Sail modifications

[Ambler]

I want to use an existing sail on my (nearing completion) cat-rig dinghy. The sail has a bolt-rope that originally slid - or didn't - in a grooved mast. Now I want to use it with hoops or possibly lacing on my new tubular mast. The luff length is about 16 feet. I don't know what kind of spacing would be right for the hoops or lacing eyes. Also have trouble deciding how to make the eyes and finding appropriate hardware for them - rings, grommets etc.

Economy is an issue

Helpful comments & suggestions welcome - especially if based on actual experience!

Alexander

Vancouver Island.

[PAR]

Assuming you have 30 to 70 sq. ft. of sail on your dinghy, 16" spacing provides 12 equally spaced hoops, though you probably don't need that many.

http://www.duckworksbbs.com/sailmaking/grommets/index.htm

You can make gaskets with a little rope work or you can use parrel beads again in a gasket, which some prefer.

Lacing is about the easiest way to attach you sail.

[Bud_Wilson]

Ambler My 2cents worth. I think the Duckworks grommets is the way to go, and if economy is a issue lacing is the way to go. Lacing works as good or better than hoops if you get it laced wright. Ask Frank to post the picture of how to lace it. 1/4 inch line is big enough.  Bud

[Konrad]

x2 on the 16" spacing.

I think my Vaca is at 12", and it's a God's plenty.

Any hardware store will sell you brass grommets and a grommet punch kit for about 10-15 dollars.

[PAR]

The "brass" kits you get from the hardware store are commonly plated brass over mild steel and they don't hold worth a darn. You surely want to use a "spur" grommet (crinkle).

[Konrad]

My Vacationer is 9 years old, and they're fine.

(I don't sail in salt water, though, and that may be why.)

[Ambler]

Thanks all for the helpful info & suggestions. I'd been visualising something like sewn-in rings with brass grommet-style protection. Apparently you'd all see that as overkill - great! But I'm not keen on the type of cheap grommets you get at hardware/camping stores. My experience using them with polytarps has not been good.

The lugged Duckworks grommets look like a big improvement, especially if used with the hot-punch hole melting process mentioned in the feedback from Andrew, on their site:

http://www.duckworksbbs.com/sailmaking/grommets/index.htm

But it'll be the first time I've taken a hot poker to my sail!