PTWC’s Upcycled Bags Combine Local Craftsmanship with Coastal Protection

Protect the West Coast’s (PTWC) collection of upcycled bags and backpacks gives recovered materials a new purpose while supporting the protection of the West Coast. Made from materials such as Bedouin tents, used sails and advertising banners, these durable bags combine functionality with local craftsmanship and come with a lifetime repair warranty.

The collection is produced by Cape Town manufacturer OpenSource Circular (OSC), which employs local artisans to make the bags by hand. OSC specialises in turning commercial waste materials into consumer goods and merchandise for brands, schools, events and businesses. Its work is grounded in circular economy principles, keeping materials useful through reuse, thoughtful manufacturing and repair.

For PTWC, the partnership connects the way our merchandise is made with the work it helps to fund. Proceeds from the collection support the organisation’s efforts to protect the fragile ecosystems and communities of the West Coast from destructive mining.

Turning recovered fabric into a finished bag requires considerable care. Materials vary in thickness, strength and condition, and the manufacturing process must accommodate those differences. Designers need to consider how each fabric will perform, while machinists bring the experience needed to work it into a practical, durable product.

OSC’s approach includes a commitment to looking after what it makes. Every product carries a lifetime repair warranty, helping customers keep their bags in use rather than replace them when something goes wrong. Repair is part of the circular manufacturing model, extending the useful life of the materials and the craftsmanship invested in them.

The material supply chain is another important part of that process. OSC works with companies that have reusable waste, surplus stock and offcuts, creating opportunities for those materials to become products. Its manufacturing team works with recovered fabrics ranging from stretch tent canvas and advertising billboards to yacht sails and upholstery offcuts.

For supporters, choosing a PTWC bag is a practical way to contribute to coastal protection. The purchase helps fund the scientific, legal and communications work needed to scrutinise mining proposals, challenge questionable decisions and keep the public informed about threats to the West Coast.

It also supports the kind of enterprise PTWC wants to encourage: local skills and manufacturing that make better use of existing resources. Our partnership with OSC reflects our commitment to promoting economic opportunities that respect the environment and can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Whether packed for a coastal weekend or carried through the working week, a PTWC bag connects everyday use with a wider purpose. The materials have another life, the craftsmanship remains in use, and the purchase helps us continue our work.

Explore the PTWC bag collection and help protect the West Coast.