Well, it's been a wild 3 years in business, and I've learned a lot. How to manage a Shopify website, setting up in-person markets, trying to fit everything into my car, paying sales tax, liability insurance, schedule Cs, end of year inventory counts and supply ordering.
Through all the challenges, the constant theme is that I love to sew! I do my best to get through all the paperwork and fabric cutting so I can return to my sewing machine and create the magic for you, my customers. My favorite memories of this last year include seeing previous customers at a fair carrying one of my bags, and someone approaching my booth saying that they attended the event only because they heard I would be there. Warms my heart!
I plan to continue making great bags in 2024, adding more wallets, drawstring bags, more waxed canvas and hopefully more products for guys. As ever, my preference is for the natural fibers, wool, cotton, linen and leather. However some of the vinyl out now is so gorgeous and hard to resist. There is a debate as to whether leather or vinyl is more sustainable. My feeling is that leather is the more natural, sustainable product, but vinyl can be more affordable and I try to find those that will last years in the bag that you carry.
Since starting Crafty Juniper I have joined the Snohomish County Clothing and Textile Advisors, a charitable group of women who love to sew. We make items to donate to non-profits, such as homeless and youth shelters, senior centers and Days for Girls. Every year we hold classes to teach adults and youth basic sewing skills and host a yearly fabric sale, this year in August. Since they get so much fabric donated, the decision was made to no longer include upholstery fabric in the sale. So guess who benefits from this donated upholstery and home decor fabric. Yours truly!
I also frequent thrift shops and garage sales for treasures to transform into cool cross-bodies, backpacks and pouches.
So, please comment on your favorite style and material of bag, so I can make sure to stock it!
Happy shopping!
Lynda