St. John Sailsack Co. Upcycles Caribbean Sailcloth into Handmade Bags
St. John Sailsack Co. transforms retired Caribbean sails into handcrafted bags and accessories, giving sailcloth a second life in Cruz Bay.
Discarded sails that once crossed Caribbean waters are getting a second life in Cruz Bay. At St. John Sailsack Co., retired sailcloth is transformed into handcrafted bags and island-inspired goods.
Based in Mongoose Junction on St. John, the family-run workshop creates a range of products including totes, travel bags, crossbody styles, beach carry-alls, pillows, and custom pieces. Most materials are sourced from boats throughout the Virgin Islands, giving each item a direct connection to the region’s sailing culture.
From Hurricane Debris to Everyday Use
The idea gained momentum following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, which left a large number of sails damaged, removed, and often destined for landfill.
Instead, these sails are:
- Cleaned and restored
- Cut and repurposed
- Recrafted into durable, one-of-a-kind products
In many cases, customers even recognize the original vessel their bag came from—adding a personal and historical layer to each piece.
Craft Meets Caribbean History
“Every sail we use once traveled the waters around the Virgin Islands, so each piece carries a bit of Caribbean history with it,” says Kandace Lainhart, who runs the company alongside Captain Jay Rushing and Laney Fowler.
This blend of sustainability, craftsmanship, and storytelling has become a defining feature of the brand.
Where to Find Them
Visitors can stop by the Cruz Bay storefront to:
- Shop ready-made items
- Design custom pieces
- Learn the story behind each sail
Online ordering is also available worldwide.
The company is expanding through its sister brand, Caribbean Canvas Co., with products now reaching retailers across:
- St. Croix
- St. Thomas
- Puerto Rico
- St. Maarten
Why It Matters
As sustainability becomes more important in the marine industry, initiatives like this highlight a practical solution—turning waste into functional, meaningful products while preserving a piece of Caribbean sailing history.
What to Do Next
- Visit the Cruz Bay shop at Mongoose Junction
- Explore custom sailcloth designs
- Browse collections online: www.stjohnsailsackco.com
Carol Bareuther has written for ALL AT SEA since 2004.
Worth your time?
Thanks — noted.
