Tosa Wasen - 1/10 scale 20' Japanese Boat from Thermal Studio

Joined
May 23, 2013
Messages
159
Points
38

I finished this model early in the year, but only recently realized that I didn't post any photos here.

This is a 2' long 1/10 scale model kit of a traditional 20' long fishing boat from a Japanese company called Thermal Studio. The kit parts are predominantly laser cut, which works well, considering the hull is made up of only 4 laser-cut planks, plus the bottom and transom, of course.

The wood is Japanese cedar, which is beautifully aromatic. It is the same wood that is used in the actual construction of Wasen, or Japanese traditional boats.

It was a pleasure to build. The instructions are in Japanese, but they are well illustrated. The manufacturer only sells direct. The kit runs around $150 shipped. If you're interested, simply email the manufacturer with your address and tell him you want to buy one. He'll give you the total cost for payment by Paypal. Don't be too wordy or get complicated in your email, or it will just cause a lot of confusion. The manufacturer understands simple english.

The great thing about this kit is that is goes together very much the way the actual boat does. Some building aids simplify construction, like the use of a removable former when shaping the hull. But, building this kit, you'll get a pretty good idea of how these boats went together.

If you want to know more about Japanese wooden boatbuilding, check out http://www.douglasbrooksboatbuilding.com and get his book. It's a bit pricey, but it's a fascinating and informative book.

Clare
 
Wow. Pretty neat and simple looking vessel. I bet the cost of shipping is a much as the cost of the kit. One that looks good and right without painting.
 
Hi Gary,

The wood used is actually very lightweight. The cost of the kit was around $130 and the cost of express shipping was about $24. So, it wasn't bad at all. And, delivery was a matter of days.

As for the finish, well, the whole bottom is painted, but I know what you mean.

Clare
 
Back
Top