palm

A palm is a reinforced metal or leather tool worn on the inside of the hand to protect the heel of the palm when pushing needles through thick sailcloth. It consists of a flat circular or oval metal plate (traditionally steel or copper, modern versions often stainless steel) mounted on a leather backing that straps to the palm with adjustable bands. The metal face has a smooth surface or a slight dimple at the center to grip and push the needle without slipping.

Sailmakers use palms when hand-stitching sails, particularly when making repairs or finishing seams on larger canvas panels where the needle must be driven through multiple layers. The needle is placed against the dimple in the metal plate, and pressure is applied from the heel of the hand to force the needle through the fabric. Without a palm, a worker pushing a needle through heavy 10 to 14 ounce canvas would quickly develop blisters or calluses and risk piercing their own skin.

The tool comes in several sizes to fit different hand dimensions, and the leather backing is usually saddle leather or canvas for durability. Older palms featured cast brass or iron plates with deeper bowls; modern sailmaking palms are typically stainless steel with shallower dimples designed to work with modern needles of standard gauge. The strap arrangement varies: simple single-strap designs are common, while some include thumb loops for additional stability.

The term palm derives from its placement on the palm of the hand, distinguishing it from other sewing aids. Sailors and sailmakers have used palms for centuries, and the basic design has remained largely unchanged. Today palms are essential wherever canvas sewing occurs, including marine restoration, circus tent fabrication, and heavy upholstery work. A worn or cracked metal face reduces effectiveness, so replacement palms are regularly purchased even in shops with well-maintained tool collections.