Is Handbags with J. Christine for beginners? 

Yes! HBWJC has classes geared to those who have never sewn or worked with leather before and also for those who want to grow onto of the skills they do have. 

 

Will I always have access to the online course? 

Yes! Once you pay for an online course, you have access forever! 

 

Can I sell the bag I made? 

Patterns, bags, and courses offered by Handbags with J. Christine for strictly for learning purposes only. They are not intended to be sold for profit. 

 

What machine should I use for bag making and leather crafting? 

The best machine is any type of industrial sewing machine, that is intended to handle thicker materials. A heavy duty home machine is also great for upholstery/canvas/denim fabrics along with certain light weight leather. Please check out our YouTube video! HERE 

 

What materials do I absolutely need  for bag making and leather crafting? 

Please check out our forum Name as well as our YouTube video for all the material must haves! 

 

Do you sell already made handbags?

Yes, but not like your fast fashion brands. Most handbags are one and done, which is great for those who want a bag that no one will ever have! 

 

I need help with making my bag. How do I get it? 

The courses offered at Handbags with J. Christine are designed to guide you through each step. We get it though, sometimes you may need a bit of extra help. HBWJC offers 3 options. You may reach out via email or through social media, for quick questions. Check out our group forum for questions/answers others may already have had. Schedule a 1 on 1 session for in depth assistance. 

 

What kind of leather should I buy? 

If you are using a heavy duty home machine, it is best to use leather that is no more than 3 oz (altogether) or approximately 1.5 oz (when you have multiple layers). Goatskin, Lambskin, Gaucho Oil Veg Tanned, Saffiano calfskin, and Caviar calfskin are great options for heavy duty home machines. 

 

If you have an industrial machine or plan to hand stitch, you can experiment with heavier weights, textures, and leather types.

 

What other fabrics can I use for bag making? 

Canvas, upholstery, outdoor, and denim fabrics are great options for bag making. They are perfect to combine with leather and make your bag POP! 

 

Where can I buy my tools, leather and fabric? 

Leather crafting suppliers: Rocky Mountain Leather Supply, Tandy Leather, Made on Jupiter, The Buckle Guy.

 

Fabric and other materials: Joann Fabrics, Mood Fabrics, or any local fabric store.

 

I want to hand stitch my bag, but don’t know how. Can you teach me? 

Hand stitching leather is a great skill to learn! Please see our YouTube video HERE or schedule a 1 on 1 session.