Character counts

At our Freeport store, I want to be sure that each person who visits is made aware of two important things: 1) all of our bags are made from recycled sailcloth – not canvas; and 2) all of our bags are made in Maine. 

Sailed Around the World, Recycled in Maine. A close look around our store reveals special characteristics of retired sails that cannot be replicated in canvas –besides the fact that canvas becomes heavy when wet and is much slower to dry than Dacron.

Our store is full of subtle and unique features. Recently we have made quite a few bags designed with a bit of luff showing. The luff is the vertical edge of the sail, which runs alongside the mast. Luffing occurs when a sailing vessel moves too close into the wind and causes the sails to flap. The luff, a strong part of the sail, is a fuzzy fabric that feels like felt. Because we utilize as much of the used sail as possible, it is a treat to have a sail panel cut with the luff showing.

The tell-tail (or tell-tale) is my favorite feature on some sails. It is a tiny dot that holds a “tail” of string or ribbon in place on a sail. Depending on the location on the sail, the flapping tail can mean different things. For example, it is my understanding that a spiraling tell-tail indicates incorrect airflow on that side of the sail. We think they are a sign of good luck and we make the effort to incorporate them in our bags when possible.

Logos have become status symbols on purses and totes. It is a little different for us at Sea Bags. Whenever possible and appropriate, we cut retired sails and even big drawstring bags that carry sails into panels that include the logo of the sail company. And that is as cool as it is authentic. 

Not everyone notices these details. Some people question them. But these are subtle examples of Sea Bag’s authentic designs and commitment to repurposing sails when it comes to handcrafting style forward totes and accessories.