Introduction to From Around the Shop: It is a Tanbark-thing!

 A recent trip to the sail loft above our “shop” on Custom House Wharf was quite revealing. Mysteriously the loft defies the law of physics that proves heat rises.  Behind a thick curtain and up the narrow staircase, there is an extensive collection of sails chilling like fine wine.

Despite the overwhelming appearance, I did notice an organizational system to the bounty of used sails stacked on industrial shelves. The rainbow spectrum of spinnaker material is along the right wall. On top of the billowing mounds of Dacron, there are rolls and rolls of criss-crossed Kevlar.

To the left where the afternoon sun pours through the window, I saw a pile of panels in hues ranging from rustic brick to the lighter shades of a faded picnic table. I had discovered (maybe not “discovered” but it was new to me) Tanbark in the sail loft.

The unique Tanbark color was achieved by submerging the sails in tannins which is a compound usually derived from tree bark. During the days of canvas sails, the process was used to protect the sails from rot, mold and mildew. Tanbark is a nostalgic color and a charming look that represents the essence of cruising under sail. 

Now Dacron sails can be dyed this color. These panels in our loft were cut from retired sails used on large teaching vessels such as schooners or sloops.

Tanbark is not only aesthetically pleasing, but the color reduces glare, and the dye pigment offers improved UV protection over a natural shade. The finish is a medium firm with high quality weaves. The cloth is only available in the heaviest of weights so there isn’t much interest among modern racers/cruisers.

I am among the first to admit that Tanbark sailcloth makes a handsome and rugged bag. The reddish brown color reminds me of a rustic sunset and the look adds an historical affect to a modern material.

What aspects of life on Custom House Wharf or manufacturing at Sea Bags have you always wondered about?

Many of the racing sail are made with carbon or kevlar for strength. Some of the sail we recycle are these types of sail. They are not the traditional white that you see so commonly on our website. Below are three custom orders that use these alternative sails - We love the "pops" of color. What do you think?

There is no denying it. Summer is over. In Maine we don’t allow Labor Day or the start of the school year dictate the end of summer. We unofficially annex September and have been known to feel entitled to summer-like (albeit while wearing more layers for warmth) activities through Columbus Day weekend.  But that is pushing it.

"Fashion shouldn't be about what is appropriate. Getting dressed is much more fun if it's about satisfying you." -Alexander Wang

I could not have put this any better. I can't stand it when people ask me or each other "What should I wear?" Or, "What are you going to wear?" Fashion is a way of self-expression. It is exploring your OWN likes and dislikes - the way you dress or adorn yourself should be completely about you and what makes you feel good and confident. It simply does not matter if someone else would or would not wear the same thing.

"Less is More." -My Own Mother

This is true is so many cases - in fashion and in life. More often than not people try to wear all top trends of the season at once, when really only one trend at a time will work. Too many trends can complicate the outcome. I find this to be especially true when getting dressed up....the simpler the better. If you have a beautiful dress you never want to take away from it with to much jewelry and/or make-up. So the more dressed up, more polished & put together I want to look the less extras I add.

"Wear what you like and what makes you feel good!" -Marc Jacobs

Follow your instincts about what looks good on you! Take some risks but always know yourself well enough not to stray too far from what makes you be you.

"The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It’s the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows & the beauty of a woman only grows with passing years." -Audrey Hepburn

Leave it to are beloved Audrey to put fashion in its place. True style comes from within, not from the objects draped all over the person!

Most would not know this about me, but the 4th of July is my all-time favorite time of year. Just the thought of it brings back vivid childhood memories of watching fireworks light up the Maine summer night sky. And, this time of year, in particular, has always been the vision of All-American Style to me.  

American Style is not just the obvious stars, stripes, red, white and blue. It’s history, knowledge and an understanding of the resilient spirit of America. Working class folks, farmers, cowboys and pioneer women, inspire this style. Traditional navy blue blazers, lots of denim, cotton prairie style, white eyelet & floral fabrics, basic tee, button downs shirts, chunky hand-knits, plaids, picnic plaids and much more. Denim is the staple and it is an iconic Americana fabric. Originally developed in the States, jeans have been around for longer then most care to remember. They echo a look that is uncomplicated, practical, and versatile. It is one of the most universally loved fabrics around the world.

Whatever your plans are for July 4th be sure to make your own fireworks by celebrating where you live and take some fashion inspiration from your country as well!