Scratchbuilding Tips

OK, I know that this will sound like a "NO BRAINER", but ALWAYS start with something simple.
If you can, find diagrams of what you want to build. and start with building what ever it is to the scale of the plans that you have in front of you.

If you tell me of a model that you want to design/build, I can help you do it without a computer, by showing you, not doing it for you, which is what I believe you want.. Ships are great to do like this.

Um, don't get me wrong, but you are reaching waaay tooo high. That model would require CAD, to say the least. To make a model like that, well put it like this, can you loft the Hull of a ship, or, make this very simple model, using line and paper, and a compass, straight edge and some french curves, (last picture on the bottom?). This diagram has all the information to make it (and the real ship, for that matter) using a pen, paper, and a straight edge. If you cannot do something like this, the Helicarrier is not possible. Even if you can do this, then we get into compound radii. How would you calculate that out? It's possible, with a calculator, but if you want to learn how to design, start small. All big models consist of many small models. It is having the ability to make those little models that leads you to the big models.

If you want to start on an open Sharpie style rowboat, that would be a good place. If you can love the Hull of a ship, that turns into the part of a spaceship that has a similar shape. To do it completely manual, access to source material is paramount, otherwise, you are just guessing. Here's how this boat looks Rendered.

I have found a very useful simple CAD program, and it is FREE. It would behoove you to spend time learning this, as you could theoretically, achieve your goals much quicker.

Get this. Link = http://www.hydronship.net/download.htm

Get the version on the middle of the page that has this written next to it. Ir reads, Release version FREE!ship Plus : v3.4 - full 31.3 mgs.





using the dimensions and pictures below?

You don't use Windows!?! There is virtually nothing for non Windows machines. What do you use?

Cforrest900 said:

@zathros

I use a Mac. Is Blender a good option to use?

I would like a program with an unfold tool, as I can't use Pepakura on here either, do you know of any. I've tried the google sketchup unfold tool , but have never gotten it to work

Click to expand...

Yes, Blender does have a version for Mac. I found this for you:
http://download.cnet.com/Blender/3000-6677_4-38150.html

Good luck with it and please let us know how it works for you!

As prices of PC's are getting ridiculously cheap, I really suggest getting a decent desktop P.C, desktop. You can do far more with P.C.'s than with Mac's, this has nothing to do with preference, but reality. You will struggle to do with Mac's to do what is commonly and easily with a P.C. Windows based machine. Why limit yourself? In this hobby, or C.A.D., in general, P .C.'s rule, more freeware is available to you, and I mean professional grade freeware. The first program I sent you a link to is capable of using to make full size ships.

I don't help people out with Mac's much because their inherent incompatible nature makes it a waste of time for everyone involved. I can show people how to make models with a pencil, proper drawings, a compass and rule, that is easier than using a Mac.