Hi everyone!

I’m back with my second blog post of 2019 and I’m writing something a little different to what I normally write but this is something I’m excited about. In my old blog, I did write a few reviews and as always, I talked about things that I found interesting.

During my absence from here, I have been busy chatting with a few ladies who inspire me and I hope they will inspire you too. For as long as I can remember, I have always admire and have had huge respect for those who follow their dreams, and slowly turning them into reality. The First Lady I would like to introduce you to is Becky who makes custom designed bags and accessories.
Here follows a chat that I have had with her about her business:

What is the craft that you do?

I make customized bags, purses and accessories.

Clients can choose;

- the type of bag they like
- an exterior fabric
- a lining and any accessories

Allowing them to design a customized product that expresses their individual tastes and personality.


When did you start doing it?

I started creating hand sewn cotton bags and purses for friends and family in mid 2015. Interest grew quickly along with requests for more complex products, so I began using a sewing machine early in 2016. Recently I purchased an industrial sewing machine, allowing for the creation of higher quality bespoke products.


What made you start?

I longed for a handbag, that mirrored my personality and provided all the features I wanted/needed - after scouring the shops and the internet, I came to the disappointing conclusion that it didn’t exist. So thought - I know I’ll make it myself.

My auntie is a keen sewist, so I pestered her for advice, which she kindly provided and got me started. Now I have a new bag especially for me every couple of months and a raft of other bags that I’ve sold to loving owners.


Where did you learn?

As mentioned earlier, my aunt helped me get started. She gifted me my first pattern which was if I remember rightly The Window Shopper Tote, by Patterns by Mrs H.

The rest I learnt from YouTube along with a lot of trial and error, I learn something new with every bag and strive to make every product I make better than the last.


Who inspires you?

There are so many, I’m not sure where to start. Obviously my aunt, not only has she been incredibly kind in sharing her knowledge, she also produces really beautiful bags - she does however keep them all to herself!

There’s also a lovely American sewist who regularly posts on Facebook and offers lots of amazing tips and tricks on creating stunning bags. Seeing her work gave me the confidence to start selling the bags I have created myself.

Also the countless pattern and fabric designers such as Blue Calla, Tula Pink, Swoon Patterns, Alison Glass and Bagstock. Their bold and beautiful fabric designs and complex bags and accessories patterns, have afforded me the opportunity to turn my hobby into a living.

What are your goals?

To continue to;

- Improve my skills
- Grow my business - I would love some day to employ fellow sewists, so they can also enjoy making a living from their passion.
- Perhaps open a brick and mortar shop someday.
- Continue to make beautiful bespoke bags that hopefully bring a little bit of joy to their owners.


Where do you see yourself in 5 years time with your crafting?

In 5 years time I would like to employ a team of sewists to work with me on a range of projects.

Within 10 years I would like to have a successful brand with several shops on the high street. Maybe a little bit ambitious but everyone has to start somewhere.


What has been your favorite item that you have made so far?

A beautifully bright and colorful mini messenger for a charity auction.


What advice do you have for anyone who’s thinking about starting out?

You may feel disappointed with your first few makes, keep trying your skills will only improve with each item you make. If you could only see some of my early creations, you would see that no one is born knowing how to create something functional but also pretty.



I would like to thank Becky for letting me chat to her and sharing it on here with all of you, I sincerely hope that she has all the success that she deserves. I absolutely love and adore the zebra bag that she designed and created for me and my wheelchair, it is such good quality. Many bags I have tried on my wheelchair have not lasted as long or as well as the bag she has made, and I’m sure it will last me for quite some time. Definitely one of my all time favourite gifts that I have received and I definitely recommend all of you to check out her instagram, and contact her if you want to know any more. She will be happy to answer any queries you have.

To find Becky on Facebook, follow the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/MooreSewingR/

Thank you all for reading this post and keep a look out for my next lady guest!!

Katie. X