Lead Adventure Forum

Miniatures Adventure => Pulp => Topic started by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 02:15:00 AM

Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 02:15:00 AM
Over on this thread, the idea of a contest of sorts was brought up.

http://forum.backofbeyond.de/viewtopic.php?t=2118&start=15

I'm starting a new topic for it here so that those who wish to participate can. The idea is to build a Tramp Steamer. We need to come up with some guidelines and I'll toss a couple out now and we'll narrow it down.

1.) Steamer must be at least 12" and can be no more than 24" (60mm) in length.
2.) Participants must chronicle the steps in its construction.
3.) Hull and cabin must be scratch-built, though detail pieces can be purchased.
4.) The members of Lead Adventures will vote on a winner and I'll come up with some prize for it (though I will also build one so I may get to give a prize to myself).  :mrgreen:

Any other thoughts and who would like to participate? Once we have that information, we can choose a contest deadline.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on July 25, 2007, 08:24:40 AM
Should the finished model be painted or not? (A good paint job could mask a bad model and a good model could be hidden by a sloppy paint job)

I suggest a deadline of 31st august. That gives the contestants one month.

Regrettably I will not be taking part, I'm on holiday again soon and I don't think I have the time or the necessary skills to build this. But its a great idea. Well done Rich for suggetsing it. :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on July 25, 2007, 09:05:59 AM
Hmmm, are we focusing on the scratch building part of the exercise, or the finished product?

A one month deadline is pretty aggressive but is (gulp) doable I think for a basic, unpainted scratch built 12" long tramp steamer. Having a deadline does tend to focus the mind wonderfully too I guess. It'll probably stop me from creating all manner of hand cast resin pieces too which probably isn't a bad thing :)

Imho maybe the finished product should be assembled and primed, and the final voting taken on that basis. Simply because that seems to be the best way of comparing oranges with oranges? As Malamute mentioned a good paint job can hide a multitude of sins, and a mediocre paint job can hide the world's best scratch building...
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Auton on July 25, 2007, 09:11:14 AM
Should the interior rooms be accessible? It would mean a lot more work if the ship has to come apart for  access to them
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 11:08:18 AM
I'm thinking a deadline of 15 September (I have GenCon coming up so I can't do anything until after the middle of August). Not that you need me to take part, it's just a suggestion and gives everyone an extra couple of weeks.

Interiors can be accessible, but it is not necessary. That choice would be left up to the builder. Let the voters judge whether it makes the ship better or not.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: walktapus on July 25, 2007, 11:55:17 AM
I am in !

15 September is OK.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on July 25, 2007, 11:58:24 AM
I agree with Tabletop - the model should be primed but not painted as per the reasons above.
Good luck everybody :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 12:06:49 PM
Well, let's just wait to hear if Overlord and/or TJ are in and anyone else today, then I'll figure out some kind of prize (it won' be anything huge, but enough to make it interesting).
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Mainly28s on July 25, 2007, 12:36:34 PM
I'd like to enter BUT...

1) the deadline is too tight (I'm busy renovating my house at the moment, so need to finish that before I can do wargame modelling)
2) the size limit cuts me out, as I've already got my plans ready to do an 800mm long steamer...

Olaf
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Geudens on July 25, 2007, 03:50:59 PM
Quote from: "Malamute"
I agree with Tabletop - the model should be primed but not painted as per the reasons above.
Good luck everybody :)


You can have the best of both worlds: submit pics of the primed model ànd of the painted one.  Reason being that when one scratchbuilds an item, one usually has a particular colour scheme in mind.  Votes can still be based on the primed model if you wish.

Rudi
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TJSKI on July 25, 2007, 04:11:12 PM
Count me In, and I like the September deadline better than the August 31st. Right in the middle of august I have to drive my son to college out in Kansas from Arizona, so I will be driving that whole week.

I also like the idea of being primed only, as some have said, paint can hid many flaws or cover up many details.

Let the ship building begin!!!!!!

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on July 25, 2007, 04:20:03 PM
I fear that I may have had a hand in starting this when I initially posted:

Quote from: "Neldoreth"
That doesn't look like it would be too hard to scratch build :) And it would definitely be cheaper!  :)  :)  :mrgreen:  :)  :)

I would love to see some scratch built ones, and I would do one myself, but I don't play this period.... :/

n.


I wonder if I should participate; I could add to my already substantial collection of unused 28mm ships!

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/content/corsairPaint/images/corsair3.jpg)

I would totally use the concepts I used to build the above, outlined in the following articles:

Building a Corsair Ship (http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/?view=articles&which=corsairShip.php)

Finishing a Corsair Ship (http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/?view=articles&which=corsairPaint.php)

hrm... should I enter this contest? should I give it a go? Can someone help me talk myself into this please?

Thanks!
n. :mrgreen:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: iago on July 25, 2007, 04:22:27 PM
Quote from: "Neldoreth"

I would totally use the concepts I used to build the above, outlined in the following articles:

Building a Corsair Ship (http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/?view=articles&which=corsairShip.php)

Finishing a Corsair Ship (http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/?view=articles&which=corsairPaint.php)

What are you doing? You're helping the potential competition!! :P
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Mainly28s on July 25, 2007, 04:26:25 PM
Do you really, really need to be convinced? You sound as if you're more than half-interested anyway!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TJSKI on July 25, 2007, 04:31:18 PM
Neldoreth,

You need to enter so we can see more updates on your site, I love your stuff man, and you need a Pulp section anyway.

So saying that you need to enter, unless your...Chicken :wink:

So I dare you...no no I double dog dare you! :twisted:

We can't let Rich when since he's supplying the prize!

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 04:31:53 PM
A Lead Adventurer needs to be convinced to start another project!  :o

We may have to revoke your membership card and take away your bathroom priveleges. :D

As for motivation, there is the mystery prize that I'm pondering.  :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on July 25, 2007, 04:36:26 PM
Rich - I bet the mystery prize is still a mysteryto you too! :lol:

Go on Neldoreth - you know you want to, you are just playing hard to get :lol:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 04:53:23 PM
Quote from: "Malamute"
Rich - I bet the mystery prize is still a mysteryto you too! :lol:


Yeah.. maybe... so what of it.  :lol:

I think I know what I'm going to do, but we'll see after this weekend.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TJSKI on July 25, 2007, 04:54:03 PM
Okay so far here is what we have for guidlines for the contest:

1.) Steamer must be at least 12" and can be no more than 24" (60cm) in length.
2.) Participants must chronicle the steps in its construction.
3.) Hull and cabin must be scratch-built, though detail pieces can be purchased.
4.) The members of Lead Adventures will vote on a winner and I'll come up with some prize for it (though I will also build one so I may get to give a prize to myself).
5.) Primed only
6.) Deadline September 15th

Did I miss anything???

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Jase on July 25, 2007, 05:08:28 PM
Sounds very tempting! Although I have no knowledge in this shipbuilding area whatsoever, I'll wiki tonight to find more info.

If there were tramp steamers in Darkest Africa you can practically count me in as well.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on July 25, 2007, 05:13:51 PM
Quote from: "Operator5"
Well, let's just wait to hear if Overlord and/or TJ are in and anyone else today.

Some of us have to work for a living without spending all day surfing the net!  :cry:

Count me in. The September 15th deadline is better for me too.

(With the amount of flooding locally, its probably only a matter of time until my front garden resembles a dockyard anyway! The 24" limitation means that I won't be able to use it to pop down to the local shops  :lol: )
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Poliorketes on July 25, 2007, 05:14:01 PM
Quote from: TJSKI
Okay so far here is what we have for guidlines for the contest:

1.) Steamer must be at least 12" and can be no more than 24" (60mm) in length.
24" is 600mm/60cm...
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Skrapwelder on July 25, 2007, 05:26:21 PM
Count me in.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on July 25, 2007, 05:41:51 PM
All right, count me in as well. But I have a couple suggestions for the rules, please feel free to disregard them ;) I would like to make this a cooperative thing instead of a competition. From my experience, competition pulls groups apart and I like you guys way too much to face off against you in a competition  :mrgreen:

We could have a prize that is given out randomly, in which case all who participate will be eligible, and also forgo the voting all together :) If we work cooperatively we could build some nice stuff for sure! Either way, I will submit an entry, but ask not to have it eligible for voting. I will try to have mine done before September, as well as an article, so that people can use it and take inspiration from it, and perhaps build something better :)

Thanks to everyone for helping me decide to do this, I appreciate it :)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on July 25, 2007, 05:54:16 PM
I may do this one! Not only are there great pics of it, there are great pics of the interior on the site as well! I mean, I will make mine more trampy, but still!

http://www.eastcoastyachtcruises.com/loc_neweng.html

(http://www.eastcoastyachtcruises.com/images-old/islander1.jpg)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 05:58:56 PM
Neldoreth: The competition will of course be friendly. I'll be posting my step by step along the way so people can freely glom ideas from me. The competition part of it more like sport than cut-throat. We'll be able to egg each other on and such.

I find that having some ultimate goal, other than finishing, helps keep people on track. And with all the Lead Adventurers voting, we don't have to worry about the results being skewed (unless a German enters in which case you KNOW they'll all vote for him.  :lol: )

In the end, the whole goal is to show how to produce a great tramp steamer from scratch.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 06:01:31 PM
Quote from: "Poliorketes"
24" is 600mm/60cm...


Doh! CM, MM I transpose those all the time. It's people like me that caused the whole Mars Beagle project to fly off course.
Title: My Ideas
Post by: TJSKI on July 25, 2007, 06:52:17 PM
Okay,

I updated my blog, http://cursedtreasures.blogspot.com/ with the contest ideas.

I have choosen to do 1 of 3 steamers or at least use them for inspiration. Those are:

1. S.S. Venture from King kong (Peter Jackson)
2. Bantu Wind from Indiana Jones (Raiders of the Lost Arc)
3. Steamer from The Mummy

I found pictures of the first two, but no luck on the mummy steamer, so if anyone can be of help that would be great.

I'm also thinking of doing the ship in either wood (3/8th" MDF & Plywood) or I have a ton of PVC flat plastic and styrene, have to see what I have enough of. I also plan on having a hold for large creatures & the upper decks be removable so I can use the interiors for games.

So there you have my ideas, now I wonder what i got myself into :o

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on July 25, 2007, 07:23:59 PM
This one has lots of character:

(http://www.nzcoastalshipping.com/Cargo%20Ships%20Matipo%20Noumea%20lagoon%2019%20jul%201993%20by%20Yvon%20Perchoc.jpg)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Jase on July 25, 2007, 09:19:24 PM
Would this classify as a Tramp Steamer?

(http://[img]http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c30/JanSenten1982/tramp2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[img]http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c30/JanSenten1982/tramp1.jpg)[/img]

These pictures are taken from one of my favourite comics, called Franka.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on July 25, 2007, 09:22:38 PM
Neldoreth, what a piece of junk! I love it...that's exactly the paint scheme I was thinking of trying to replicate for the hull...

Jase, I was thinking of using the 'Sirius' from Tintin in 'Red Rackham's Treasure'. Mainly because it contains a number of excellent ship and deck shots and the Sirius itself is around the size I want to build for my tramp. So I can't see why yours wouldn't qualify.

Oh and if we're posting past ship builds...here's my past ship (http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/archives/2005/05/06/374/). A 28mm wooden ship based on a scaled down plan from Wargames Foundry...which I still haven't finished painting!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Mainly28s on July 25, 2007, 09:22:43 PM
Quote from: "Jase"
Would this classify as a Tramp Steamer?

(http://[img]http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c30/JanSenten1982/tramp2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[img]http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c30/JanSenten1982/tramp1.jpg)[/img]

These pictures are taken from one of my favourite comics, called Franka.


Reminds me of Suske & Wiske's style too. And yes, I'd call that a tramp steamer.

Olaf
Title: All the Contestents
Post by: TJSKI on July 25, 2007, 09:44:50 PM
Okay,

It looks like we have the contestents, If I forgot someone let me know...

Operator5
Tabletop
Walktapus
TJSKI
Neldoreth
Jase
Overlord
Skrapwelder

8 folks, anyone else?? let the ship building start! :mrgreen:

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 09:46:43 PM
And anyone else is welcome to jump in when they want. The more people building, the better the results can be. You could start Septermber 1st if you were feeling ambitious and can sinish by the 15th.

 :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TJSKI on July 25, 2007, 09:54:56 PM
Rich,

Arn't you going to Historicon this year? If so maybe you can hit up Bob Murch or Lon Weiss for some of their Tramp Sailors for the prize. After all the winning steamer is going to need a crew! :)

Damm, now I'm going to have to buy that U-boat that Lon sells!

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Mo on July 25, 2007, 10:07:15 PM
Rich SHOULD have coincided this with the 'Lost Worlds' book he's planning here soon. Tramp Steamers and forgotten islands go hand in hand.

 :)

Marc
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 25, 2007, 10:08:04 PM
Quote from: "TJSKI"
If so maybe you can hit up Bob Murch or Lon Weiss for some of their Tramp Sailors for the prize.


Shhhh! Don't spoil the surprise.  :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: walktapus on July 25, 2007, 10:25:32 PM
Have to check the good old Tintin comic books

(http://ybocquel.free.fr/images_creation/500_case_herge_1.jpg)

Quote
Sirius (Red Rackham's Treasure), Karaboudjan (The Crab with the Golden Claws), Aurora (The Shooting Star), the Ramona (The Red Sea Sharks). Isis (Cigars of the Pharaoh); Sereno, Allan’s ship (Cigars of the Pharaoh); Scheherazade (Red Sea Sharks), Ramona (The Red Sea Sharks), Speedol Star (Land of Black Gold); The Pachacamac (Prisoners of the Sun)

(from http://tintin.eugraph.com/tqsect/wriquiz/quest/index.html)

Not sure they all are steamers though...
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Plynkes on July 25, 2007, 10:43:06 PM
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y40/Plynkes/atsea.gif)

This National Maritime Museum book is a good one for details of the various Tintin ships, as amongst other things, it documents all the various ships, boats and submarines featured in the books, often with photos of the orginal vessals that Georges Remi used for inspiration.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on July 26, 2007, 10:07:52 AM
Yeah Walktapus, that's the Tintin 'Sirius' (in the background) I was going to base mine on.

I've done some preliminary planning tonight on paper and mine comes out to almost exactly 2 x A4 sheets long and a shade narrower than that which would make it roughly 60cm long by 20cm wide, or just shy of 2 feet long!

Augh - it's a monster! Although most of that is flat deck space because I want to use it for Pulp gaming of course. Hmmm, I doubt I even have enough raw materials around to build at that size...going to have to shrink it a touch I think.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Morten on July 28, 2007, 12:25:08 AM
im in  :wink:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Jase on July 28, 2007, 06:04:06 PM
Anyone knows website where I can find specific information on the type of riversteamers they used in Darkest Africa expeditions?

And, somewhat on the same wubject, where can I find all those pencildrawings of colonials etc, that I see all over the place?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: matakishi on July 29, 2007, 12:47:38 AM
I'll do my best to find some time to join in. I've been planning a cargo ship for some time.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on July 29, 2007, 10:00:16 AM
Just to keep the ball rolling, here's what I have so far. Constructed from foam board, 4mm balsa wood decking and 2mm card + dress makers pins for the hull sides. The pins make excellent structural elements with the added bonus of looking like rivets. The ones you see so far are just holding the 'hull' on while the PVA dries, but I'll probably be applying quite a few more for effect.

I'm trying to get the basic superstructure out of the way asap to keep me motivated. Then I'll probably have the most fun building the cabins/wheelhouse/cargo cranes and detailing the deck. The focus is on not actually creating a scale model of a tramp steamer, but rather something that could pass for one from 3 feet away ;).

The bow is going to be interesting to construct due to it's reasonably complex shape and while I've created a hole down to the hold I'll probably just build a cover over the top of that and be done with it.

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer1.jpg)

Comments are welcome and how's everybody else going?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on July 29, 2007, 04:07:25 PM
I had already started a bit of research before this Competition started so thought I would pass on some of what I found.

http://landandseacollection.com/id299.html
http://home.att.net/~kopfj/ShipModels/LakesGrampus/LakesGrampus.html
http://www.bevs.org/diving/wkgenera.htm
http://www.tin-soldier.com/paper/freightersm.htm
http://www.tin-soldier.com/freighter.htm
http://www.kartonwerft.de/gowerian.htm
http://www.movieweb.com/movies/film/94/894/gal2240/06.php

Finally a site with loads of ship photos but you need to sign up to view the gallery: http://www.shipsnostalgia.com/gallery/

Lead Adventure has always been a source of inspiration for projects and the community spirit prevails to bring out the best.  Hopefully some of these links will be of use to others.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on July 29, 2007, 06:11:42 PM
Wow Tabletop! I'm going to have to get cracking after GenCon with this. You start is beautiful.

I know rougly what materials I am going to use, just need to get the actual design formulated.
Title: Tramp steamer contest
Post by: Captaingeneral on August 01, 2007, 12:41:08 PM
Yes Tabletop it's looking good so far. :love:

Here is my attempt at a 'Sand Pebble' type ship for our riverine actions :oops:

Not strictly a tramp steamer but i thought you might like to see it.

Foam board construction
(http://captaingeneral.co.uk/Steamer%201.JPG)
Simple paint job
(http://captaingeneral.co.uk/Steamer%202.JPG)
Lift off roofs show cabin interiors
(http://captaingeneral.co.uk/steamer%20interior.JPG)
Pulp steamer crew
(http://captaingeneral.co.uk/Steamer%20crew.JPG)
More crew
(http://captaingeneral.co.uk/Steamer%20crew%202.JPG)

Needs a lot more detailing ...sigh :cry:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on August 01, 2007, 02:40:05 PM
The pictures of the WIP of both ships so far are very inspiring! I am liking what I am seeing! Currently I am in the 'Should I paint another fig or start on the steamer' phase of construction... Looking forward to seeing more from you guys :)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Hammers on August 01, 2007, 02:43:22 PM
I cant participate since I started my project months ago. And I do not work well with my hobby projects when I have to adher to deadlines.

Here she is so far:

(http://www.adventuregaming.tsome.com/dampferer_stage2.jpg)

In addition to what you see I have sheeted the decks and added details.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Captaingeneral on August 01, 2007, 05:22:21 PM
Wow  :love:  :love:  :love:
HS that is a pity - this looks a really great model, my poor efforts are nearer toy status, merely providing a platform for the adventure to continue. :twisted:

But I know what you mean by deadlines, they make you get things done, sometimes at the cost of standards. :roll:

We must see your vessel as it progresses.

CG
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 01, 2007, 09:31:21 PM
Wow Hammershield that is impressive...particularly that you bothered to build belowdecks!

I like the hull sides as well. Is that individual sheets of plasticard? Good lord how long did that take you?!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Hammers on August 02, 2007, 07:48:22 PM
Yes it is plasticard. There is a thread on it somewhere.

It hasn't taken me that much time. It ie really easy transfering a papermodel to plasticard.

What you see is not true belowdeck, they are just bulkheads to get a proper shape and rigidity to the hull.

Progress is slow at the moment as I am just back from my wedding and honeymoon.

CHeers.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Grimm on August 02, 2007, 08:30:07 PM
:o  :o  :o  :love:  :love:  :love:

these are amazing stuff !!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 06, 2007, 02:48:09 AM
Once again to keep the ball rolling. I've built up the bow, decked and surrounded the hold of my tramp steamer.

Now I've got to the hard part. Building the cabins, funnel and detailing the whole thing!

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer3.jpg)
Title: Overlords Tramp Steamer
Post by: Overlord on August 09, 2007, 08:27:16 PM
I finally got around to starting my steamer last night.  Just at the early "mock-up" stages so far,  but I have a good idea of what I am trying to acheive.  Its loosely based on the SS Venture but wont be exactly the same.  The idea is to get a good impression of a steamer thats suitable for miniatures gaming, rather than build a detailed scale replica. She is 24" long and 6" wide, hopefully giving plenty of room for figures to run around on.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip03.jpg)

I was going to call it the SS Adventure, in keeping with the forum but, whilst I was working on it last night I was watching/listening to the space shuttle launch on the NASA website ( http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html ) So will now name her the SS Endeavour.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on August 09, 2007, 08:52:20 PM
Looking good guys, your stuff is all very inspiring! I am still in the planning phase for this. I finished my latest miniature (http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/armies/adventurers/SeleneFIN.jpg) and now it is time to focus on the steamer. I will post something as soon as I have something!

So, I am going to use this project to get better acquainted with MDF, and try to build the steamer almost entirely out of it. MDF is cheaper than foam board and sturdier... But it is a lot harder to cut, so we will see how it goes :)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 09, 2007, 10:04:05 PM
Overlord, looks like you're off to a good start! What are you using for a funnel? Looks like some kind of brass cannon shell! I'm inspired to get cracking on my cabin work...

Neldoreth, what thickness of MDF are you using? Around 3mm MDF is excellent imho. You can cut it with a sharp knife and hand sand it easily. It's all I ever use for basing terrain.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on August 09, 2007, 10:26:20 PM
Quote from: "tabletop"
Overlord, looks like you're off to a good start! What are you using for a funnel? Looks like some kind of brass cannon shell!

Well spotted  :o  .  Its a brass case from a 30mm Aden cannon round, acquired  :wink:  when I was in the Royal Air Force http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/mauserandaden.cfm .

It won't be forming part of the final model.  I was using it for the mock-up as it was easily to hand and had enough weight to it to stop the mini's over-balancing the precarious card superstructure.  The final ship will have a funnel of a cardboard tube of some kind (a bit more boring and routine)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TadPortly on August 10, 2007, 09:38:22 AM
Quote from: "tabletop"
Once again to keep the ball rolling. I've built up the bow, decked and surrounded the hold of my tramp steamer.

Now I've got to the hard part. Building the cabins, funnel and detailing the whole thing!

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer3.jpg)


Looking good - love the detailing like the nails in the deck and the railings are really cool
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 12, 2007, 05:44:38 AM
Thanks Tad, alas that's just a fortunate accident. Those are actually the guide markers I ruled before ruling the deck lines with a ballpoint, but turning them into actual nail holes is a fine idea which I'll gleefully stea..err borrow!

Made some progress on the upper decks this weekend. Here's the first floor of the cabins, and the start of the second floor of deck. That'll have a small wheel-room behind the walkway. Painting all this 2mm cardboard will be interesting...I hope it doesn't warp.

I also want to make some original resin pieces for the port holes and all the dogged hatchways. Plus a couple of anchors and some ventilator funnels (if I get around to it)!

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer5.JPG)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on August 12, 2007, 09:04:28 PM
A bit more progress today:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip04.jpg)  
I cut the deck top from a piece of 5mm balsa sheet, and the bottom of the ship from 5mm foamcore.
A layer of 50mm polytyrene was sandwiched between them.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip05.jpg)  
 As the top and bottom are different sizes, locating holes were made in each and bamboo skewers used to align everything in the "jig".
I then formed the shape of the hull using a hot wire cutter using the two outside layers as a cutting guide to ensure a clean cut.
This worked out better than I had ever imagined.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip07.jpg)
Additional pieces of polystyrene were cut, reassembling the "jig" as required to cut each piece.
I then cut out the access for the hold from the balsa deck the cut a slightly larger hole in the polystyrene.
This hole was then lined with card to form the sides of the hold.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Captain Blood on August 12, 2007, 09:12:31 PM
Polystyrene! Good thinking. You can be sure this one will at least float. That must be worth a few extra points!   :wink:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 13, 2007, 12:52:52 AM
It's nice to see all the different techniques people are using.

Although seeing that hot wired polystyrene form I have to admit I wish I'd remembered I have a couple of slabs of high density blue foam kicking around in my garage!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on August 23, 2007, 07:14:03 PM
The layers of polystyrene and balsa have now been re-assembled in the correct order and glued together.
I've covered the polystyrene with a layer of thick card (similar to Tabletop's ship).
I knew making the stern a more realistic shape would make things more difficlt for me, but it wasn't as bad as I was expecting.
I also used dressmaking pins to help secure the card to the hull form.  It was definately needed at the bow and stern to hold the card in place until the glue dried.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip10.jpg)

I'm now starting work on the superstructure and a few items of detailing.  I don't want too much stuff in the way of the miniatures, so will try to keep this to a minimum.

Apart from Tabletop, has anyone else started construction?  :roll:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on August 23, 2007, 07:36:07 PM
Quote from: "Overlord"
Apart from Tabletop, has anyone else started construction?  :roll:

I hope to spend some time next week on mine.  :?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: walktapus on August 23, 2007, 08:29:42 PM
Quote
Apart from Tabletop, has anyone else started construction? Rolling Eyes


When is the deadline ?

I am waiting for the last moment possible, so I can copy all your clever ideas :-)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on August 23, 2007, 08:32:43 PM
Quote from: "walktapus"
When is the deadline ?

I am waiting for the last moment possible, so I can copy all your clever ideas :-)

September 15. So about 3 weeks left. At least the thing doens't have to be painted.  8)
Title: Life Stinks!
Post by: TJSKI on August 23, 2007, 10:18:46 PM
Well I had hoped to start on my ship by now, since Im back from taking my son to college in Kansas.

But it looks like with getting my game room up and running (the kids old bedroom), painting the walls in the house for the wife, and assembling a huge Chaos army for a friend, there just dosn't seem to be any more time in the day! Also I need to do the proof reading on LotHS so we hit the release date in Oct.

So in a nutshell, it looks like I will not be getting around to building a tramp steamer anytime soon! but the plus side is I get a whole room dedicated to gaming with a custom built table! So I guess its not all a loss...

TJSKI
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 25, 2007, 03:47:32 AM
It's kind of ironic that I've stalled on my tramp steamer then! And all I have to do it complete the wheel house to finish basic construction! Ok, maybe tomorrow (Sunday for me) night I'll get out to the garage and finish the cabins...
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 28, 2007, 10:19:26 AM
Basic forms of upper and lower decks done. Now comes the hard part...detailing it all before the deadline!

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer7.JPG)

Guys, is anybody else building their steamer? Anybody?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Prof.Witchheimer on August 28, 2007, 10:37:38 AM
looks great, tabletop!

would really like to take part in the competition but building of such sort of things isn't really my cup of tea  :(
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Hammers on August 28, 2007, 10:47:05 AM
I am to, but not as part of the contest. I am for the moment struggling with how I can  make or purchase ventilation funnels which look convincing.

For my project they must come in three different sized and they are a paint in the ass but  not really worth casting in resin as I only need two of each.

Is anyone aware of a company which sells scale funnels of various sizes and scales?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Westfalia Chris on August 28, 2007, 01:32:39 PM
Quote from: "hammershield"
Is anyone aware of a company which sells scale funnels of various sizes and scales?


Look here, for "vents":

http://www.billingboats.com/fittings.htm

Found two sizes, 35 and 20mm, although there might be more. Billing Boats has been the object of much ridicule in ship modelers´ circles, but when we are building pretty toys, it doesn´t really matter if the wheel is a millimetre too thick to be historically correct.

I also bought a bag of large-ish (40mm or so) vents and used some on the tramp steamer I built for the Prof. Plastic and rather cheap (list price some 40 €-cents apiece, mine reduced 50%. Don´t know the manufacturer, might have been Robbe, or Graupner. Krick seem to do higher-priced ones, or price only on request, which always makes me cautious.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TadPortly on August 28, 2007, 02:14:33 PM
Quote from: "hammershield"
I am to, but not as part of the contest. I am for the moment struggling with how I can  make or purchase ventilation funnels which look convincing.

For my project they must come in three different sized and they are a paint in the ass but  not really worth casting in resin as I only need two of each.

Is anyone aware of a company which sells scale funnels of various sizes and scales?


does this help?

http://www.westbourne-model.co.uk/graupner-model-boat-fittings.asp
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Westfalia Chris on August 28, 2007, 03:14:55 PM
Yes, those are the ones I bought. Nice models, some mold lines, but good plastic which can be easily cleaned up.

Amazing, though, how high the list price is - apparently, the model store already had them reduced...

Goes to show that there are hobbies which are more expensive than wargaming. Really. :lol:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on August 28, 2007, 08:54:19 PM
Quote from: "tabletop"
Guys, is anybody else building their steamer? Anybody?

Looks like its just the two of us. Unless other fiendish masterminds are building in secret before unleashing their creation upon an unsuspecting world!

At least it qualifies as a worldwide (UK/NZ) competition!  :mrgreen:

I've almost finished the superstructure on my vessel.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 29, 2007, 05:08:24 AM
Yeah, we could only get further apart if you moved to Sweden, or I moved to the Antarctic!

Here she is in all her glory. A little chopped off at the end I admit, but looks passably like the Tintin 'Sirius' trawler that inspired her.

Details are going to be the next interesting bit, still I'm confident I can get *something* done in 3 weeks...

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer10.JPG)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Hammers on August 29, 2007, 08:40:43 AM
***TOOOT!***
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Prof.Witchheimer on August 29, 2007, 08:48:12 AM
I like it!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Hammers on August 29, 2007, 09:12:51 AM
Quote from: "TadPortly"

does this help?
http://www.westbourne-model.co.uk/graupner-model-boat-fittings.asp


That link is pure gold portly.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on August 29, 2007, 09:19:04 AM
Great looking ship Tabletop, and that site is perfect Hammershield :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TadPortly on August 29, 2007, 09:51:24 AM
Quote from: "hammershield"
Quote from: "TadPortly"

does this help?
http://www.westbourne-model.co.uk/graupner-model-boat-fittings.asp


That link is pure gold portly.


You are most welcome
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on August 29, 2007, 09:51:29 AM
Hammershield, your reply made me smile...I have a 4 year old son I read Tintin too almost every night. He loves to go 'Tooooot!' whenever Tintin and Captain Haddock etc. set sail...

It's funny how re-reading Tintin so many times makes you realise Herge had a very clear visual language. The 'Toooot!' panels being one excellent example!

Looking at the smokestack now and I think it may be a tad tall. I might yank it out and dremel another inch or so off the spray painted deodorant bottle I used...
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 01, 2007, 07:43:38 AM
Inspired by Tabletop and Overlord to finally get this project underway. I realized also that my ship design is very similar to Tabletop's :-o

I have pretty much finished the main hull construction. I have done the solid foam core more than a few times in the past to build the hull, but this time I wanted to actually detail the below deck of the ship. Here is the ship so far with the top deck in place:

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/firstWIP.jpg)

Using some pink 1.5cm insulation foam for the base I used some sturdy card for the gunwales (what is the modern term for gunwales anyway? ). I wrapped it around the pink foam and pinned it in place. Then, I used some balsa beams to help hold the gunwales in place and also act as a platform to rest the top deck on. Here is a picture of the lower deck of the ship with the top deck removed:

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/secondWIP.jpg)

This ship is pretty wide: 16cm (6.24") and 52.5cm (21") long. I figured this is really as small as I could make it and still have it be playable. I want figs to fit pretty much everywhere.

So far I am pretty happy with it for 1.5 hours work =D Looking forward to seeing this one unfold.

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 04, 2007, 01:23:17 AM
Found this little deck layout that I am going to take inspiration from!

(http://www.wanderbirdcruises.com/images/ship/floorplan-color.gif)

Now I have to figure out an easy way to build a steam engine!

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Westfalia Chris on September 04, 2007, 08:47:50 AM
Quote from: "Neldoreth"
(...)

Now I have to figure out an easy way to build a steam engine!

n.


*cough*

(http://www.pardulon.com/img/galerie/s001/s001_2.jpg)

(http://www.pardulon.com/img/galerie/s012/s012_2.jpg)

(http://www.pardulon.com/img/galerie/s013/s013_1.jpg)

All found here:

Pardulon Industrial Accessories (http://pardulon.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=34_40&osCsid=8b495d28b76bbabef3291811a68551ca)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 04, 2007, 07:10:09 PM
Thanks for the tip on the steam engines Westfalie Chris! I knew someone would know of something like that!

Starting to put in some detail on all that stuff....

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/fourthWIP.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/thirdWIP.jpg)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Westfalia Chris on September 04, 2007, 08:36:04 PM
I like it! The proportions and overall look remind me dimly of a ship in one of my favourite children´s books... gawd, is it really 22+ years ago?!? *sigh*
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 04, 2007, 09:24:29 PM
:(  :::sigh:::

Seems I slightly over did it at my brother-in-law's bachelor party and the time I had set aside to work on this project was instead spent recovering from a massive hangover.

So, I doubt I will get my steamer complete.

With three EXCELLENT works in progress it will be too difficult to pick a winner so, instead, I'll just have to make sure everyone who finishes by the 15th gets something.  :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 05, 2007, 09:23:02 AM
Heh, now if that ain't an inspirational comment I don't know what is!

Damn and I'd got distracted by other projects again too! Right, deck cranes and doors this weekend!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TadPortly on September 05, 2007, 09:33:10 AM
Quote from: "Neldoreth"
Found this little deck layout that I am going to take inspiration from!

(http://www.wanderbirdcruises.com/images/ship/floorplan-color.gif)

Now I have to figure out an easy way to build a steam engine!

n.


The Lancashire Steam Boiler

(http://www.scalelink.co.uk/acatalog/AD099.jpg)


from ScaleLink might make a nice ship's boiler.  You can imagine the stokers shoveling in the coal...

http://www.scalelink.co.uk/acatalog/Duncan_Models__O__scale___________RETAIL_ONLY_.html
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 05, 2007, 05:23:26 PM
Quote from: "Operator5"

With three EXCELLENT works in progress it will be too difficult to pick a winner so, instead, I'll just have to make sure everyone who finishes by the 15th gets something.  :)


Sad to hear that you won't be building one Operator5! But I greatly appreciate the change in prize policy :) I better get my nose to the grind stone!

Thanks TadPortly, that does look great!

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 05, 2007, 05:57:57 PM
Well, Neldoreth, I was looking at what was getting done, and really, how could anyone pick from them? They were all looking excellent.

Now, you just have to get it done by that Sept. 15th  deadline!  :lol:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 06, 2007, 10:14:37 AM
Progress continues! At this rate, the 15th looks realistic :)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/2_complete.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/2_roof1.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/2_roof2.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/2_foreDeck.jpg)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on September 06, 2007, 11:14:54 AM
Lookin' Good! :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 06, 2007, 12:04:11 PM
Great work Neldoreth! Though I don't know why a grocery clerk would be sweeping out the cabin.  :lol:

I've got all of those CoC figures as well (except mine are not painted yet).
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Hammers on September 06, 2007, 12:51:00 PM
Quote from: "Neldoreth"
Progress continues! At this rate, the 15th looks realistic :)


(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/2_roof2.jpg)


n.


About the passengers: that lady there with the baby carriage, does she have a sister? I mean, where is the miniature from?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 06, 2007, 09:51:27 PM
Thanks for the positive feedback on this! Yeah, I realize that those figs aren't entirely appropriate for the ship... but they are the only figs I have for this era :)

Quote from: "hammershield"

About the passengers: that lady there with the baby carriage, does she have a sister? I mean, where is the miniature from?


Those three figs are RAFMs Call of Cthulhu civilians. That particular lady there has a baby with a tentacle that is reaching out of the carriage :)

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 06, 2007, 10:11:43 PM
Quote from: "Neldoreth"
Thanks for the positive feedback on this! Yeah, I realize that those figs aren't entirely appropriate for the ship... but they are the only figs I have for this era :)

Just make sure you finish on time so you can have more... ooops!  :mrgreen:
Title: Deadline Approaches!
Post by: tabletop on September 14, 2007, 09:51:59 AM
Well, the deadline approaches and this is what I have to offer. I doubt I'll be able to get anything else done this weekend as it's my oldest son's 4th birthday :).

From the bow (with figures for scale):

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer11.JPG)

From the stern:

(http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/stu/archives/2007/trampSteamer12.JPG)

What's new since last time? Ladders made from cut and filed chicken wire. Fore and aft deck cranes make from dowel, bamboo skewers, thread and a few brass fixin's. 1mm plasticard applied around the wheelhouse windows.

What I want to do but haven't got around to: master and resin cast doors and portholes to fill those blank spaces! Anchors of some sort (I have some brass jeweler's chain handy)...and of course painting the thing!

Total material cost: Not more than 30$NZ (15 EUR), probably a little more once I get around to molding and casting resin pieces.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on September 14, 2007, 11:06:43 AM
Tabletop - great looking ship you have there. :)  Its going to be tough voting for the best looking ship :?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 14, 2007, 02:12:16 PM
Tabletop: Excellent ship! I can see many an exciting adventure taking place on it or whatever port it shows up in.

I know there are two others in development so let's see those pictures before the end of the day tomorrow! I want to make sure that I get figures out to those who took part in this.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 14, 2007, 10:55:16 PM
Finished, and not too unhappy :) There are always little bits of detail that could be added...  but I am happy with it now. Keep in mind that it isn't painted, and it would look a lot better painted. Anyway, I tried to make it a playable as possible, so every flat space is at least 30mm wide to allow for at least one 25-30mm base.

With the stairs I decided to make them small and non-playable. Usually I make huge, wide stairs, but I figured I would stick with the small, functional ship-type stairs. Game wise I would let players move up and down them for free or for a fixed distance cost.

Other than the stairs, figs can go anywhere. In the kitchens, the engine room and so on. Also, a lot of stuff is removable so that the detail is there but can be moved if the action requires it :) Anyway, I haven't posted all of the pics here, so please check out the gallery on my site:

Tramp Steamer Gallery (http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/?view=terrain&which=steamer)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_01_wholeShip.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_3_foreDeck.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_4_removableCrane.jpg)
Removable Crane for easy storage and maybe even a 'destroy the crane' scenario.

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_5_topDeckHolds.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_6_rearUpperDeck.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_7_stairsBridge.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_8_pilotsCabin.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_10_deckCabins.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_11_captainsQuarters.jpg)
The captain's quarters.

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_12_deckRemoval.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_13_storesKitchen.jpg)
The holds.

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_14_kitchen1.jpg)
The kitchen and galley and crew quarters... Cramped space for sure :)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_15_storesEngine.jpg)

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_16_engineRoom1.jpg)
Engine room

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_17_engineCompare.jpg)
Engine.

(http://www.blackbirdmedia.org/miniatures/images/terrain/steamer/3_18_removables.jpg)
All of the removable stuff from the ship.

It was fun building it and now I can hear the Call of Cthulhu...  1920's pulp horror here I come!

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Prof.Witchheimer on September 14, 2007, 11:05:21 PM
wow, wow, wow! I like it a lot  :love:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Howard Whitehouse on September 15, 2007, 12:54:31 AM
I don't see myself making a tramp steamer any time soon, but there's one in my next book  - a rusty tub called the Saucy Emmaline. My friend and illustrator Bill Slavin sent me this link on tramp steamers, which I happily share:

http://images.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://www.bevs.org/diving/pics/wrecks/sketches/sk13.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.bevs.org/diving/wkgenera.htm&h=155&w=500&sz=8&hl=en&start=8&tbnid=MIYLXLuDK5iowM:&tbnh=40&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dtramp%2Bsteamer%26gbv%3D2%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DG

Now here's a question. Engines are usually referred to in the plural form, as if the vessel would normally have more than one. Anyone got any ideas as to how many a coastal steamer of unimpressive style might have in the 1890s? H
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 15, 2007, 01:27:01 AM
Neldoreth: I love how playable you have made it! All the floors and rooms in place means an entire adventure could take place on it. Or have it stranded in some Antarctic ice with giant killer penguins with glowing red eyes closing in.  :lol:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 15, 2007, 05:01:53 AM
Yes good lord you went full steam ahead with the internal detail!

My secret plan was just to find some deck plans and print them out for any games involving moving about inside the steamer!

Mainly because I'm too lazy to build interior work like that :)

I like your hatches and doors too, might have to borrow those designs for the resin pieces I still hope to create...
Title: Overlord's Finished Tramp Steamer: SS Endeavor.
Post by: Overlord on September 15, 2007, 11:59:34 PM
Just in the nick of time!  Heres my Tramp Steamer:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip11.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip12.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip13.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip14.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip15.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip16.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip17.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip18.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip19.jpg)
The Radio romm. Handy for some games as an objective/place to defend/send a desperate message from.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/overlord_awc/Tramp%20Steamer/SteamerWip20.jpg)
Cargo containers on the deck mean I can use it for modern (or future) scenarios.


The pictures could be better as they were a bit hurried. Hopefully I will sort some better ones out in the next day or so.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Grimm on September 16, 2007, 12:02:43 AM
WOW  :o Overlord I buy it  :love:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 16, 2007, 12:11:24 AM
I want to buy all of them! I would have a whole shipping fleet!

Seriously. Excellent job!

I can't believe the quality work that Tabletop, Overlord, and Neldoroth put out. It's inspiring!

Now, everyone who got theirs in needs to PM me with their address. I'll be sending out some tramp steamer figures from Brigade Games to all three of the ship builders. If you have a preference for which pack, let me know as well.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Prof.Witchheimer on September 16, 2007, 08:26:12 AM
Quote from: "Operator5"
I want to buy all of them!


me too  :love:
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Neldoreth on September 16, 2007, 09:04:39 AM
Tabletop, Overlord, excellent ships! Thanks for sharing, it has been greatly inspiring :) Thanks to the Operator for sponsoring this little competition, and thanks to everyone for their positive feedback!

n.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Poliorketes on September 16, 2007, 09:46:09 AM
All the three are marvelous, and in so little time! Congratulations!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 16, 2007, 10:39:11 AM
Overlord your detailing is great too imho. Nice to see you sculpted some air funnels. I'm going to gleefully steal that idea. I detect chicken wire too, and like the way you've used it around the upper platform. I'd also award you points for curving the stern of your ship convincingly - I was too lazy to attempt that :). Yours has a nicely African feel to it too...I can see it steaming haltingly up the Congo...

I have to agree this has been quite an interesting contest. I'd seriously consider building a second steamer, improving it with what I learned from the first and with the inspiration from Neldoreth and Overlord's vessels. Now of course, we're all left with the rather daunting task of painting the things! Ack! Any tips for stopping light card from warping while painting?

And Operator5 is very generous to award us all prizes. Thanks man! I'll post something up on my humble blog for sure and I'm looking forward to Fantastic Worlds too.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: darquebus on September 17, 2007, 12:21:35 AM
:o  I must say!  (with a James Earl Jones voice) Impressive!

Don't get me wrong but is it actually "playable"...don't you need a VERY large table to play on? What about scenarios?

Still I think it is ultra-cool to have  a steamer, just wondered if there isn't only a very limited range what you can do with it...if it actually will enhance the scenario...


D.

I think I need to build one myself  :D
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 17, 2007, 01:47:49 AM
I can think of a few scenarios straight off the bat, the most obvious being a 'rescue from the hold' type affair, possibly involving a plucky reporter and his faithful fox terrier? How about a 'what's being smuggled in the hold' scenario? Both involving using stealth and guile to get aboard and below decks on a tramp steamer docked somewhere (requiring minimal table space, I've built a Mordheim 4'x4' dockside table (http://www.tabletop-terrain.com/archives/2006/01/15/505/) in the past).

Staying with Tintin inspired scenarios how about some basic ship based fun like dousing a fire in the hold/boiler room? Or even just a stand up gun battle above and below decks.

Tramp steamers could travel up rivers too which could give you a number of scenarios involving gun battles between ship and shore, or boarding/repelling boarders type scenarios, possibly involving dugouts filled with angry (and hungry) natives? How about escaping out of a jungle table back to the ship?

Using a piece of blue material you've got an instant 'wide open' sea table. Then of course you'll need additional vessels. Like a second trampie, or one of Brigade Game's excellent looking U-Boats. Rinse and repeat the above ideas with ship to ship battles maybe?

Just some random thoughts!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Lowtardog on September 17, 2007, 01:53:26 AM
Beautiful ships.

One scenario that would be quite odd ball is keeping the old Tub afloat a bit like round the world in 80 days. Figures would have to throw things overboard perhaps while fighting....add figures of choice, until off the table

or the classic sea monster attack!!!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 17, 2007, 02:00:49 AM
Heh. Nice suggestion! Something about a 'Hold the Old Girl Together' type scenario appeals to me...

I can imagine you could have all kinds of fun making players work to stop the trampie from sinking while trying to reach port :)

Sea monsters? Hmmm a chance to build a 28mm scale R'lyeh and denizens!
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: warrenpeace on September 17, 2007, 07:08:14 AM
Quote from: "Lowtardog"


One scenario that would be quite odd ball is keeping the old Tub afloat a bit like round the world in 80 days.


"Lord Jim" starring Peter O'Toole is a good movie to watch for the atmosphere of that, but for a scenario would want to mix it with pirates or something... and "Lord Jim" has a bit of that sort of thing, too, but later in the movie.  Actually, "Lord Jim" is a pretty good story for a Pulp adventure.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Malamute on September 17, 2007, 08:30:52 AM
Well done guys, all very impressive. I am so impressed with how easy its eems these have been to create. A real inspiration fo rme, I wouldn't have kown where to start. :)
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: PeteMurray on September 17, 2007, 12:40:57 PM
Great job, guys! There were lots of good tips to pick up here in with the excellent work. Very, very impressive!
Title: love them
Post by: bandit86 on September 19, 2007, 06:54:27 AM
Those are just so great, hate to be a judge. thanks for the insperation might try one myself.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 19, 2007, 09:00:51 AM
That sure was fun too...dang, we should do it again sometime! Maybe some kind of semi-regular gentleman's challenge now and then?
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Operator5 on September 19, 2007, 11:45:11 AM
A semi-regular challenge would be good. Sort of like the Prof's painting one going on. It will be all about getting stuff built and not who's is best.
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: Overlord on September 22, 2007, 02:17:48 PM
I would definately be interested.  The Tramp Steamer contest got me making something I had been thinking (and doing nothing) about for some time.

I did make a similar suggestion on another thread recently:
http://forum.backofbeyond.de/viewtopic.php?t=2522&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: tabletop on September 25, 2007, 09:18:22 PM
That's an interesting suggestion, but I was thinking maybe of something smaller challenge wise!

Maybe a singular themed piece of terrain or building...rather than an entire mad scientist's lair! I guess I should have a look at the competitions already running on the boards...
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: TadPortly on October 15, 2007, 04:18:22 PM
For all you budding ship builders this ship may be worth a visit:

http://nationalhistoricships.org.uk/index.cfm/event/getVessel/vref/1794
Title: Tramp Steamer Contest
Post by: fastolfrus on October 27, 2007, 08:52:17 PM
Don't know if anyone has seen that the "Adventures of Tintin at Sea" book (was mentioned by Plynkes on page 3 of this thread) appears to have been remaindered - it is on sale in the Book Clearance Centre in Bury for £3.99