Stopping Deck Hatch Leaks
When I searched the internet for advice on repairing a small leak between the lens and sealant on a 20-year-old Lewmar Ocean 60 hatch,...
The DIY Sail Repair Kit
If you're going to sail you'll be doing some stitching. No two ways about it. Don't jump into the $100 do-everything kit. Start with...
Removing 3M 5200
Our recent test of caulk removers, (PS Tests Caulk Removers, Practical Sailor, January 2017), focused primarily on silicone caulk remover because these caulks can...
Converting an Anchor Light to an LED Tricolor Light
The cost of masthead tricolor navigation lights, a safety improvement many sailors add to their boats, involves expense beyond the fixture itself such as...
2017 Top Sailing Gear
Scott Rapid Dissolve Toilet PaperFollowing a carefully considered protocol that is not worth delving into here, testers took a second look at toilet paper...
The Best Respirators for the Boatyard
Although falling off a ladder or cutting yourself with a sharp tool are the most common boatyard injuries, damage from the foul air we...
Fixing Tears in Sunbrella Boat Canvas
Sooner or later, chafe, UV rays, and sharp edges take their toll on our canvas. A misplaced screw or simple friction will eat holes...
Esoteric Fibers Call for Epoxy
Theres little debate over the adhesive quality and toughness of epoxy resin-just look at where its being used. We hear about its presence in...
Descaling Solutions for Boats
In addition to all of that lovely salt, seawater is very hard, nearly saturated with calcium. All it needs is something to react with...
Glue-on Fasteners
Although through-bolts may be the gold standard for strength and security, sometimes drilling a hole isn't practical, or exposes foam or balsa core to...