We Design Handbags

While she may just be a baby in the business, handbag designer Jenna Lou Dauer is already up and running toward a promising future in the industry. Just six months into owning her own business and Dauer has already been commissioned to make more than 50 handbags and nearly twice that much in accessories such as wallets and oven mitts.

Dauer, who has been sewing since she was a little girl, became interested in making handbags when she became dissatisfied with the bags for sale in department stores. “The ones you get from large retailers are so bland and never feel personal,” explained Dauer. “I learned to sew my first bag simply from following a pattern that I bought. This helped me understand the basic fundamentals of bag construction. Then I branched out from there and started making my own patterns.”

“The physical shapes of my handbags are not necessarily ‘cutting edge,’ but I do love to use fabulous new and vintage fabrics which are what sets my bags apart from the rest. I have received many comments on my choices of fabrics as they are often very eccentric and bright. I guess it’s like an extension of myself.”

“My greatest strength is my creative drive,” said Dauer. “I have always been driven to make things. When I’m bored I try to create something new and am always trying new techniques. I also am very determined to create a product that is functional as well as artistic.”

In addition to crafting unique bags, Dauer also has a unique market for her creations. “I began selling my bags on etsy.com. It’s somewhat like eBay, but for handmade goods only. It was very easy to get started but very costly,” said Dauer. “In the beginning you have to invest a lot on supplies and it takes a while to gain that back.”

Breaking into the business also takes a lot of trial and error. “On one of my first bags I used ink to mark important spots on the interfacing. The fabric I used was light and thin and I never noticed that it showed through because I was sewing at my mom’s house in poor lighting. After that, I learned to use the proper tools and always be in good lighting.”

And speaking of using proper tools, Dauer is very excited to start crafting her original designs on her new Bernina sewing machine. After months of sewing on her mom’s dated Kenmore, the new machinery is a welcome change.

What is Dauer’s advice for those wanting to break into the business? “Don’t give up. Your first bag may take you several hours and the product may not be what you expected, but try again and again. Your skills will improve and you will eventually succeed.”

You can browse Dauer’s creations at www.jennalou06.etsy.com.