WW2 Canadian RCN Navy Sailmaker Trade Patch

The WW2 Canadian RCN Navy Sailmaker Trade Patch represents the insignia worn by personnel qualified as sailmakers in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Second World War. This cloth badge identifies members trained in the maintenance, repair, and fabrication of canvas equipment, such as sails, awnings, and other fabric-related ship components. Typically, the patch is constructed from navy blue wool with an embroidered white or off-white symbol—usually featuring a needle and thread motif. The patch would have been worn on the right sleeve of the naval uniform, signaling the wearer’s specialized skills to fellow sailors and officers. These patches formed part of a broader system of trade badges within the RCN, designed to indicate proficiency and assignment within specific technical trades. Period examples provide valuable insight into the training, roles, and daily operations aboard Canadian naval vessels during WW2, as well as broader aspects of RCN organization and uniform standards.