All items by Willow Began

Maker of bags and quilts!

I guess like many people in this industry, my interest in sewing started during lockdown. I had a brand new puppy who couldn't stop chewing anything with zips! With nowhere open to replace her dog beds I decided to buy a sewing machine so that I could fix them instead. Once I had the machine and had fixed ALL the beds - and with nowhere else to go - I decided to try and learn how to sew properly. I read a book or two, watched a few tutorials on YouTube and came across a simple bag pattern. Whilst the bag isn't my style, I fell in love with bag making right then and there. The fact that I created something tangible, from just a few materials, and in just a few hours was so satisfying. And unlike making clothes, I didn't have to worry about the fit.

Thus began my bag making journey... all because of a cheeky pup named Willow. And the initial idea for a potential hobby business was born!

I now make all kinds of bags. Everything from a simple foldable shopping bag, to a multi-pocketed backpack. My favourite fabrics to use are denim, faux leather, and canvas: although anything with a bold colour or an interesting print is like catnip to me. I usually buy fabric and hardware when I see something I love, rather than with any particular project in mind. However, there are a few patterns I've used that have inspired a project too. I also love to use an interesting fabric for the linings of my bags.

I still rely on other designers for a bag pattern, but as I gain skills I am starting to branch out and I'm creating more bespoke bags. I'm using skills I learnt from other project to adapt pockets or styles to my needs.

I also love to make quilts, although these take much longer and I've usually got a few "works in progress" going along side my regular bag projects.

I have a very teeny tiny home office where I make all of my creations, but I'm fast running out of space, so now I need to start selling my bags to free up space so I can continue to make more!

If you see something you like, but would prefer a different colour or fabric, then please get in touch. I'm happy to make a bag based on your preferences. My door is always open to discuss everything from hardware colour, pocket linings, or even zip teeth! Believe me when I say that I can talk about fabrics all day! Equally if you see a fabric you like, but would like a different bag style then let me know!

I tend to buy a lot of "deadstock" fabrics as I get to use a high quality product but keep my costs down at the same time. I also love to repurpose fabric into bags. Especially given the amount of textiles that end up in landfill every year. If you have some old clothes or items you would like to be made into a bag or a quilt, I would love to do that for you!

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