Best way to mark lines

[Dod42]

I am looking for a method to mark the mail halyard for when it gets to the reefing points, sort of like how you mark the chain at specific lengths. What ever I use has to be flexible but visible. Do I just paint a band and if so what sort of paint or will a NICO type pen work.

Any suggestions?

[ranger58sb]

Not sure it'll work for halyards, but can you thread a zip tie through, tighten, trim off all the excess?

-Chris

[Dod42]

Originally Posted by ranger42c

Not sure it'll work for halyards, but can you thread a zip tie through, tighten, trim off all the excess? -Chris

Don't think zip ties will work as they won't run smoothly through the blocks, clutches or winches. I did wonder about a thin twine lashing maybe. But that may be too rigid.

[estarzinger]

Best way is a sewn whipping - will run thru the clutches and last forever

Easiest way is indelible market pen - marks last about 1 to 2 years and then need to be renewed.

[Vasco]

Just use a black sharpie. Mark a band about an inch long on the halyard.

[Seaworthy Lass]

Originally Posted by Dod42

I am looking for a method to mark the mail halyard for when it gets to the reefing points, sort of like how you mark the chain at specific lengths. What ever I use has to be flexible but visible. Do I just paint a band and if so what sort of paint or will a NICO type pen work.

Any suggestions?

I whip ours in a contrasting colour:

[Dod42]

Thanks. That was what I thought. I will start with a pen the when I am happy with where. It is I will do a binding

[barnakiel]

Felt pens are fine but they tend to disappear where UV gets them. Sewn whipping of colour polyester thread seems to last fine and goes thru blocks / cleats fine too.

b.