Who We Are
The Model Shipwrights of Western New York is an enthusiastic group dedicated to research of all types of historic water craft. This includes gathering archival data, lines drawings, period documentation, and employing both traditional hand skills and modern fabrication technologies.
Model Building Spectrum
Our members engage in all forms of ship modeling:
- Kit Building: Commercial scale kits from leading manufacturers worldwide.
- Kit Bashing: Enhancing commercial kits by replacing generic parts with authentic, research-accurate scratch-built fittings and woods.
- Scratch Building: Creating entirely custom models from raw lumber, brass, and plans from museums and historical archives.
- Paper & Card Modeling: Highly intricate architectural and vessel card models.
- 3D Printing & CNC: Utilizing resin printing and computer numerical control milling for micro-scale parts and rigging blocks.
Supported Venues & Partnerships
We began meeting in 2017 at the Military History Society Museum of Rochester New York. The executive director and staff have generously provided us a welcoming venue, and our guild has proudly supported museum events, educational exhibits, and museum model restoration projects over the years.
Authentic Hull Construction
Planking, framing, and interior detailing by guild members.
