They tell us that synthetics, such as Polyesters, are not suitable for model sail material because Poly's will shrink. We have an extensive line of cottons, which is what is discussed in the FAQ excerpted below. We also carry silks and linens and are reviewing these materials with the technical people.
We have an adequate supply of various cotton and linen fabric in a fine weave suitable for model sails.
We have several different kinds of cotton, silk, and linen threads and will be bringing in more. We have very fine thread. These are specialty items and much finer than anything available in general sewing stores. If you are working in the smaller scales, we will be able to help you.
The following article is excerpted from John Kopf's model sail makers FAQ.
... Did a web search, and got a hit on Kiyo Design of Annapolis. After a bit of conversation and exchange of samples, Nancy Hoyt (who runs the place and *really* knows her stuff) found the following candidates: Poplin, 150x70 threads per inch, natural Broadcloth, 150x90, natural (which looks like the stuff for us) Batiste, 100x100, white Lawn, 150x150, white Everything runs about seven bucks a yard (45" wide) except for the lawn, which is thirteen (same width). All would be suitable for scale work, being at least twice as fine woven as the Model Shipways material, fine enough to be translucent. The lawn, in particular, looks pretty good for furled sails -- it's very fine and tightly woven. The batiste is a more open weave and would look good for sails in older boats. Nancy did a fair amount of digging to find this stuff for us.
| Material | Thread count | Price | Color | Appearance | Application |
| Poplin | 150x70 | Natural | Dense, tight weave | Classic sails | |
| Broadcloth | 150x90 | Natural | A little grainy | ||
| Cotton Batiste | 100x100 | White | Nice, uniform | ||
| Lawn | 150x150 | White | Looks good, fine, tight weave | ||
| Cambric Linen | Too open | ||||
| Linen Batiste | |||||
| Voile | Too coarse, can see individual threads like window screen | Not suitable for sails but may have other applications | |||
| Swiss Batiste | Too open |
For furled sails, use 1/3rd the material as these are not to scale in thickness.
We are revising the starter set of sail materials and a FAQ sheet of technical specifications. This kit is not yet available. Please watch this space for information.
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