All Eighth Belle bags and goods are handmade in a little solar powered studio nestled between the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains from retired sails from working boats. Great care is taken in the production process and material sourcing to ensure long lasting, durable goods produced with a limited environmental impact. The maker, Korina Brewer, gained her skills from working in leather studios, in a sail loft and on sailboats.
Sails are sourced from along the Eastern Seaboard and across the Great Lakes. The retired sails from working boats are collected, cut, cleaned and sewn into our one of a kind repurposed sailcloth bags. All sails used by Eighth Belle are lightweight, strong, and water resistant, making the perfect material for durable and versatile goods long after their job on the boat is complete.
Inspiration for the line is drawn from life on the water, maritime tradition and the adventures our sails had in their past lives. Paired with naturally derived materials like vegetable tanned leather and plant dyed organic cotton, these bags are perfect for both boat and seaside life. All goods are handmade with the earth in mind in our little studio in the Catskill Mountains.
Some Bags From Eighth Belle:
BOOK royal ocean – Lightweight shoulder tote for everyday carry. Repurposed Dacron sailcloth body. Sturdy canvas dock contrast bottom. Hand painted stripe detail. Solid brass twist lock closure. Interior pocket. Natural vegetable tanned leather adjustable strap. Leather edges are hand burnished and conditioned for a long lasting finish. Straps are fastened to the bag with solid copper rivets and leather backing. Measures approx. 8.5″ x 6.5″ base, 12″ high and 15″ across at top. Strap drop is 12″.
VOYAGE golden sunrise – The voyage tote is great for travel, on the boat or at the beach. Lightweight and water resistant. Uniquely made from recycled sailcloth. Repurposed sailcloth body. Brass zippered top closure with leather pull. Durable duck canvas contrast bottom. Hand painted stripe detail. Natural vegetable tanned leather straps. Leather is burnished and conditioned for a long lasting finish. Straps are fastened to the bag with hand set copper rivets and leather backing. Measures approx. 11″ x 8.5″ base, 15.5″ high and 19″ across at top. Strap drop is 10″.
BEFORE THE MAST WEEKENDER – Our durable and waterproof weekender is your new travel companion! Inspired by the memoir by Richard Henry Dana Jr., Two Years Before the Mast, this seaworthy carry-all is ready for adventure on both land and sea. Built to last with water resistant naturally waxed heavy duty canvas. Fully lined with organic cotton. Zipper top closure with leather pull. Black / brass teeth zipper with brass bell zipper pulls. Zippered exterior front pocket to stow passport / easy access to small items. Two easy access exterior back pockets great for books or travel snacks. Two small interior pockets perfect for wallet, keys & phone. Full grain vegetable tanned leather straps. Bag can be held in your hand or over your shoulder. Leather edges are hand beveled, burnished & sealed for a long lasting finish. Strap is attached with solid copper rivets. Measures approx. 23” wide x 9” deep x 14” tall
LUNCH MARITIME – Roll top bag great for lunch or small item storage. Water resistant waxed cotton canvas body. Natural cotton rope tie closure doubles as a handle. Roll bag down taller or shorter for desired size. Measures approx. 6″ x 3.5″ base, and 14″ high. approx. 10 – 12″ high when tied. Each item is made by hand in our studio using repurposed and natural materials. Your bag will be beautifully unique – please expect slight variation and natural imperfections in material.