Our Story
WashAshore Store started in late January 2016 on the shores of Winthrop, Massachusetts.
Here is our story.
While living in Winthrop, MA 2015-2016 I would take daily walks on the beach near my home with my dogs. Each day we would pick up as much trash as we could and throw it out on our way home. However, after a winter storm surge (blizzard Jonas in January 2016) we found large piles of rope, along with much more debris from the ocean, and decided to begin to upcycle the rope and driftwood.
I have been a dog walker (among other things) and in the pet care industry for a decade, in addition to owning dogs my entire life. I have a good idea of what is functional and practical with dog leashes and enjoy incorporating these styles into what I make. In addition to making what I already want to design I also love hearing from followers what they would like to see.
Raised in a nautical, dog loving and "green" centric family has made this new endeavor very exciting, and natural. I am very excited to be putting multiple passions together to create these leashes and collars and would love feedback both from customers and dog enthusiasts in order to best provide what everyone is looking for.
All items are handcrafted by myself, and the rope that is dyed is hand dyed in small batches. Each leash and collar come with a tag noting where (and some when) the rope used was found. The tag is tied on with scrap rope and string, also found washed ashore.
Our Process
All rope was originally found washed ashore, mostly on Boston area beaches, and would go through a 2 day cleaning process prior to any assembly. All clip hardware is new and marine grade.
These days I also accept rope you have found washed ashore or retired from boating or ocean farming as a donation, or for discounts. Message me if you have or have found rope you may be interested in having crafted into upcycled leashes or other items.
I will be accepting back any purchased leashes and collars to be re-upcycled. Purchaser will be responsible for shipping cost but will get a discount on a new item for their trade. Contact me for more details.
Currently anchored in Maine