footy class sailboat

Class: Footy

The smallest class of all.

American Footy

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The Footy is a very small radio-control sailboat whose length is a mere 12 inches (30.5 cm). The hull can be made from a fiberglass mold or simply with thin sheets of plywood fitted together. Two servos are used, one to control the sail and one for the rudder. Some plans are availble for sale, some for free.

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DESIGN RULES

The Footy can be built from scratch (both plans and kits are available) or acquired as a sail-ready model. Two servos are called for: one to control the sail, the other for the rudder, though placement is a builder decision. Hulls can be hand-cut balsa wood or molded fiberglass or carbon fiber; and sail designs include swing rigs, gaff rigs, genoa jibs, the unique unarig and more. To date there are over two dozen distinct Footy designs that have qualified for r/c model yacht racing (see our Footy Gallery ).

The rules governing the Footy design are the work of an international contingent of model yacht artisans. The official text of the most current rules may be found at their site, FOOTY Class R/C Sailboat , on the RULES page. This is the International FOOTY Class web site and is an excellent source for plans, news and  regatta schedules from both sides of the pond.

FOOTY MEASURING BOX

Two sets of plans for building the Footy measuring box are available at the International Footy Class web site at the RULES page. Pictured is a Papaya III Footy with a Footy box.

PLANS, KITS & SAIL-READY MODELS

Plans for eight classic Footys are available at   FOOTY Class R/C Sailboat: PLANS .

The US Footy Registrar is found at the AMYA   Footy Class Page .

MENTORS / BUILDING RESOURCES

To date, RCMSC members have built 20 Footys (with eight Footy designs represented)–a boatload of crafting experience. That good experience is available on build nights, Sunday sails, via email, at the pub, even online:   Footy build logs have been posted at RCMSC member Stanley Townsend’s blog. Check the Club NEWS POSTS for announcements of build nights; check the Sailing Schedule for dates of Sunday sails.

Good advice from experienced Footy builders / sailors is also available at  two discussion forums (registration is required to post comments): FOOTY USA on Yahoo and the R/C Sailing Forum: Footy Class .

The AMYA Model Yachting magazine featured the Footy in its Summer 2008 issue (available from the AMYA Ship’s Store ). Included are 13 articles addressing design, sources, crafting and sailing the Footy.

And see our LINKS page for online Footy building resources.

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Meet the Footy!

This diminutive r/c boat is easy to build and transport, and racing one is more fun than dancing barefoot..

By Nathan Titcomb

Have boat, will travel. The Footy was designed to fit inside a 12” X 6” X 12” box for easy transport, either in a compact car or aboard a boat.    © Nathan Titcomb

harbors they visited.

While most classes of R/C boats would fit aboard a 33-footer, I also had to make sure I stayed in the good graces of my mother-in-law; no points are earned if you inadvertently start a fight between your in-laws! The boat would need to be securely stored onboard without taking over the whole cabin. Fortunately the perfect solution existed in the Footy Class. My plan was to develop and build a boat in time for Christmas.

The Footy is a development class with few restrictions on hull shape, rig design or sail area. The author built this handsome Footy, which resembles a Class40. © Nathan Titcomb

are not included inside the box, but the sails must be able move through the full range of motion while the boat sits in the box.

The second rule states that the number of channels for the radio is limited to two. In essence, this limits the number of servos aboard the boat to two: one for the sails and one for the rudder. As a result of these rules, most boats are monohulls of between 12 inches and 14 inches in length (think diagonally). Due to the Footy’s small size, the cost to construct one is kept very reasonable. The most competitive boats are built out of balsa or molded plastic. While exotic materials like carbon are allowed, the weight benefits in this size range are non-existent.

My idea for this Footy was to have a removable keel. With the keel removed, the boat could fit inside a cradle situated in some sort of carrying case to protect the boat while stored aboard the Cal in the quarter berth or lazarette, and to make transport to and from sailing easy. I found a plastic toolbox from a home improvement store that fit the bill. It easily contains all the parts of the boat and everything else needed to go for a sail, including the remote control. The package worked so well that I built another one for my father for his birthday, which was taken along for a six-week cruise to Maine this past summer. I have also built a few boats for myself, which I actively race.

The Northeast is home to an active and growing Footy fleet. This photo was taken at the Region 1 Championships in Gilford, NH.    © Nathan Titcomb

secretary for the U.S. Thankfully, the former class secretary, Bill Hagerup, is not leaving the Footy class and is staying on as a terrific resource.

Bill is a prolific designer whose designs have won the AMYA Region 1 (New England) Footy Championship for the past several years. Bill has been kind enough to design the easy-to-build Footy (#434) pictured in this article. He and I have worked together to develop a package for a Footy for you to build and pack along, so the next time you are in your favorite harbor, be it Cuttyhunk, Mattiuck, or Tashmoo, you can bring out a Footy and sail. With any luck you’ll run into someone else sailing a Footy, or at the very least I am sure you will capture the interest of more than one fellow boater. For more information including plans and build instructions, class rules, news, photos and more, visit footy.rcsailing.net .

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Sailboats - Cruising

Brando footy plans.

The “Footy” class, for boats which fit within a 12″ x 6″ box.We think you’ll find this design completely irresistable.Designed by Flavio Faloci a naval architect based in Genova, Italy, BRANDO includes 12 pages of plans, detailed building instructions, and complies with Footy class rules for radio control use.Is this a project for a beginner model builder? No not really.Servos, receivers are available from your local hobby shop, or via Tower Hobbies, 1.800.637.6050 ( www.towerhobbies.com ).

Design Specifications

The WoodenBoat Store Post Office Box 78 Brooklin, Maine 04616 USA Phone: 1.800.273.7447

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Revolutionizing Model Sailboat Building: The 3D Printed Footy Sailboat

• By - Kyle Hilson
• Posted on November 14, 2023 April 11, 2024
• Posted in 3D Printers

Model sailboat enthusiasts have found a new level of creativity with the emergence of 3D printing. This technology has made it easier, faster, and cheaper to produce sailboat models of various types and sizes, from massive yachts to small, affordable crafts. One example of this innovation is the 3D printed footy sailboat, which has revolutionized the footy sailing class. Footy sailboats are small, simple, and affordable compared to other sailboat model classes. However, 3D printing has made these boats even more accessible and easier to build without sacrificing performance on the water. This article will explore the design, construction, and racing potential of the 3D printed footy sailboat.

Customizable Footy Sailboats Made Easy with 3D Printing

Footy sailboats are characterized by their small size, typically between 12 and 18 inches in length, and their simple, minimalistic design.

The class rules dictate that the total weight must not exceed 425 grams and that the sail area must not exceed 50 square inches.

Footy sailboats utilize radio control systems that allow the operator to maneuver the sailboat from a distance.

Footy sailboats were popularized in Australia in the 1970s as a way to make model sailing more accessible to everyone, and since then, they have become a favorite among model boat enthusiasts worldwide.

What are the class rules for footy sailboats?

Class rules for footy sailboats vary depending on the organization or group setting the rules, but typically include restrictions on boat length, width, weight, and sail area. Other rules may cover the types of materials allowed for construction, the number of crew members, and specific measurements for the hull, mast, and keel.

Cost-effective and customizable option for building model sailboats.

3D printing technology has revolutionized the process of building model sailboats, including footy sailboats . The 3D printing process has simplified the creation of footy sailboats and has reduced the time and cost required to build them. 3D printing allows enthusiasts to design, print, and assemble their own boats without requiring expensive materials or tools. There are many websites that offer free 3D printing files and plans for footy sailboats , which has made the process of building these boats more accessible to everyone.

Pros of 3D printing sailboats include its superb ability to allow for precise and intricate designs. Additionally, 3D printing reduces the time and cost of building model sailboats, making it a favorite choice for many hobbyists. Plus, it is apparent that 3D printing makes it easy to modify and customize designs.

Cons of 3D printing sailboats, however, include the high cost of purchasing and maintaining a 3D printer. It can also be difficult to create larger-scale models due to the size limitations of 3D printers. Another limitation is that materials used in 3D printing can limit durability.

Interestingly, 3D printing has also enabled enthusiasts to build footy sailboats that mimic the design of well-known sailing vessels such as the America’s Cup and J-Class yachts. Due to their small size, footy sailboats can be assembled, tested, and modified quickly, making them a favorite choice for many hobbyists.

What are the pros and cons of using 3D printing technology for building model sailboats?

Pros of using 3D printing for building model sailboats: 1. High precision in design and accuracy in measurements. 2. Reduced time and cost in prototyping and optimizing. 3. Ability to create complex geometries that are not easily achievable through traditional methods.

Cons of using 3D printing for building model sailboats: 1. Limited material choices and strength compared to traditional materials. 2. Post-processing requirements such as sanding and polishing can be time-consuming. 3. Not suitable for mass production due to the time it takes to create a single part.

Revolutionizing sailboats: The power of 3D printing in the world of model footy sailboats

• The 3D printed footy sailboat ‘s design focuses on creating a lightweight and aerodynamic vessel that can perform well in a wind-powered race.
• As a result of their lightweight frames , 3D printed footy sailboats can race at impressive speeds and are highly maneuverable on the water.
• Some enthusiasts have increased the performance of their footy sailboats by using custom-made sails and other hardware components .
• 3D printing can also allow enthusiasts to create working mechanical parts such as rudders and keels , which can enhance the sailing experience.
• The use of 3D printing in sailboat building is not limited to footy sailboats as it can also be applied to other sailboat classes such as RC sailboats and America’s Cup replicas .

What other types of sailboats can be built using 3D printing technology?

Other types of sailboats that can be built using 3D printing technology include racing sailboats, catamarans, and luxury yachts.

Experience Cutting-Edge Technology: Join the Thriving World of 3D Printed Footy Sailboats!

• The 3D printed footy sailboat has been put to the test in several racing events, demonstrating their capabilities on the water.
• One significant event is the annual Footy National Championship hosted by the American Model Yachting Association .
• Many model sailboat enthusiasts have showcased their 3D printed footy sailboats on online forums such as the International Footy Class Association website.
• Additionally, the Footy Forum website offers a wealth of information and resources regarding building and racing footy sailboats.
• Another exciting development in sailboat modeling is the availability of 3D printed sailboat kits , including those for footy sailboats. These kits can come with pre-printed 3D parts that can be assembled to create a functional boat.

What online resources are available for building and racing 3D printed footy sailboats?

There are a number of online resources available for building and racing 3D printed footy sailboats, including forums, design files, tutorials, and videos. Some popular websites include Thingiverse, MyMiniFactory, and the International One Metre Class Association.

3D printing has revolutionized the world of model sailboat building, and the 3D printed footy sailboat is no exception. By using the precision and speed of 3D printing technology, enthusiasts can design and create boats like never before. The materials used in 3D printing are also extremely cost-effective, making it possible for more people to afford a high-quality model sailboat. The minimalist design of footy sailboats makes them a particularly attractive option for those new to model sailboat building, as they can be easily built and raced.

Looking to the future, it is clear that 3D printing will continue to play a significant role in the world of model sailboat building. As the technology advances, it may be possible to print even larger model sailboats with more intricate designs and features. With online communities and resources readily available, now is an excellent time to get involved in model sailboat building and experience the excitement of racing a 3D printed footy sailboat.

In conclusion, the 3D printed footy sailboat has brought about a new era of model sailboat building and racing. This innovative technology has made it possible for enthusiasts to create high-performing sailboats that are both affordable and easy to build. The 3D printing process has also allowed for greater precision and speed in boat building, ultimately leading to a more exciting and competitive sport. As more people become involved in model sailboat building and racing, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this fascinating hobby.

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International Footy Class Sailboat Hull Kit

About this product.

Footy: Where balsa becomes brilliant. Skip the plastic, embrace the natural! This eco-friendly kit allows you to transform laser-cut balsa wood into a stunning sailboat, ready to conquer ponds, pools or small lakes. The simple assembly means anyone can join the crew – no woodworking experience needed. It's the perfect project for parents and kids to bond over, creating memories and learning new skills together. So ditch the screens, feel the wood grain, and let the Footy ignite your passion for sailing!

Jeffrey Scott Zipay

Meet the Maker

I have been blessed to have the opportunity to make a living from my passions. The first is creating 360 virtual tours and video productions, followed by CNC machining, 3D printing and design, laser engraving, building and simply making things. I am also a Certified Sailing Instructor.  With everything I do, I bring my many years of creative experience, determination and love of sharing creative ideas.

How it’s Made

Kit includes instructions, all the laser-cut balsa to build a self sailing hull. This kit can be made as a self sailing or Remote Controlled sailboat. Requires rig, sails and hardware… super easy layout with wood or metal tubing and ripstop nylon. (Not Included) Check out our other items for more cool models made in the USA. Tools you may need that are not included are scissors, exact-o knife or razor blade, glue, epoxy or superglue, paint, sandpaper, painters tape hand or electric saw.

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The Musings of a Hopeless Wanderer

Engaging in the eternal search for the meaning of life...or a good time.

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Monday, September 3, 2018

Tackling moscow by train and boat.

Our first full day in Moscow started fairly late since we were still catching up on sleep.  Around 1, we finally were able to get our act together and get out the door. 

We stopped by a cafe to get some breakfast and headed over to the Red Square.  Since the festival is going on, we had to go through metal detectors.  Once we cleared security, we reached the State Historical Museum which provided an entrance to the Red Square.

We walked the length of the Red Square, passing by the Kazan cathedral.

Under normal conditions, the Red Square is a large walking area with the State Historical Museum on one end and St. Basil's on the other end.  On the sides is the Kremlin wall on one side and then the GUM shopping mall and the Kazan cathedral on the other side.  Presently, the walking area has been considerably narrowed and the fesitval grounds occupying a large space between the Kremlin and the mall.

We even asked a stranger to take our picture!

After walking around the Red Square, we had to leave to meet up with our Metro Tour.  

Moscow has famously pretty metro stations so metro tours are quite popular.  We booked a relatively inexpensive tour through a tour group which met outside of the Red Square.

On our way, we passed by the Kremlin gardens and the tomb to the unknown soldier and the eternal flame.

We soon met up with our group which, fortunately, was only 5 people.  Our guide told us that we were going to visit 8 stations during the 1.5 hour tour.  

Honestly, a lot of the stations blended in to me so I won't be able to give you a detailed description of all of them.  However, I did learn that there are 222 metro stations and the trains come every 2-3 minutes reliably.  For that reason, Moscow > DC. 

One of the first metro stations we visited had bronze statues all over of various depictions.  Many of the statues had superstitions tied to them.  For example, for a statue of the dog, it's held that if you rub the nose of the dog, you'll have good luck.  Consequently, most of the statue is tarnished - except for the nose.  I joked to Tomas that they probably rotate the "good luck" portion of the statue to ensure the entire statue gets polished.

However, I do remember some of the stations.

Novoslobodskaya is a station adorned with stained glass on the walls.

There was also Belarusskaya, which paid tribute to Belarus.

Another station which name I cannot remember but had pretty mosaics in the ceilings.

My favorite station was Komsomolskaya.  It's the busiest station and a hub for other connecting trains.  It was built during Statlin times and he wanted the station to embody beauty to set a good first impression to Russia.

I'd seen pictures of it beforehand since it's the most famous but it's so much more impressive in person.

Look at these ceilings!

Overall it was a very interesting tour.  Not sure of any other city which could offer a metro tour.  DC certainly can't...

After the tour, we headed back of the hotel to rest for a bit.  We had purchased tickets to a tour hour boat down the Moscow river.  The tickets were good for any time on any day and the boats left every 20min.  We decided to knock the tour out that day and headed over to the pier.  

We arrived at the pier and saw a boat by the company we had purchased from boarding.  We approached and they shook their head and said it wasn't the right boat. 

So we waited for another boat.

Another boat came along by the same company we had purchased from so weapproached them.  Again - we were told it wasn't the right boat and the boat we were looking for was coming.  

A third boat came along which was NOT by the company we had purchased from.  By this point, it had been longer than 20min waiting and I was starting to suspect that the correct boat was actually one of the ones which turned us away.   We approached the 3rd boat to ask if they knew which boat we should be on.  However, when we approached,  they waved us aboard without scanning our tickets.

So, we boarded the 3rd boat....which was definitely not ours.

We settled into an upper deck, open air table to take in the views.

We passed by pretty buildings.

The somewhat impressive cathedral of Christ the Savior.

This random statue.

After about hour on the cruise, Tomas remarked that it had been about an hour so we should be turning around soon.  I reminded him that we actually had no idea how long this cruise was or where we would be dropped off.  Since we were on the wrong boat.

Fortunately, it did turn around and took us back to the pier.  

For dinner, we decided to go to this burger place, Black Star Burger, which our guide told us about.  Tomas really liked his - I thought mine was OK.  It was a decent size patty with a mountain of Cole slaw on top.  We've realized that apparently Russians dislike getting their hands dirty while eating so some restaurants will give out gloves to use.  This particular restaurant gave out black gloves.

Tomas modeling our dinner.

Since little mum has been asking about pictures which show my feet, I assume she wanted to see my new shoes.  I recently bought Allbirds which are suppose to be super comfortable walking shoes which you wear without socks and can be washed.  I didn't wear them too extensively beforehand, so that was probably my first error.  I also didn't bring another pair of good walking shoes,  which was likely my second error.  The Allbirds were great the first two days without socks.  Midway through the third day, my right foot was quite unhappy. Left foot was a trooper. So, now I have a bandaid on the heel of my right foot and wear socks.  

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