Q: What are these bags made of?
A: They are a woven plastic, sometimes with a plastic coating. I work with several types of grain bags, some more sturdy than others, and try to find the best use possible for each type of bag.
Q: Where do the grain bags come from?
A: Mostly from Footbridge Brewery in Boothbay Harbor, ME, but some have come from other breweries who like the concept.
Q: Is the entire grain bag used?
A: The Super Sturdy Tote uses half of 2 kinds of bags, and 2 Knap Totes use an entire grain bag. The zipper pockets and bottle opener holder are made from scraps from other bags. I try to use as much of every bag as possible, but some scraps, and damaged bag fabric do get thrown away.
Q: Does anyone else make bags like this?
A: There are other people making bags out of grain and malt bags though I think mine are different than most. One of my favorite artists is Blue Earth from here in Maine. They have great products.
Q: Aren’t you afraid someone will steal your designs and start making bags?
A: I’d be delighted if others started making bags and I wish them all the success in the world! Every bag that doesn’t go into a landfill is better for everyone.
Q: Can you make a custom bag?
A: Maybe. If it is just particular colors on the zippers I can usually accommodate that. But I am busy enough that it is hard to devote time to design a totally new bag that I’d feel comfortable selling without testing all the stress points.
Q: Can I request a bag made from a particular grain bag?
A: Maybe. I only have bags in the colors I get, and some designs come my way less often. You can request a particular color and I’ll do my best to keep you in mind. Also, some of these bags are constructed differently and don't have the structure for certain bag designs.