Received the first pack and I have started the build here in the USA. But first a few comments. I built the San Felipe back in 2014 as my first build for experience. Comparing this kit to the San Felipe I find the packaging, instructions and quality of the parts to be much, much better. I can’t wait to get started.
I’m sure I have my work cut out for me. The transom decorations will be a challenge. I was expecting them to be larger than what I actually received based on the pictures in the instructions. So, painting them will take a steady hand and patience.
I have ordered 3mm mini Amber LED lights from Amazon and will try to incorporate them into the build. My plan is to put 6 around the edge of the deck (3 each side), 1 or 2 on the stern and 2 in the cabin area. All powered by a 9-volt battery. Wish me luck, this will be my first attempt at lighting.
After completing the first pack I have the following comments.
1. The fit is very tight so remember to clean-up any glue that oozes out to prevent problems when fitting future parts.
2. Assemble all parts for each pack before painting any figures. Paining the figures all together at one time this allows you to use the same paint color without cleaning the brush.
3. I found a magnifying glass to be essential when painting the figures
4. I erred in selecting a matte paint. A gloss I think would look much better. I will continue with the matte paint.
I'm unable to resize the pictures, sorry

Hi Billy,

A great start there, the Vasa is a wonderful ship to build and I'm looking forward to seeing your lights, always like some lighting.

Just a thought but if you wanted gloss paint in the first place you could always apply another coat of gloss over the matt. I'm looking forward to seeing more; happy building.

Great start on the Vasa looking forward to seeing your progress
Martyn

Thanks for the encouragement. I've worked on the photos and finally got them to show although they are large.
The reason I picked this ship was the colorful artwork. The matte paints I'm using are not working to show this so after sleeping on it over night I'm going to redo and repaint what I've done. I'll post before and after pictures of the color changes I've made.

Pack 2 now complete

Important with this step is the lighting I've added. Need to do it at this step before the decks are laid.

Using copper 1/2" strips as conduit for a 9 volt battery. Picture shows the lights lit up. Wiring is not pretty but will all be covered up when the deck is laid. Lights will come up through the deck along the sides and a couple at the bow and more aft.

Painting is difficult as the parts are so small. Even using a magnifyer. So I'm off to the hobby shop to find smaller brushes

All looking good Billy, neat and tidy work..... .. Agree with you on the painting of the decorations, they are pretty small and take some patience to do. Look forward to your next update.....

Regards

Alan

More lighting done. I'll be lighting only one side of the ship, the main cabin and along the deck.

Cleaned up the wiring. Added masking tape to the battery leads to secure them since the battery is a critical part of the lights.

Agreed, well done Billy. The lighting should work well

Very nicely done. Really good to have another Vasa under way
Martyn

Nice work Billy, looking good.

Graeme