The National Archives seems to have lost the spar deck plans for the Merrimack. So this model was built using the Minnesota and Wabash as inspiration. A cut away and hull lines are available and I used those as much as possible.
I would love to have this ship in the Gallery, but can you make photos of the ship with a neutral background with no clutter? If not then I understand.
Paint with wood tan let dry WELL, paint with light gray, let dry WELL. Sand with various pressure with 220 grit sandpaper, Then lightly with 400 grit. Seal with a Flat clear. NOT "MATTE" it is not the same as flat (at least in my experience).