Rigging twine & braided lines

Rigging twine is ideal for whipping (securing line ends), sewing (small repairs to sails/tarps), and wrapping (protective and marking wraps). Braided lines are stronger and are used for lashing, light tensioning, securing, fastening, and general onboard tasks—anywhere where twine would be too thin.

As a rule of thumb: For securing line ends, choose rigging twine so that it can be wound tightly and grips the structure without adding bulk. For lashings/securing with braided rope, the load matters: it’s better to choose one size stronger if you don’t want the knot to slip under load. If you specify the rope diameter and intended use (end rigging, Dyneema lashing, tarpaulin), the appropriate strength can be narrowed down very quickly.

Waxed rigging twine is easier to work with, slips less, keeps wraps stable, and absorbs less water—ideal for classic line-end rigging and repairs. Unwaxed twine can be more comfortable for certain seams, but it usually offers less grip. For practical use on board and durability, waxed is often the safer choice.

For deck and rigging work, UV- and abrasion-resistant materials are important. Braided lines made from low-stretch fibers are suitable for stable lashings, while slightly more elastic varieties can absorb “jerks” when used for securing gear and tarps. Also, look for low water absorption and good knotability—especially when handling wet lines.

For synthetic rope: Cut the end cleanly (use a heat sealer or fuse the ends cleanly if the material allows) and then wrap (whipping) or splice it. With high-strength fibers (e.g., Dyneema), wrapping is often recommended because simply “fusing” the ends doesn’t work cleanly. A tight wrap and a clean finishing knot are essential.

Store whipping twine and braided lines in a dry place protected from UV light. After contact with saltwater, rinse briefly with fresh water and let dry before putting it in your tool bag or sail bag. Clean, dry storage prevents mildew stains and keeps the material supple.