Leather Messenger Bags and Clutches

After years of making leather journals I decided to start making leather messenger bags as well. A few years

ago I took a piece of leather that was far too shiny for my taste and cut the pattern pieces, and using the backside or sueded finish on the outside, created my very first messenger bag. The bag measured 9" W by 13" H. The flap is cut on the jagged edge of the hide if I can and I use an antler button for the closure. The shoulder strap is about 48" in length and long enough to sling across the body.

Once people started to see the rather rough-looking bag the orders started coming in. In fact my sister Kathy was my first customer. I did make one more bag ahead of hers to "iron" out the details.

With this pattern I can create a bag that is longer than wider, or wider that longer using the same pattern. Those familiar with the bags hear me refer to them as vertical or horizontal.

I like to cut the flaps for the bags on the jagged edge of the hide if I can and use antler buttons for the closures. I have upon request used vintage buttons for the closures.

I wish that I would have kept track of how many of these bags I have made. The orders keep coming in and I have made several that are larger than th 9" x 13" and at times, smaller.

Photographed here is my own black messenger bag (horizontal) with an exterior pocket ,and of course antler buttons.

Another style that has been popular is the clutch. The clutch in the photograph I made for myself the night before my brothers wedding. It matched my outfit perfectly. Here I used a vintage button for the closure.

I hope to return to the drawing table this winter a create some new styles for 2010. After all we have to constantly keep reinventing ourselves.

Total Rusticity

I believe my interest in leather began back in the early 70's when I worked for a leather store on First and Hennepin in downtown Minneapolis. I made some little leather pouches, one of which I still have.
I loved the smell and feel of the leather and still do today.
A happy day for me is when my leather order arrives and I can lay the piece(s) out and plan my strategy for what I will make. I like hides with brand marks and often incorporated them into a particular piece.
I spent several years mostly making leather journals but along with those I am now also making checkbook covers, clutches, phone pouches, coin purses and of course the messenger bag which has grown in popularity.
My look is rustic.
And Tess, I do have one item in my line that has a name attached. That would be the Courtney Clutch. Inspired by a friend Courtney, of course that wanted a larger pouch than than the card/coin pouch. The Courtney has turned out to be a popular item! Thanks Courtney!