My masthead wind indicator has broken so I want to tie on some shroud telltales.
I had some previously that came with the boat. see picture. They kept moving down the shroud and got tangled easily.
Is there a particular place where they go on the shrouds? I have 2 on either side to work with.
Is there something better than wool that won't get so tangled. I am racing tomorrow, so need to do something in the morning.

Old cassette or video tapes used to work well.

Select to expand quote

sirgallivant said..
Old cassette or video tapes used to work well.

Is that what you do with your old porn tapes??????

I used to use woollen threats , but they wouldn't last long,
Than I learn , to sail without it,

There is an electrical tape called amalgamating tape.
That will stick your telltales to the shrouds and not slip down.
Wrapping ribbon works, but everything eventually gets frayed or sun damaged and needs to be replaced.

I use some of that mylar tape that is in metallic colours that come out of streamers fired off at live shows. Grabbed a handful after a show on a cruise ship. Surprisingly tough but does shred eventually.

I've used strips of Chux Superwipes. Cut into strips say 20mm wide, 250mm long and tie to the shroud with a simple granny knot. They don't slip and last for months. Use some electrical tape to secure it if you want, but I've never had to.

regards,
Allan

3 strand wool with 2 strands removed, about 100mm long. Place at arms length above your head with whatever tape you have handy. I use electrical, as Gaffa is too wide and tends to crease when applying. Replace wool and/or tape as they get ratty or break (both sides at the same time as the other one will break soon).

Also put one on the back stay, long enough to be in your eye line when going downwind. For me, I find that one more important than the side stays.

I used to use cassette tape, but it tends to stick to sails when wet and breaks (especially laminate main sails). Wool still sticks to sails, but doesn't break as easily.