Hi from NC!

Hi all! Been ghosting around the forums and the videos on YouTube, and have really liked what I've seen so far. So happy to join you all!

It's not an introduction without saying a little about myself, I suppose. I've been doing leatherwork off and on for about 7 years, but it's basically a hobby. I was a competitive cosplayer and picked up leatherworking as another skill in my cosplay arsenal, but really fell in love with being able to complete a full project in weeks rather than in months. I've since "retired" from cosplay and leathercraft has been more of my focus these days. I'd love for it to become a small side-hustle but I'm not ready to give up my job. "Away" from my workshop (which literally shares the same room as my home office) I'm a full-time marketing automation professional for a software company and really love what I do. I'm also a gamer, geek, and gym rat (well...need to get back) so I'm always busy doing something.

My focus these days has been on handbags, and have been doing my best to improve my skill to where I feel they're good enough to sell. I totally suffer from imposter syndrome, and every minor flaw stands out to me. I'm trying to get better about it and let go of the notion that it has to be "perfect"! (Easier said than done!) Annnnnd my husband is not so convinced I really NEED all the bags I make, so I suppose I could stand to sell a few. 😅 I've sold a couple of wallets, but really need to make some bags that I'm willing to let go of and update my website again.

I really want to learn more about designing bag patterns, and using different lining materials for them. And since my workshop/work office/gaming and streaming rig are all in the same room, I'd love to figure out ways to make more efficient use of my space...especially since I'm dreaming of getting an electric skiving machine in the nearish future but have nowhere to put it right now.

Since it seems to be the thing to do, here are a few items I've made:

A pink tote...fairly modest, but I love the interior and am working on a bigger version now.

I made this before my wedding. The lining fabric is a honeycomb design. I was pretty proud when someone asked me if it was a Kate Spade.

First time I designed a satchel completely from scratch:

I love exotic leathers (although I usually just use embossed "exotics" since I want to feel more confident first) and bright colors. I have a love for "statement bags."

My first bag that I think I finished in 2018...when I focused on tooling and had no idea what I was doing as far as stitching. The edges are a total mess! (The hardware is all antique nickel, but my phone camera decided to go crazy with the colors.)

Finally, I made this little purse charm after we said goodbye to my beloved puggle, Zoe. It looks a lot like her, and has a bit of her fur inside.

(Zoe tax)

That's all for now! Again, happy to be here and looking forward to learning more about everyone and everything!