Bantha II cargo skiff from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Scratch build)

[ennder]

For a long time I have been wanting the Skiff from ROTJ. So I went looking for a model. I could not find one, but found lots of pictures I could use to build one. So working with a few as a base, here is my build. I used the top view for the floor. I then added ribs to the bottom to get the contour I wanted. I then skinned it. Texture is not easy for me. I then layered the floor tiles and added the island. The Skiff is 31'-2", the model is 10". so that makes the scale approximately 1/37

 

[Sky Seeker]

For a long time I have been wanting the Skiff from ROTJ. So I went looking for a model. I could not find one, but found lots of pictures I could use to build one. So working with a few as a base, here is my build. I used the top view for the floor. I then added ribs to the bottom to get the contour I wanted. I then skinned it. Texture is not easy for me. I then layered the floor tiles and added the island. The Skiff is 31'-2", the model is 10". so that makes the scale approximately 1/37

Love the build!
I say you're doing pretty good with the textures. That rusted bottom portion looks pretty realistic. Although I wonder how things rust in a desert environment...

Sky Seeker
:tank:

 

[zathros]

That texture is awesome, as is the piece itself!!

 

[bigpetr]

Great model. Maybe texturing is not easy for you but looks realy good.

 

[Revell-Fan]

@ennder, this is awesome! I had no idea that the ship was called this way. To me it was always the Desert Skiff. Geez, and you make it in about 1/37...

So here's a question to @ASC Mclaren : What would be the approximate scale when you print it at 200 %?

That would look excellent beside Hasbro's upcoming Sail Barge. Remember, the Kenner Skiffs are too small for 1/18. This one could indeed fill a gap.

P.S.: I have edited your post and inserted the images as "full images" so that the fans don't have to click on the thumbnails all the time to see them; I hope you don't mind.

 

[ASC Mclaren]

Oh, you know I did that math in my head when I read the post

 

[ennder]

Thanks all I didn't think about increasing the scale to match the Kenner figures until today... maybe next rendition. I will be able to find the trouble spots with this build and maybe I won't have as much trouble next time.

Thanks for increasing the image size RF thumbsup

 

[zathros]

My eyes glanced over the deck pics thumbnails, so I now must double my accolades, you are really off to a fantastic start!!

 

[ASC Mclaren]

Thanks all I didn't think about increasing the scale to match the Kenner figures until today... maybe next rendition. I will be able to find the trouble spots with this build and maybe I won't have as much trouble next time.

Thanks for increasing the image size RF thumbsup

The first thing to consider when planning a build is how to make the model 1:18, just sayin'

 

[Rhaven Blaack]

This is really looking good! For a scratch build, you are doing a GREAT JOB!

 

[ennder]

I got some more done. I built a frame work for the nose, then glued the card stock on, then trimmed the card stock to fit.
To me, this was easier then trying to draw the part, cut it, then praying it fit. I did this all in that horrible orange rust texture.
I was able to make a much better texture, so I overlaid both the nose and the bottom. I also finished and installed the handrails.

 

[Rhaven Blaack]

That is really coming together beautifully!!!

 

[RonaldoM]

I loved the texture. A great one, no doubt !

 

[zathros]

I wish there was abetter click than "Like", the nose framework is most impressive. You really are building a superb model, from the inside out!!

 

[DJPinter]

Very nice!

 

[ennder]

Thanks everyone. I got to find or make some weaker clamps. When I clamped the texture to the nose frame the closing force
of the clothespins was to much for the glue soaked cardboard to handle, and it bent in several places. I was able to fix it, but I had to
go and get some CA glue to do it with. I'm allergic to CA glue. The fumes make my skin break out and itch.
I do have a very good respirator that I wear when I use chemicals, so no breathing problems from the CA glue.

 

[Papa Mashy]

Looks amazing. All scratch built from pictures too.
The level of ability on display here shows that you do yourself a disservice saying you are not good with textures!
Bravo. Claphands

 

[zathros]

Please be careful with CA glue, the effects are accumulative. The model looks fantastic. You can make your own clamps using clothes pins and small wood screw. Instead of spring tensionm you screw the clamps to the tightness you desire, just like carpenter clamps. Base your design off of the picture below.

 

[Sky Seeker]

I got some more done. I built a frame work for the nose, then glued the card stock on, then trimmed the card stock to fit.
To me, this was easier then trying to draw the part, cut it, then praying it fit. I did this all in that horrible orange rust texture.
I was able to make a much better texture, so I overlaid both the nose and the bottom. I also finished and installed the handrails.
View attachment 167525 View attachment 167526 View attachment 167527 View attachment 167528 View attachment 167529 View attachment 167530

Incredible! This is MOST impressive!!rinks:

Sky Seeker
:tank:

 

[ennder]

UPDATE: I've not had much time to work on this project over the last few months.
But yesterday I was able to get some work done on it. I got the console roughed in.
and the back cowling made.