Sail Gromets Torn

[1970Columbia34]

I noticed today when we were dropping our main that we have 2 gromets that are torn from the fabric. They are the ones that hold the clips on that slide on the track that goes up the mast, sorry I don't know the proper terms. I would like to fix it on my own but not sure what the proper process is and can you do this with a regular sewing machine? what type of fabris to fix the area? need a special tool for the gromet. Or know someone in Michigan that can do the work?, even better would be near Bay City, Mi. Thanks everyone.

Scott

[sailingdog]

You will need to get some sailcloth, about the weight of your sail, some polyester or goretex sail thread, a grommet tool, and a decent book on sail repair. Or you could send it to a local sail loft.

The grommets that are torn are the ones the sail slugs are attached to.

[Faster]

It shouldn't be terribly expensive to have a local loft repair these torn cringles - and you may want them to have a look at the rest while you're at it.

If the sail is really old and trashed, then you have to decide whether it's worth putting another $100 or so into it. Look into local used sail inventories as an alternative if buying new is out of the question.

[1970Columbia34]

The sail is really in good shape. I think these 2 just got hung up when being raised, seems like when you don't spray sail lube on the track each time you raise the main, the harder they slide.

Scott

[Boasun]

Invest in a good sewing machine built for heavy work and a book on sailmaking. Then start by making covers for every thing for your boat and/or friends boats. Then do the sail repairs. You'll need a good sail palm also. there is quite a bit of hand work in repairing sails.
Did canvas work while in the Navy, along with tailoring uniforms to a more custom fit. And taught my ex how to sew also. Easy to do if, you do all of the preparation work first and plan out each step along the way.
Two rates in the Navy:
Boatswain Mate; Jack of all trades. Master of many and knowledgable of many more.
the other rate; master of one trade.

Yes! I was a Boatswain Mate.

Have fun now.