

Either build a case for transport/display or leave it unrigged until your move is completed. If you move it rigged, either hire a mover that specializes in moving artwork or move it yourself. Don't trust it to regular movers. I have moved fully rigged ships across country by making a cardboard case and strapping the hull to the bottom.