How to Replace a Sail Window

Has the window in your sail seen better days? Is it hard to see through or cracked after years of abuse from wind, water and pollution? This short video tutorial will show you how easy it is to replace your sailboat’s clear vinyl window. Our DIY experts will show you how. Let’s get started.

We will show you the proper techniques for cutting out your existing sail window and inserting a new one. And best of all, we show you how to do it without compromising the quality of your sail or causing any sail performance issues. First, you’ll trace the circumference of your new window around the old one — your new window will be slightly bigger to account for the seam allowance needed. You will sew your new, and then cut out the old one. Never cut out the old window first.

For this project, you’ll need a sheet of new vinyl window material, seamstick basting tape, thread, new sailcloth, adhesive-backed insignia and, of course, a sewing machine that can handle sail repairs. We recommend the Sailrite^® Ultrafeed^® LSZ Walking Foot Sewing Machine for its zigzag stitch and walking foot in a powerful and conveniently portable size.

With just a handful of supplies from Sailrite^®, you’ll be on your way to having a beautiful looking, clear sail window in no time! Be sure to check out the other blogs in our “Sail Repair” How-To Series if you have any other parts of your sailboat that need repairs.