How do you repair a huge rip in a 14ft. Sunfish sail?

Question

Today when I went sailing, after I up-righted the boat from a capsize, I noticed a huge rip near the edge of the sail.

I just want to know how to fix it. The sail is real old... I know it might be easier to buy a new sail, but it's kinda expensive...

Answer 1

Sorry to hear about your rip. Replacement expensive ($300) and if you have a go at repair then you get - experience.

Repair depends on the shape of the rip. But basically you get some  3.9 oz. dacron sail material and thread. Then cut the dacron to size and sew up. This does depend on the tear though. You could tape the repair as well.

I've seen damaged spinnakers and sails repaired by experts to almost the same as before, but some what smaller. I would start saving and then repair the damage. At least you'll have got the experience.

Chris

from http://www.boatpride.com