I have loved sewing most of my adult life! I started sewing when I was a teenager on the cheapest machine I could find at a big box store. The day I upgraded to a new and more powerful machine was the first day I ever stepped into a sewing shop, and I felt a sense of belonging after years of "why do you want to sew?" and "that's such an old lady hobby".

Since then, I have upgraded a few more times, and added sergers and an embroidery machine to my collection. A few years ago I discovered my love of sewing handbags. As someone with more alternate tastes, it can be very difficult to find good quality *and* affordable accessories, and the limitless options to customize handbags was amazing.

I love using the hardware, I love sewing with vinyl, I love learning how pockets are added, and structure created. Even a plain black bag on the outside can have a fun surprise print hidden inside for the lining.

That brings me here. To leather, and to sewing leather.

This upgrade is extremely expensive for me, but I can't stop feeling that it's what I'm supposed to do. I have always wanted to work for myself. I have always wanted to be able to make my living doing something I love. I feel it in my bones, that when I can purchase an industrial sewing machine capable of sewing the bags I love in materials I trust to be durable, I will be able to do this.

Thankfully I have many years of supplies that I can use during the start of this journey. I have fabric, I have stabilizers, I have hardware, and I even have some leather. Since I have been working with leather in other ways, I feel I have good sources for cost effective quality leather until I can order larger quantities.

The machine itself, after researching my needs and allowing room for growth, is an industrial cylinder arm sewing machine, with a removable flat bed option. I will also need thread for this new machine, and other small odds and ends that I haven't needed with my current equipment.

My goal is $10,000. The first $6,000 would cover the machine and immediate start up supplies. The remaining $4,000 would be to cover unexpected expenses, online selling listings, in person event fees, and help with personal expenses while I reduce hours at my current day job.

If you have read this far, thank you! If you are able to donate, any amount is appreciated, and I look forward to updating you on my progress! If you can't donate, please still follow along, sharing future advertising posts is priceless to small businesses. And maybe you will see something that calls your name :)