The Masts

This model is of a two masted ship. The fore mast was created first from a dowel of the right diameter (which is small) and then tapered with some delicate sanding to a narrower top that is able to accept the mast cap which allows the addition to the fore top-mast. In the photo below you can see the finished (besides attaching to the model and running the rigging) fore mast and the beginnings of the main mast. The completed for mast stands nearly 12 inches tall which is just a bit shorter than the main mast will be when completed.

The bottom of the for mast was painted white up to 1/2 inch and the main mast will have the same although there will be more detail to be completed later. top of the fore mast has a good deal of detail. There are three simulated iron bands and a hand full of hand made eyebolts, which are actually very tiny. The photo below shows some of these details with a penny in the shot for added perspective.

I have been working on the main mast a little more after completing the for mast and the details at the top section are even more so. There are four iron bands (all made of pinstripe tape) and the V at the top which is where the main boom will attach during the rigging process. This mast is mot yet finished, but a detail shot if the top as well as what will eventually be the display base for the ship are in the next photo.