Revell Spanish galleon rigging

The lines would vary in size.  Running rigging would be different size and color from standing rigging, and lines for upper spars and masts would be different size than those on lower masts/spars.  I have never built that ship, so not sure of the scale.  What scale is it?

Unfortunately, the hobby of sewing is in decline, according to my local craft stores, so they do not have the selection of thread sizes they used to have. I find I have to mail order thread from model ship suppliers these days, and their selection isn't that great either :-(

Thanks don, I am just wondering what sizes to order, if I can find a place local I could bring it with me. The scale is 1/96

I would completely ignore what came in the kit. I'm sure no thought was given to scale. They probably put the same "thread" in the 1/60 and 1/220 kits too.

0.5mm sounds about right, as that'd be 2" at full size. And down from there.

The anchor cable should be thick say 2mm and find some nice string with a twist.

To be honest, I usually go with what looks right. As Don says, vary color and size and it'll look good.

Also recommend running it through beeswax. If you buy your thread from Model Expo or someone like that, Blue Jacket etc., they'll have it too.

Careful though, grown men have disappeared into those sites never to be heard from again!

By my calcs, 0.5 mm is about 20 mil.  I think the lower shrouds could even be slightly thicker, maybe the 0.8 mm you mentioned.  Stays and topmast shrouds would probably work with the half mm.  Something thinner for rigging above topmast level.  I use a lot of 10 mil (I guess that would be 0.25mm) for the thinnest rigging. I have a lot of 10 mil semi-transparent in a smoke-tint that I use for fine running rigging, and just plain transparent 10 mil for the thinner running rigging.  That monofilament stuff is terrible to work with and knot, and every time I swear I will not use any more, I see how nice it looks on models (especially smaller scale) and go back to it.

Speaking of smaller scale, I sure wish PE companies would issue more PE rigging stuff for very small scale like the 1:600 sailing vessels. I have only been able to pick up one set of the stuff.  Those small scale sailing vessels definitely need PE for shrouds/ratlines.  No other practical option.

Syrene makes the best cordage that I have yet to see. It isn't cheap, but not over the top in cost. The sizes are somewhat limited but they do have a good range.

BlueJacket is another good source. They have a wide selection of sizes and most of it comes already waxed on a spool, so no kinks.

I would just go w/ whatever size you think looks best. You can certainly figure out which size thread to use if you know the actual size used, say for the main stays. The stays and the shrouds will generally use the heaviest cordage. I think you can get a catalogue from Blue jacket that lists all their sizes.

I am currently building the Revell 1/96 constitution and using the BlueJacket rigging plans. I am not at home right now, but I will look up the sizes for your when I get back and either post or PM them.

Thanks for all the input. I have some rigging from a 1/98 scale victory hull section left over that I am now using so the scale is close enough I just hope I have enough.

here's the cordage from Bluejacket w/ the part numbers.

Thanks, Arnie- that is a great chart.