Семидесятилетие традиции: мастерская Sperry Sails в Массачусетсе продолжает шить паруса вручную

This Massachusetts sailmaker still builds custom sails by hand Sperry Sails continues a hands-on tradition across its lofts in southeastern Massachusetts One of the last independent sail makers left in the marketplace, Sperry Sails will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026. The materials may be modern, but the craft of sailmaking is still touched by human hands every step of the way. After a skiing injury derailed his career out West, Ben Sperry unexpectedly stepped into the family business and never looked back. Now president and majority owner of Sperry Sails — a sailmaking company founded by his uncle Steve Sperry in Marion, Massachusetts — Ben leads one of the last independent sail lofts in the region. What began as a job taken on crutches 25 years ago has grown into a lifelong craft. Sperry Sails produces paneled sails — custom creations built from rolls of fabric, cut into precision panels, and stitched together by hand. The process blends engineering and artistry, with each sail carrying a personality all its own. Operating out of lofts in Marion, Dartmouth, and Martha’s Vineyard, the company has also expanded into custom canvas covers for sail and powerboats. Every project begins with a conversation and results in a made-to-order product designed for performance and personality. "Some sails are just absolute winners," said Ben. "And some need a little extra work, but every one is built with care." Though not affiliated with the famous Sperry footwear brand, Ben admits the name recognition doesn’t hurt. What truly sets them apart, though, is craftsmanship, consistency, and a love of life on the water.