writes:
We profiled this model a while ago, and now I've painted it!
Xebecs were Mediterranean ships with both oars and sails, used from the 16th to the 19th centuries. They make an interesting addition to Age of Sail games. This model is 1:600 scale and from Minairons.
The model comes with good instructions, including a color box cover. The artwork, however, is slightly different from the actual model. I found a online painting tutorial quite useful, although he did not have the final masts and sails, so had to scratchbuild his own.
My approach is to paint the model in stages – hull, masts, sails, base – then assemble everything at the end. I use simple techniques, primarily drybrushing and washes. These days, I need a magnifier to paint the small details on the hull (it teaches me patience).
I decided not to do rigging for the model, as I think realistically in this scale it would just be invisible.
I recently experimented with leaving my 1:600 ships unbased, and found their masts got tangled in storage or transport! So I based this Xebec, and will go back and base my other sailing ships.
Now I need a one-Xebec scenario… 