After sewing bags for 5+ years, I’ve come to the conclusion that I have a problem.  Some people might refer to it as ADD and others might just blame it on the fact that I’m a Gemini.  No matter how you diagnose it I can no longer hide from it.  After reading through my blog recently,  I noticed that many different bag styles have been announced over the years with only a select few being available for more than a couple of months.  Occasionally, it’s been lack of demand, but in most cases I don’t even give a bag the opportunity to really be noticed before being pulled from my store.  Why?  Good question.  My conclusion (after much deep thought ) is that once an idea moves out of my head and into an actual bag I’m done.  The creative process has been completed and  I’m now ready to move onto the next bag and/or idea.  So, apparently, I’m great at the idea part and not so much at the mass production end of things.

Having accepted this as a reality about myself, I’m determined to do a few things differently this year.  First, I won’t be “announcing” bags as new to the line as quickly as I have in the past.  Bags in various styles will be made available in the Martilena shop and after a significant amount of time they’ll either be officially added or just fade away.  Second, if bags are added to the line and offered as custom I will be bringing in additional help so that my inability to mass produce won’t interfere with production.  This is a big step for me because I am a control freak when it comes to my bags and my poor sister (part-time help) can testify to that statement.  Usually I’m all about delegating, but not when it comes to sewing.  And, lastly, I’ll be experimenting with different fabrics and canvas materials in construction of the bags.  For example, some bags may be constructed from waterproof materials and others may not.

I know this may seem like an odd way to operate, but I want to be sure my bags are the best I can offer without sacrificing my sanity (haha).  There are a crazy number of high quality, mass produced bags out there so I know those of you feel more comfortable going in that direction will have no problem finding something to suit your needs.

On to the first bag and insert combo available this year…

Large messenger bag with a brown and green checkered leather flap (lined in olive green waxed canvas).  Body is also olive green waxed canvas, lined in a dark brown canvas.

It measures 6″ D x 12″ W (side to side) x 11″ H.  A custom insert will be included with the measurements 6″D x 12″ W x 9″ H.  Bag strap is also constructed from waxed canvas, but still completely adjustable.

Snap closure under the front flap with two heavy duty snaps.  More photos available in the Martilena shop listing.