Charleston business recycles more than 7,000 sails into new products

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Reclaimed sails are finding new purpose in a new shop that opened in downtown Charleston.

Sea Bags opened its second South Carolina retail store March 18 at 84 N. Market St., showcasing designer bags, totes and accessories made from recycled sail cloth. To-date, the company has reclaimed more than 7,000 tons of sail cloth since 2017. In 2021 alone, Sea Bags collected 7,000 sails that were no longer in use, the company said in a news release.

“With its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and pastel buildings, Charleston is truly one of the most charming port cities in the country” Sea Bags CEO Don Oakes said in a statement. “We are so looking forward to becoming a part of the Charleston community and welcoming its locals and visitors into our newest storefront, to both learn more about our products and brand as well as provide the opportunity to expand our sail trade program.” 

Through the Sea Bags Sail Trade Program, people can donate old or unused sails. For every usable sail, Sea Bags offers customers a Sea Bags product in trade. The company will pick up sails or donations can be dropped off at any of the brand’s retail stores.

The Charleston location is Sea Bags’ 39th U.S. store. There is also a shop in North Myrtle Beach. The company, which opened in 2016 in Maine, plans to further expand its South Carolina footprint later this year with a Hilton Head location.