The modelling of ships is a fascinating hobby because it has such a tremendously wide field of choice both geographically and chronologically. Its appeal to craftsmen and artist, youth and age, student and sage, rests on sure foundations; for it is inexpensive, it is within the reach of all and, although within the reach of all, it still permits very broad standards of artistry, science, and craftsmanship. Some years ago, while organising a huge shipping exhibition for the City of Liverpool, I decided upon a novel competition to popularise the ship model part of the exhibition. Competitors were invited to submit ship models wherein the materials had cost not more than three shillings. The results were amazing in ingenuity, craftsmanship, and popularity. I feel sure that really fine models can be constructed for less than ten shillings. Unlike the model engineer the requisite tools are few and comparatively inexpensive. Some friends of mine, good modellers they are, manage along with a favourite knife, spokeshave, small hacksaw and a few files (tiny ones) and some razor-blades. With these few things they consider themselves well equipped.
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