BAGS OF STYLE We talk with Samantha Hussey, who’s mad about bag design!
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHY YOU DECIDED TO SHARE YOUR BAG MAKING WITH OTHERS? I’m an independent bag sewing patterns designer, based in south Wales. I started my business in 2011, but it wasn't until 2014 that I began building my brand. I’m dyslexic and I found that I have a rather fun superpower that lets me picture 3D shapes as their 2D components – which is ideal for designing bag patterns! I feel lucky to be able to share my passion with other bagineers (people who love making bags!). DO YOU DESIGN ALL MRS H BAG PATTERNS? Yes I do and I love designing sewing patterns that help bag makers to develop new skills and use beautiful hardware! I love seeing my patterns I've designed coming to life, and it’s great to see bag makers earning a living from selling the bags that they've made using my patterns.
WHERE DOES YOUR INSPIRATION FOR NEW BAG DESIGNS COME FROM? With every bag pattern I design, I try to teach a technique or concept, or show bagineers how to use an element of beautiful hardware. The Jangles Anchor Bag uses gorgeous strap anchors from Emmaline Bags and teaches how to create an internal divider pocket. The Ring Sling uses clever construction to reduce the amount of stabiliser you need. And my newest sewing pattern, The Bucket Tote, teaches how to add an oval base to your bag and gives practice sewing around curves. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PATTERN THAT YOU’VE DESIGNED SO FAR AND WHY? Oh, that's a tough one! I usually find myself loving whatever pattern I’m currently working on. My customers' favourites are The Companion Carpet Bag, The Dainty Daytripper, and The Squiffy Sling. It helps to see so many gorgeous versions being made in the sewing groups on Facebook and it just makes me fall in love with my patterns even more!
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