He collected Fechtbücher and undertook to compile all knowledge of the art of fencing in a compendium surpassing all earlier books.

For this, he engaged the painter Jörg Breu the Younger, as well as two experienced fencers, whom he charged with perfecting the techniques before they were painted.

The project was very costly, taking a full four years, and according to Mair, consumed most of his family's income and property.

Not only did Mair spend huge sums on his collections and on his projects, he also had a very expensive lifestyle, frequently hosting receptions for the more important burghers of Augsburg.

Mair compiled a voluminous, encyclopedic compendium of the martial arts of his time, collected in 16 books in two volumes.