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Are there anyone who could suggest literature, web sites and other
sources of high quality information that could direct me to the theory and mechanics of sail, its materials, how to calculate geometries, various design principles and ideas. Also, learning the craftmanship would be very interesting. I did an apprenticeship (way back when that was possible to do) with Ratsey-Lapthorn Sailmakers and built sails for a living for a very short while (not an easy business to make money, IMHO). Every book I've seen on the topic is way out of date. Every major loft (and maybe every loft by now) uses some sort of computer application to design, and often, to cut the panels for a sail. The fine art of sailmaking has become the fine art of computer design and a (usually low paid) seamstress. The software they use is proprietary and the information is strictly protected. I've seen some free software on the internet in the past, try a google search for "sail design" and you may find something worthwhile. On the "theory" of sail design, look for books by "Marchaj". He was the leading theorist when I was into that kind of thing. The reading is pretty heavy duty though. Sailrite is the only company I know of that still offers sailmaking kits, and they have their own books on the subject, no idea if they're worth getting though. They also sell some very reasonably priced sewing machines that will work nicely for a project like this. I'm assuming you plan on doing this for the challenge and education it will give you. If you're trying to save money, you'd be much better off buying pre-made sails. Hope this helps, Paul |
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