Mini Mamoli – compact wooden kits for beginners in historical ship modelling

Historical background: Steam tugboat ‘Taurus’

Tugboats such as the Taurus were a familiar sight in almost every American harbour at the turn of the 19th century. These robust steam tugs were indispensable on rivers, in coastal waters and in navigable tidal areas. With their enormous pulling power, they pulled large passenger ships safely through narrow harbour basins, assisted with docking and undocking manoeuvres, and pushed heavy barges that would have been virtually impossible to manoeuvre without outside help.

The Taurus represents an era in which steam engines formed the backbone of port work. However, with technological advances and the increasing prevalence of powerful diesel engines, steam ships steadily lost importance in the 1930s. By the 1960s, most classic steam tugs had finally been decommissioned, as diesel-powered tugs were more economical, required less maintenance and were significantly more flexible in their use.

Only a few examples of the old steam tug fleet have survived to this day. Some of them – lovingly restored – have been preserved as museum and excursion boats, reminding us of a time when steam and steel dominated the working world of ports.

The Mini Mamoli kit allows you to recreate a piece of this maritime industrial history in compact scale and rich detail.

Introduction to the Mini Mamoli series

The Mini Mamoli kit series includes a variety of small, decorative wooden ship models that are particularly suitable for beginners, hobbyists and collectors. The series offers an uncomplicated introduction to historical ship modelling without the challenges of classic frame or full rigging kits. Mini Mamoli is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to build a compact, decorative model with manageable effort.

Construction and material concept

One of the characteristic features of many Mini Mamoli models is the pre-formed hull, which eliminates the need for time-consuming planking and greatly simplifies construction. In current kits, this pre-formed hull often consists of a precisely 3D-printed PLA plastic part.

PLA (‘polylactide’) is a modern, biodegradable plastic made from renewable raw materials that is lightweight, dimensionally stable and ideal for fine 3D printing details. This allows for very clear and clean hull shapes to be achieved, even with small models.

In addition to the hull, the kits contain all the necessary wooden and metal fittings as well as multilingual, illustrated assembly instructions. Adhesives and paints are not included in the scope of delivery, so that the finished model can be customised. The compact dimensions of the Mini Mamoli models make them easy to handle and require only a small work surface.

Building experience and project selection

Mini Mamoli kits are ideal for model builders who want to build a tasteful wooden ship model without major technical hurdles. The clearly structured work steps and manageable number of components are ideal for beginners, occasional hobbyists or joint projects with young people. Despite the simplification, the historical character is retained, making Mini Mamoli both educational and motivating.

Area of application and presentation

Mini Mamoli models are purely static display models and are not intended for RC operation. They are particularly suitable for shelves, collector's display cases or decorative presentations. Thanks to the use of real wood and fine fittings, the models have an appealing, authentic look despite their small size.

Conclusion: Who are Mini Mamoli kits suitable for?

Mini Mamoli is aimed at anyone looking for an elegant, handy and easy-to-build wooden ship model. The series offers an ideal introduction to historical model building and appeals to both beginners and experienced collectors who want a small, quick project. Mini Mamoli kits are an excellent choice for decorative display models with historical flair.

Technical data:

Scale 1:87
Length 233 mm
Height 115 mm