Flaking a Sail

Folding a sail in neat alternating layers for securing, handling or storage.

A mainsail is commonly flaked along the boom with folds laid to alternate sides before sail ties or a cover are fitted. A removed sail may be spread, dried and folded according to its cut, battens and storage requirements.

Orderly flaking reduces bulk and unnecessary creasing and makes the sail easier to deploy. Battens, stiff windows, sailcloth coatings and moisture may require a different method or temporary removal before long-term storage.