Cringle

A reinforced loop or eyelet in the corner or edge of a sail, used for attaching lines or securing the sail to rigging.

A cringle is a feature in sailmaking, typically found at strategic points along the sail’s edge, such as the corners or along the leech (the aft edge of the sail). These reinforced loops are often made by sewing a metal ring or grommet into the sailcloth, ensuring that the fabric can withstand the significant forces exerted by wind and rigging tension. Cringles are used to attach various lines, such as reefing lines, which allow sailors to reduce the sail area in strong winds, or to secure the sail to the boom, mast, or other parts of the rigging.

The most common types of cringles are found at the clew, tack, and head of a sail. The clew cringle, for instance, is where the outhaul is attached, allowing the sail to be pulled taut along the boom. The tack cringle is located at the forward lower corner of the sail, where it is secured to the mast or boom. Cringles are also used in reef points, where they allow the sail to be tied down when reducing sail area.

The strength and durability of a cringle are critical, as failure at these points can lead to sail damage or loss of control over the sail. Therefore, cringles are often reinforced with additional stitching or webbing around the sailcloth to distribute the load more evenly.