Floppy sails

[Q A's Revenge]

I've noticed on some models the sails look really floppy and do not hang in a very realistic way. Perhaps moisture is causing the problem in some cases. Is there some kind of treatment that can be applied to improve the appearance of sails on model boats?

[mtaylor]

Some use a clear lacquer (matte) to finish it after the sails are set with starch or fabric sizing.

[JerseyCity Frankie]

Sails ARE floppy and droopy if there isn't any wind to fill them. It becomes a question of how you want to depict the model. I like to have sails full of wind on my models but getting the look, stiffening and shaping the sails, adds a lot of time and effort. I think its worth it but there are times when I am trying to get the perfect look to the billowing sails that I could almost wish I had opted for sails in a calm.

[marktime]

Spray them with a starch and then use a blow-drier to shape them.

[wefalck]

Actually, most model sails don't really look floppy or droopy enough, because the material used is far too thick and stiff - that is when there is supposed to be no wind.

 

Billowing sails can also be made by working a wire into the seams or by making the bolt-rope from drilled-together and painted wire.

 

wefalck

[Keith_W]

After mountain the sails to the yard, soak the sail in a solution of white glue (30% glue, 70% water). Then hang the sail on a jig to dry. When dried, the sail will be stiff and take on the shape that you want. If you do not like the shape, simply soak and hang it again.