Sailrite is a second generation family business. Founded in 1969 the business was intended to serve a function no other business had ever served as a source of instruction and materials for amateur sailmakers. At that time the very concept of “amateur sailmaking” was new. Sailmaking was generally believed a black art. Sailrite has largely changed this view and today is well known as a provider of sail kits to serious racers, boat builders and sailors owning good old boats. These individuals build sails to broaden their self-reliance and power their boats. Sailmaking is a great deal of fun and a very satisfying hobby.

By 1985 it became evident that Sailrite’s market was growing the fastest in areas other than sailmaking. Amateur “canvas” projects and instructions started to become the main focus. Sailrite’s founder, Jim Grant, wrote and published his book The Complete Canvasworker’s Guide which is still in print today (second edition). Sailrite started to offer kits for dodgers, biminis, mainsail covers, foredeck bags and a whole host of other enticing projects for the growing do-it-yourself crowd. The Sailrite catalog was also growing in size every year as customers offered suggestions for new kits and products to add to Sailrite’s offering.

Just before the turn of the century Sailrite started to become a large retailer of semi-industrial sewing machines for canvas workers. Today Sailrite offers several well known Sailrite branded and patented sewing machines. These include the Ultrafeed line of portable walking foot machines and the larger industrial Sailrite 111. Sailrite machines are the best available and support is top notch! With the addition of sewing machines Sailrite became a one stop shop for both canvas workers and sailmakers.

Now Sailrite is branching out even further. Niche markets continue to grow as Sailrite adds hardware and fabrics for automotive interiors and home decor.

Sailrite is truly a canvas worker’s hardware store. The company’s full product line of nearly 6,000 items is viewable online. As a full stocking retailer of marine fabrics, fasteners, thread, webbing, sail hardware, industrial and semi-industrial portable sewing machines, clear vinyl, awning hardware and do-it-yourself sail/canvas projects you will be able to find everything you need!