Hello Friend,
Ever notice how much richer life is when you know the background story? Those with the story telling gift, or honed skill, can truly reveal the power and beauty of "the making of" whatever the subject may be. I truly love asking good questions and getting to hear such stories but right now, I'm going to practice the sharing.
Every pattern in my collection holds a story waiting to be told. Today, I want to share with you the heartwarming journey of the Little Jul Clutch, a testament to the enduring attraction of a one-of-a-kind little bag.
When my youngest was 3, I reached a season that allowed a little time for the artist in me to reawaken. I did lots of creative things including crafting, painting furniture and sewing again. One Saturday's random yard sale find of some $5 leather was the catalyst of learning to make leather handbags which I always admired but wouldn't spend $$ on.
I started with a simple clutch shape and learned how that zipper gets installed. Then my mind became super interested in figuring out how patterns came together as I saw handbags in the grocery store line or hanging on a woman's chair in a restaurant. Next, I found another source of inexpensive scrap leather and the interest snowballed into selling the first little clutches to friends, buying my first 1940's Singer industrial sewing machine and getting a business license!
Over the last 6 years I've made 100's of the Little Jul Clutch, proving this pattern is a best seller and customer favorite and each and every one has been unique! Why? Because I am motivated by the creative process and by helping another woman find a little joy in her purse being just the way she would want it! Sometimes the leather color is a favorite or the lining has a particularly appealing print. Other bags have meaningful text like a verse or quote or beautiful painted flowers or are a gift from one person to a mother, wife, or friend. The possibilities of making each one unique are limitless!
Not only are the clutches beautiful, they represent the use of enduring materials, sustainability and craftsmanship. Leather, tanned and used since ancient times has proved it's value, durability and longevity and here at Little Jul, stewarding God's creation well is a vital business pillar. The Clutch uses a relatively small amount of leather and I often design using small pieces, preventing excess waste. Lining fabrics are usually sample size pieces saved from landfills and each is handmade here in my home studio. In addition, the clutch is guaranteed for any needed repair or maintenance! The finished best-selling product is a true representative of quality instead of throwaway materials, individual craftsmanship instead of mass machine production and the beauty of bespoke leather goods!
Now may be the perfect opportunity to bring a piece of this story into your home. There are several ready to ship clutches in stock now and ordering a custom clutch is easier than you may think! An order starts a conversation with me for your details or feel free to email first and ask your questions of what's available! Explore the collection and find your story www.littlejul.com.