How to Install a Luff Sleeve

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If your sailboat sail requires a luff sleeve or mast sleeve, this video will show you how to install the sleeve to your sail. This type of sleeve is often used in Force 5 or Laser sails. The sleeve utilizes a boot at the head made from a 2" polyester webbing. The sleeve is a 4-5 oz. Dacron® sailcloth. All the supplies you need can be ordered from Sailrite®. Let's get started with this quick and easy sail modification.
Materials List:
  • White Polyester Webbing – #PLLWWH
  • PremoBond® Tex 70 (V-69) White UV Bonded Polyester Thread 4 oz. – #124738
  • Seamstick 3/8" Basting Tape for Sailmaking & Vinyl – #659
Tools List:
  • Sailrite® Edge Hotknife Package – #103800
  • Sailrite® Ultrafeed® LSZ Walking Foot Sewing Machine – #311602
  • Marking Tool
  • Measuring tool

Along with the 2" polyester webbing and Dacron, you'll need a few basic sewing tools and supplies. You'll need a marking tool, a measuring tool, a cutting tool, basting tape, thread and a sewing machine with a zigzag stitch. Basting tape keeps your webbing in place on the sail before sewing.

Cutting Webbing with a Hotknife

We recommend using a hotknife to cut the webbing so it seals the end to prevent fraying. The Sailrite® Edge Hotknife is a great choice. The cordless version comes with two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries so you can DIY at the marina or even on your boat. The original Edge corded version is also a great choice and runs off of an inverter so it's friendly to boaters as well.

If you're in the market for a sewing machine that packs a punch, there's nothing better than the Ultrafeed®. This portable powerhouse boasts the most powerful portable motor available today — 2.5 times more powerful compared to other portable machine motors. The Ultrafeed LSZ sews both straight and zigzag stitches and is the machine we recommend to the DIY sailing community. Click here to learn more about the Ultrafeed and whether it's the right machine for your sewing journey.

Are you looking for more sailmaking videos and tutorials? Browse our Marine Projects DIY category for all the boating and sailing content you need. You can filter by project type to find exactly what you're looking for.

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