Sail Repair Workshop

Sunday 18th January 2026 saw over 20 Solent Gaffers gather at Bucklers Hard Marina to learn how to repair sails from the knowledgeable Mark Matthews of MM Sail Solutions. We learnt how to apply adhesive patches and how to hand sew patches using a palm and waxed thread. We have all come away feeling that we can now make repairs to our sails whether that is patching a small hole, or for the more adventurous – doing a full replacement of sacrificial UV strips!

A selection of sails awaiting examination
An attendee’s jib sail brought for examination – a couple of holes and a faded sacrificial strip meant it was in good condition and the owner could use their new skills to make the repairs
Essential items for sail repairs
The best way to examine a sail (spinnaker in the photo) is to stand underneath and look for sunlight
The group examining a mainsail to identify areas for repair
Looking at an attendee’s staysail which is going to have its sacrificial strips replaced
Everyone having a go at a hand sewn patch repair using a palm and needle

All photos subject to copyright (Georgina Tall, Jan 2026)

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A group of people looking down at a sail spread over the floor. A teacher is pointing towards a specific detail

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