The Cux 87 "Krabbenkutter {introduction}

     I can't believe how one wooden kit can lead to another.  this has turned into a new religion for me.  when I received the Nordkap from my friend, he had started it, only building the framework.  he had lost the hardware kit, as well as his interest in finishing it.  when I felt that all hope of finding the fittings was gone, I decided to look for them on my own.  I was cautioned about sinking too much money into the ship, or it would dash my intentions for it.....to give it back to my friend once it was finished.  my search took me to a Billing Boat's site in Denmark.....and then to a site in Wisconsin.  the warehouse was operated by a fellow by the name of Tom Richardson.  he was very friendly and helpful.....in a few short e-mails, he let me know that he could get them for me.  I was very happy with the news.  during this time, he asked me if I could do a build log on the Nordkap for him, which I agreed....seemed the least I could do to repay his kindness.  he later asked me if I would be interested in doing a ship for him, to use at his shop and at trade shows, but I declined because of the fact that I didn't have enough experience with wooden ships.  a few build logs later, he asked me again about it.  I was still kinda shy, but he assured me that after seeing my logs, he was sure that I would have no problem producing a fine build.  questions were asked and answered....details were worked out and I agreed, after all concerns were put to rest.  I left it up to him as to what ship to send and it was the Cux 87 "Krabbenkutter" that won the vote.  this is a German crabbing boat, complete with booms and netting.  I received it, along with my order of extra nails {brads} to have on hand and the hardware kit for the Nordkap.
     the kit is very nice, 1:33 scale, all parts are laser cut from basswood/plywood sheets for easy removal.

     there are a couple more sheet to it, but I've already removed the parts from them.  it also included a rather large sheet of the rigging and outfit design of the ship.  I want to frame it!

     this should prove to be a fun build.  I waited to start on it until I had the proper measuring tools.  now that I have them, we will begin on the odyssey to explore the Cux 87 and the steps I have taken to build it.  I thank Tom for the opportunity to expand my knowledge of wood craft and I hope that I succeed in creating a piece worthy of the trust he has placed in me.........ahoy!