I am the owner of Out of Sails and in 2018 I started making these lovely items from used sails when I inherited a sewing machine and came across some old sails.
I grew up in the West Midlands so nowhere near any sea but in a moment of madness my parents, who had never sailed before, decided to buy a boat, a decision they would never regret. The boat was launched in the April whilst my Mum was pregnant with me so I have been boating all my life.
Roll on a few years and I moved to Portsmouth to start working in the marina industry. I have owned two sail boats, a Jaguar 21 and a Feeling 286 both of which I skippered in the Round the Island Race a couple of times.
Starting Out of Sails came by accident, I had never done anything like this before but thought I would give it a go and see what happens! I made a few bags for friends who thought they were great and encouraged me to have a go at making more items. Their critique helped me develop the products I have for sale today.
I really enjoy making each of these products (I do have my favourites) especially when I have coloured sails as they look so different. Each one really is unique as it has its own distinguishing marks and character, unfortunately I don’t always know the history of the sail. Just use your imagination to decide which oceans it has sailed. I do hope you like all of the products I make and if you would like a bespoke item then I am always happy to discuss
