Regarding the sails - no you dont have to make panel sails. I just want to learn to make a real nice looking set and with properly made panel sails they will have a better shape and look more realistic.

Its my first build and so far Im really happy. Followed the balsa planking procedure in the US1M construction guide. Once started it went real quick - with thin CA glue I was planked in one evening. Not sure how many hours I have in it (dont think I want to know). I would have to say that I have probably spent more time researching methods and materials then actually building. If I build again Im sure it would be much quicker.

The keel is removable - upper bolt protrudes through the deck / mast stem and a nut will hold it in place. The keel construction is based on the hollow, ply with internal alum tube method described in detail in the US1M construction guide. I even followed their method for casting the lead bulb in two halves.
Boat is abit under 36"