Start with the keel and frames. The parts are marked or identified in the pl Some kits have solid wood hulls and are easier to shape and build. 

Add the hull and deck planks.

​Then add the deck furniture. The plans with the kit guide using special wood for some parts. 

 Add the standing rigging, usually black because it was tarred for weather protection.   Then add the running rigging that was used to move sails. 

 Add the sails if the kit has them.  You can see how a sailing ship operated by the running rigging and sail plans.