I have benefited for over twenty years from getting sails from Brent Gillies both when operating his own loft and more recently with two suits of sails from the Hyde Loft. I still race in a mixed keel boat fleet and the Hyde sails were built firstly for an S&S 41 and the secondly for an S&S 44. Both suits have proved to be successful after being set up with Brent’s assistance. He has been extremely supportive coming to the Marina after working hours to get the initial measurements for new sails and to collect them when minor repairs have been required. While his loft is a small operation he gives excellent personal service and I see no reason to look elsewhere for my sails
John Webber Quicksilver and Trojan Eagle
I first met Brent Gillies when I was maintaining the sailing boats for our local Sea Scout Group. At this time Brent was our “go to” man for sail repairs and general canvas work. This work was always professionally done, and when asked for, advice was cheerfully given. I did not however get to understand Brent’s very extensive knowledge and capabilities as a sail maker until I commissioned him to make up a new set of sails for one of the Scout cutters, including a Genoa which is not a standard cutter sail, and which needed to be designed from scratch. Brent’s knowledge regarding sail cloth choices, sail design and sail fittings proved to be extensive, and his recommendations to suit a budget very sound.
In 2017 I had Brent work on a set of new sails for our Lagoon 400 cruising catamaran, including a significant change in the design of the mainsail. Again Brent’s knowledge of the available options with regard to sail cloth and fittings were extensive, and he provided well considered and professional recommendations in a most personable manner. We did some of the measuring and fittings work ourselves and Brent was happy to provide well founded guidance and assistance. The new redesigned main sail, and the new Genoa, have proven themselves during testing, and we now look forward to a safe and trouble free passage around the South Pacific.
I’m happy to recommend Bent to anyone contemplating new sails, or having existing sails redesigned and/or repaired.
