Reconstruction model

During the Viking Age, ships were built by eye. Today, a reconstructor makes a 1:10-scale reconstruction model as well as an inner edge line plan and a torso drawing before construction starts.

All the existing ship parts are drawn on drafting foil in 1:1 scale. These are then reduced to drawings in 1:10 scale, and the reconstructor cuts out each part in cardboard, wood or other material. The strakes are held together with pins marking the location of iron rivets in the original ship. The model allows the reconstructor to recreate the original hull shape and lines.
Based on measurements of the model, an inner edge line plan is created by recording the inner edges of the planks. The next step is a torso drawing. This shows the preserved ship parts. Both drawings form the basis for the final working drawings for the reconstruction at the boatyard.