How to Stitch a Yarn Telltale to Your Sail
We tested three methods for threading yarn telltales; direct threading using a #18 sailmakers needle (0.080-inch), pulling through with upholstery thread using a #16...
Reading the Telltales on Your Sails
Even the most laid-back cruiser has days when he would like to get there an hour sooner. But speed is not the only reason...
Re-evaluating Eye-splice Thimbles
A great many sailors believe a splice intended for high loads is not complete until it is fitted with a thimble. Undoubtedly, a thick...
Low-friction Rings
Ever since lightweight ball bearing blocks were introduced they have been the standard anywhere a line needed to change direction. Tackles run smoother, and...
Adding on a Ring? Let Us Count the Ways.
When it comes to attaching rings there are at least a dozen ways that work, each requiring different skill sets. In most cases, installation...
Penny Pincher Pawl Lube
Winch pawls require a different lube the rest of the winch. The only time they are moving is under practically no load, clicking along...
Sticky Luff Track Cure
Racers demand lightning-fast hoists. Cruisers tire of the effort required to grind a heavy main up a sticky track. Roller furler foils that have...
Undoing Mainsheet Twist
What kind of line do you use in your davit tackle? My lines keep twisting, chafing, and jamming. The ropes run crooked in the...
Snap Extenders for Old Canvas
Sunbrella does not shrink. That is the mantra, and for covers and dodger that are left in place, it seems to be the true....
Mailport: Shackle Sense
Shackle SenseYou have written thousands of words about shackles. One item that I don't think you have ever addressed is the use of double...
The BEST and WORST Boat Washing Machines
Are you looking into how to wash clothes on a boat? I set out to figure out which washing machine to install on my...
Latest Sailboat Review
Cape Dory 30 Used Boat Review
When the Cape Dory 30 entered production in 1976, it was the largest boat in the expanding line of the Taunton, Massachusetts boatbuilder. In...