About J-M Sails and Bags

 

At J‑M Sails and Bags, we believe sails deserves a second life. Born from the vision of seasoned sailor and sailmaker Jean‑Martin Grisar, our Italian workshop breathes new purpose into retired sails—turning them into beautiful, durable bags, accessories, and home décor that carry the spirit of their seafaring past. Relax and read on...Recycled sailcloth cushion covers handmade in Italy by J-M Sails and Bags

Our Philosophy: Craftsmanship Meets Sustainability

Each sail we reclaim has its own story—weathered by storms, crossed oceans, or raced in prestigious events. Rather than letting these high‑performance materials end up as waste, we upcycle them by hand, preserving their character and transforming them into pieces that combine elegance with everyday functionality. Through this process, we honor the sail’s original purpose and champion an eco‑conscious approach to design.

Still J(ustine)M's bag view from the back side

A Legacy Woven into Every Product

Every bigger handcrafted item comes with a label recounting its origins—what boat it sailed on, which seas it has seen, which races it joined or who was on board. This personal narrative connects you directly to a chapter of maritime history, making each piece far more than just a bag—it’s a keepsake of adventure. From now on we look at a qr-code system to develop this little feature a little more

Qr code

Teaching & Mentorship

We’re committed not only to creating sustainable products but also to passing on the art of sailmaking and upcycling. Through workshops, apprenticeships, and community collaborations, we teach the next generation the skills and values behind our craft—ensuring that these traditions and eco‑friendly practices live on.

Not the easiest way to make something small and light on a big sewing machine. Upcycling sails at the extreme

Who is J-M Sails and Bags?

Jean-Martin Grisar is a lifelong sailor and experienced sailmaker whose career spans the world’s most prestigious sailing competitions. From his early days racing dinghies to working on maxis, TP52s, the America’s Cup (with Victory Challenge and Orient Express Racing Team), and the Volvo Ocean Race (with ABN Amro, Ericsson Racing, Groupama, Abu Dhabi, The Boatyard, and 11th Hour Racing), Jean-Martin has built deep expertise in the art and science of sailmaking.

Having collaborated with elite sailors and top sail lofts across the globe, he has mastered high-performance materials such as Dacron, Kevlar, Spectra, carbon fiber, 3DL, and 3Di. Today, he brings that wealth of experience to J-M Sails and Bags, crafting sustainable, elegant products that reflect his passion for both innovation and timeless design.

Cutting up a sail at the local marina. The sailcloth is almost ready for a second life

Join Us on Deck

Whether you’re a sailor, a sustainability advocate, or simply someone seeking a unique accessory with soul, J‑M Sails and Bags invites you to carry a story wherever you go. Discover craftsmanship, heritage, education, and environmental stewardship—stitched together in every one of our creations.