Pic 11: Suddenly you sit back and see you have quite an impressive structure. The diabolical timber grading shows clearly here: what were Artesania thinking of when they let this kit through? By reading ahead I realised that the uppermost planks will be covered by another layer of planking later on (pic 16), so I used up the most variable strips safely here, saving the best for places that will show in the finished model.

Keep planking steadily - I found I could do 4-6 planks per session. It's a bit of a slog but worth it, and don't let your standards drop. In fact, you'll find that you get better as you proceed. Apply planks on alternate sides to avoid any distortion of the structure, and remember to steam in as many of the curves and twists as possible before fixing.