Customer Reviews

Sailmaker's Apprentice(The): A Comprehensive Guide for the Self-Reliant Sailor

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book shows you the way to build sails the old fashioned way, although some of the techniques shown are not really the way they were built in the "old days". It has lovely illustrations and and clear instructions on how to make sails with an eye on the craftsmanship of the past. The modern world of computer-designed and cut sails has no place here! If you are a novice and want this book to learn the art and craft of modern sailmaking, the book is not for you, as the construction details shown are needlessly complicated and redundant. Modern sails are actually easier to build than most of the techniques shown in this book, and most of today's sailmakers do not build sails using the book's methods. There are other books on how to make sails that are better and easier, but this is a great book for those who like the old ways of doing things. Nice photos and instructions on how to repair sails, and good basic advice for sailors who want to try their hand at a bit of palm-and-needle work. The author is holding onto the old way of designing and building sails, but has neglected alot of modern advances in the art of sailmaking.

This wonderful book isn't intended to teach you about modern, complex, computer designed sails, or how to make them. Marino wants you to be able to repair and maintain your sails yourself. He wants you to understand how to sew a flat tabling, how to stick a cringle, how to sew on a boltrope. If you are adventurous, he will tell you how to completely make a sail for your boat, one that will last many, many years, but frankly very few people will ever make their own sails. But starting with a great beginner's project, the ditty bag, he shows you that traditional sailmaking is just a collection of readily understandable tasks, and then the repetition of those tasks, done with care and patience. Highly welcome and recommended in this age of multiple laminate fabrics and computer designed sails cut out by lasers. If that's what sailing is to you, look elsewhere.

The book seemed quite comprehensive on the subject of sailmaking. A good thing, but it took multiple readings to pick out what I did need vs. what I did not need when I started making my own sail. Having compared the techniques in the book to what I have seen in use among most so-called "production" sails, it was obvious to me this book was written for an audience who appreciates attention to details. It's a book for those serious about their sails, not for those who want to put together a quick and dirty sail that will last them only a couple of seasons, nor is it for those expecting nicely laid out patterns to follow.

An exhaustive work on making sails. The author is maticulous and does not cut corners. Makes good reading not only as a handbook, but also as a history of sail making.

A classic of the modern 'how to' genre this text is in fact so much more than a manual on how to make a sail. The author provides an in depth history of sails, their evolution and their use in the modern era. The information contained in the text is detailed, well presented and therefor clearly understood, which ticks all of the boxes that encompass a great work of reference. If I were allowed only one text on the subject this would be the only book I would need to construct most sails with confidence.

Extremely complete, well written with many options for your sailplains. Great illustrations and confidence building instructions.

This is a very informative book. The author is very detailed in his teaching of the subject. I am interested in knots and rope work as a hobby. The author appears to have left out nothing when it comes to sails and sailmaking. The title is truly accurate. While not the book for just learning knots, it is the book for the next step. Great reference and companion to Ashley's Book of Knots.
Mike T

I am not a sailor nor have any inclinations to make sails. I have been involved in a project on 19th century sailmaking. This book was one of my most important sources to learn about the principals of sailmaking. The history can be found in archives etc. but how sails are actually put together can be found in this book. I highly recommend it for anyone studying historic sailing ships or sailmaking. Well written, clear explanations, and super diagrams make this a valuable book for anyone interested in maritine history.

This is an excellent book, very clear, detailed, great drawings. It shows the details necessary to be successful making or repairing sails. I'm impressed with it.

If you are even considering building your own boat, this book is a must have. The clear directions & tips provide invaluable insights into constructing sails that will be reliable & long lasting.