Sail Repair

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Barry14722

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Feb 10, 2006
75
Hunter 25 Forked River, New Jersey
I managed to tear my headsail today. It has a long, vertical rip about 8 inches long, as I was feeding the luff into the furler track.
I checked the Westmarine web site and they have sail tape. It seems to indicate that it is suitable for temporary repairs.
Any suggestions? Has anyone used the sail tape with any luck?
Should I take it t have it repaired professionally?
 
Ed Schenck

Ed Schenck

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Jun 2, 2004
5,802
Hunter 37-cutter, '79 41 23' 30"N 82 33' 20"W--------Huron, OH
Sail tape works well. Still I would consider it only for emergencies at sea. Unless you just can't wait to sail you should have it sewn. Why risk the tape failing and having the luff rip open to the top? To save some money you could sew it yourself with a sail kit and some practice. Or with a good sewing machine.
 
mark_swart

mark_swart

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Sep 25, 2008
385
Harpoon 5.2 Honolulu, HI
If you use the tape, make sure you have plenty of overlap, that will help it last longer. I had an old sail last summer that I knew I was going to replace, so I taped it and it held for the season. I'd still recommend fixing as soon as possible through a sail loft, but maybe you can use the tape to get you through to some point where you might not be using the boat for a couple weeks!
 
Bill Roosa

Bill Roosa

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Jun 6, 2006
6,990
currently boatless wishing Harrington Harbor North, MD
DIY and buy this book

This book is amazing. Pretty much puts you back in control of sail repair. Best $25 I ever spent on a boat.

The Sailmaker's Apprentice - A guide for the self-reliant sailor
Emiliano Marino
ISBN 0-07-137642-9
 
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