There’s something special about holding onto an item designed and crafted for your own personal use.
As an artist and maker, I feel a great sense of satisfaction making quality items that can stand the test of time. While I enjoy creating paintings and sculptural works, as a mode of personal expression, there is something about sharing functional items with others that brings with it a sense of purpose. Nearly a decade ago, one of my sisters asked me to start buying two of every bag I would purchase for myself, as she always appreciated my taste in prints and style. I took that to heart, and decided to take that just a few steps further. A signature hobo bag for her next birthday, was my first step into truly functional work. Since that time, I have been designing and creating a variety of items as the occasion would arise. Messenger bags have been my personal favorite to make. The messenger bag I created for myself, out of duct cloth, cotton and leather, has been going strong for five years now, and I am anything but gentle. Also, I have made backpacks, totes, handbags, clutches of all sizes, eyeglass cases, bow ties, and a single quilt, so far. The fabrics I gravitate toward are almost always durable in nature. Most of all, I like to play with a mixture of textures, colors and patterns to help bring a bit more joy to everyday experiences.
