How to Make a Clew Strap

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For a quick and easy way to attach a mainsail clew to a sailboat's boom, consider a clew strap! Commonly used on Laser® and other small sailboats, clew straps are easy to install and adjust along the boom for optimal outhaul tension. With just a few tools and materials, you'll be able to make a sturdy clew strap that fits snugly around the boom and holds securely, even in high winds. Keep scrolling to learn how!

Materials List:

D-Ring Without Bar #0 - 1" (Stainless Steel) – #122757
D-Ring Without Bar #1 - 1-1/2" (Stainless Steel) – #122758
Polyester Webbing – Black #PLLWBK or White #PLLWWH
Polyester Hook – Black #105032 or White #105034
Polyester Loop – Black #105036 or White #105033
UV Bonded Polyester or Lifetime Thread

Tools List:

Sailrite® Clear Acrylic Ruler 6" x 24" – #102400
Sailrite® Deluxe Edge Hotknife Package (110V) – #122171
Sailrite® Standard Fabricator® Sewing Machine Package (110V) – #400500
Gingher® Scissors Right Hand Lightweight 8" – #101017

A clew strap secures the back corner of a sail, also called a clew, to a sailboat's boom. While line ties are typically used for this job, they can be time-consuming to make and difficult to tension properly. That's where a clew strap comes in. This two-legged webbing strap slides easily through the clew grommet, then through a built-in D-ring. After wrapping around the boom, hook-and-loop pieces attach the strap to itself in two spots. It's much quicker and easier to use than a line tie for hassle-free sail tensioning!

cost-effective project

Not only will clew straps save you time on the water, but they'll also save you money. This cost-effective project calls for just a handful of materials that you probably already have in your workshop. If not, then you don't have to worry about breaking the bank to pick up the webbing, D-rings, thread, and hook-and-loop tape needed to make as many straps as you want. Each strap takes 30 minutes or less to put together. Watch the how-to video above to get started on yours.

What did you think of this simple clew strap DIY? If you've tried your strap on your sailboat, do you prefer it over line ties or will you continue to use a line tie? Share your thoughts about these clew attachment options in the comments section below. Thanks for joining us for this easy-sew boat project!