Building Viking Model Ships for Fun and Relaxation
The Vikings were a European group of warriors who hailed from the North, or Norse region. Their reign lasted from approximately the 8th to the 11th century. The Vikings were best known for their ships which they used for travel and conquest. They settled various areas of land and gained a reputation as not only seagoing traders but fearsome pillagers as well. Because of the lasting Viking legend and the amazing vessels they traveled on, Viking model ships are a favorite of many hobbyist builders.
There are three main categories of Viking vessels. The Knarr is the large vessel used for trading and transport of humans, animals and goods. Karv are small boats used for exploration purposes, while Longships were utilized by the military. Within these three categories were more detailed variations through the Viking Age. If you would like to build a Viking ship, you will need a kit containing detailed plans. Luckily, there are plenty of them out there. Check with hobby shops in your area or do some online shopping.
Wood is a popular material for Viking ship models because of its realism and beauty. Many of today’s models are made from metal or especially plastic, although these materials don’t lend themselves to Viking boats very well. Your wooden ship may need to be painted or stained, although you can of course choose to keep it natural. If you’re a newbie to model building, choose a kit that is especially designed for beginners. A more advanced kit can be very difficult and frustrating for many new builders.
Once you’ve decided you want to start building Viking model ships and have chosen your first kit, you should locate and prepare your workstation. The area should be ventilated with plenty of fresh air and an exhaust fan should be used if you have one. Lighting is also important, as you will need to see small details and read your plans. Cover your work area to protect it from glue or paint spills, and gather your supplies before beginning. Most kits will contain everything you need to construct a model, although you may want to buy additional materials like quality paintbrushes or tweezers for handling small parts. You may be unsure of yourself in the beginning, but with practice you’ll become an efficient and experienced model builder!
