Sailmaker: what’s the job?

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Sailors specialize in making sails for ships, designing and developing rigging schemes, and providing advice on sail care and use. They can work for large or small companies and may specialize in racing or historic sails. Sailors also spend time on the water fitting and testing sails and providing consultation services. Compensation rates vary depending on skills and experience, and benefits may be available at larger companies.

A sailor is a person who specializes in making sails for ships and providing advice on how to use, store and care for sails. Sailors can work for large companies that produce ships and accessories, and they can also work for smaller companies. People in this field are usually experienced sailors and usually learn from an experienced sailor apprentice, although some college classes can also help people prepare for a career in sail making. An understanding of textile science and sailing physics can be valuable for these professionals.

Sailors are able to design sails as well as develop different rigging schemes. Companies involved in mass production rely on a team of employees to develop appropriate sail designs for their ships. When custom orders come in, such as when people want a specific configuration or design, the candle maker meets with the customer to discuss the needs and develops an appropriate design, creating standards for use in the production of the candles. On smaller companies and independent sailboats, all work can be customized.

For people like competitive sailors, it is very important to work with an experienced sailor. The types of sails used, as well as how they are placed on the ship, can make or break a race. These professionals are familiar with the demands of racing and the various types of ships used to assist their clients. Others may specialize in historic sails, focusing on making sails for replica ships; they are familiar with ancient candle making techniques and equipment and can help people create a factually accurate replica that will also work for film and television as well as events.

In addition to working on land at a facility where sails are produced, sailors spend time on the water. They fit and test sails and can provide consultation services to people who want help with their boats. The sailmaker provides information on different sailing equipment and handling options, inspects sails, and helps people maintain and repair sails to keep them in good working order. This work can take boaters to many locations around the world, as customers can request that the craftsman travel to their ship.

Compensation rates vary depending on where a sailor works and the skills the person has acquired. People familiar with complex topics, such as working with racing boats, can often charge high fees for their services, especially if they are working with well-known sailors and their support teams. Beginners tend to earn less money. Availability of benefits is also variable; large shipbuilders may have benefit options available, whereas smaller independent companies tend not to offer this.




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