How I Design My Bags

I'm realizing now that most people don't know where I get the patterns and designs for my handbags. So I thought I'd use this post to answer that question. Here it is.

My Head. That is the answer. I am constantly on the lookout for new patterns and handbag ideas. Then I lose sleep at night, trying to figure out how they will come together. Then I get up and try it on some scraps the next day. That's it :)

It is my "not so fancy, but works for me" design process. It is actually my favorite part of my business.

Some works in progress. Notice the sticky notes?
 I'd be lost without them! 

Designing my next product and holding it in my hands. Some things work beautifully. Some things are labeled "one of a kind". They are labeled one of a kind, usually because they were so difficult to put together that I never want to do it again!

OOAK: in other words, cute, but super hard for me to put together :)

But that's where my creative process gives me some freedom. Sometimes I will stop a design, only to pick it up with a new idea a few months later. When making one thing, it gives me a great idea for another. And so on.

I loved the ruffle I put on this wristlet so much, it inspired me to think bigger...

So I added a few more, and came up with...

THIS! Who says less is more?!?!

On Friday I will post how I actually document my patterns and re-create them. I'm not promising it will be pretty.... :)

I finally made my ruffle bag! (and I can't wait to make more)

So for about a year now, I've had this little picture of a ruffle tote bag hanging on my computer in my studio. I always thought it was cute, but never had a free minute to experiment with the design. Fast forward to about two weeks ago. I get an email from a friend that read something like this..."I love this (picture of cute bag) for it's straps. I love this (picture of another cute bag) for the fabric....and I love THIS BAG!" And what was it? Oh yes, the very same ruffly bag idea that I've been looking at for over a year! I took this as a sign. I needed to do it NOW! So I told her I was not only up for the challenge, but excited to give it a whirl. Here is what I came up with:

It makes me want to twirl around!

I kept the ruffles to one side...didn't want to get TOO crazy!

I put a magnetic snap on this bag. I wanted it to have a slouchy,hobo look.
But I do plan to design a double handle- tote style with a zipper for all of you zipper fans! 

Up close and personal with the ruffles :)

My 6 year old took these pictures to show the size of the bag on me.
She may not understand cropping and backgrounds but  you get a nice view of my garage.
Sparkly clean thanks to the hubs :)

I'll have to tell the hubs to get out and pressure wash the driveway. It doesn't look sparkly like the garage!
 But Spencer doesn't seem to mind. He'll sleep anywhere!

Cute Business Card Holder Tutorial

I just found this super cute idea on The Crafty Cupboard! I can't wait to make one for myself...As a matter of fact, it's Sunday afternoon, kids are watching tv...I'm off!

If you are looking for a cute business card holder and have an ounce of craftiness in you, I think this is pretty simple. I think it would also be a cute credit card holder. If not, I'm sure I could make one for you :) Enjoy!

                    http://craftycupboard.blogspot.com/2011/03/how-to-business-card-holder.html

My Newest Bag Design :)

Yesterday I caught the design bug. So I got my room in order, found a movie for the kiddos and went to work. I love the whole design process, from picking a fabric to holding the finished bag in my hands. The further I get, and as I see a brand new design come together, it just keeps getting better and better.

I grabbed an arm at Chloe's softball game to model for me. Thanks,Audi :)
 I was not allowed full body or face shots,lol!

I made huge double pockets on the front, which are detailed with a cute little finger pleated ruffle.

The bag is 4 inches deep, so it has a TON of space inside.

I wanted handles that were more than just utilitarian....but cute! So I added the rings :)

I was in a yellow mood, so I used a cute vintage yellow fabric with a new, buttery yellow plaid.
The trim is chocolate brown.  Can anyone guess what my favorite color is??? Hehe!


I have to price this bag yet, but my best guess is $45.  I have fabric laid out to make about 6 or so more, in different colors/patterns, so I should get some on etsy soon.  I even have some prints/combinations that I haven't used before, so be on the look out!
Hint: One contains an animal print. I am NOT an animal print fan, but this one is too much fun! I had to do it.