graphic design, art, typography and architecture

Now what do seat belts and sails have in common? Well, you’d be hard-pressed to come up with an answer to that one. However, for the designer Matsuoka Tadashi, it’s pretty obvious. Using authentic sails and used car seatbelts, he creates great looking bags/totes, holdalls and rucksacks to name but a few. In a recent interview, he explained that in using these materials he’s able to create naturally durable, water-resistant and fashionable products whilst at the same time recycling materials that are usually overlooked.

The seatbelts often serve as handles and by extension are used to give added strength; they also make for great detailing. Moreover, he continues the nautical theme by using authentic sailing cleats, ropes and other parts, thus making for excellent quality products, with a unique look and feel. So the next time you see seat belts and sails in the same sentence, you’ll know that Matsuoka Tadashi is involved.

All of his products are handmade, with great attention to detail. I especially like the labels, the inspiration for which often comes from the stickers that remain for the most part hidden in car door wells. His company, Graph Design, make a wide range of bags, and they will also consider “own-label” products made to the same high standards.

An English web site is in the pipeline so, in the meantime, if you’d like to find out more, then simply leave a message here.