Sails
Jeremy Howard-Williams

Diagrams by J.D. Sleightholme.

This is the first comprehensive illustrated book on the subjects of sails, amply and exhaustively analyses. Starting with the history of sails and the theory of sailing, the author passes to the question of materials, the making and finishing of sails, rigging and tuning. Sails for working conditions, for light and heavy weather, and for reaching and running are examined in detail. Spinnakers have their own special section. There is advice on care and maintenance and expert information on how to alter sails in a considerable number of ways. Design and rating and the influence of the IOR rule are examined while there is advice on how best to increase your yacht’s wardrobe. The appendices are very detailed including a table for calculating spinnaker stay lengths, instructions on the measurements of sails, and further analysis of sail alterations.