Crafting Joy & Generosity - Carolyn Hart, Bespoke Bags Steveston
Carolyn Hart
The history and heart of her thriving handcrafted accessories business that benefits local charities
She has no shortage of custom orders and is often prepping stock for craft markets around town. AND almost all of her sewing projects benefit charities based in Richmond, British Columbia. Needless to say, Carolyn is a busy woman, but today this Steveston local takes a moment—to tell us about how Bespoke Bags Steveston got its start, and the challenges and rewards of pursuing this purposeful craft.
I love combining functional designs with eye-catching fabrics.
How did your sewing journey begin?
Carolyn: My very first sewing instructor was my mom. She sewed clothes for my sister and me. I began by sewing for my dolls and continued to learn in Home Economics classes in high school. Yesterday, my sister reminded me that the sewing machines in high school were manufactured by Pfaff. My first machine was a Pfaff and I am still very loyal to those machines. I sew all of my bags on a vintage Pfaff machine.
A view of my desk. I sew on a vintage Pfaff machine.
How has your sewing evolved?
Carolyn: In high school, the focus was on sewing garments and I can remember a very frustrating experience with pink, plaid, seersucker. Matching the plaids was very challenging at the time and is something I laugh about now. I don't think I sewed much while I was in university but once I was married and a homeowner, I switched to sewing home decor items like Roman Shades, table linens, curtains and cushion covers. I really enjoy adding splashes of colour and being able to change them up seasonally. When my sons were young, I sewed clothing for both of them including quite a few Halloween costumes—a dinosaur, a clown, a firefighter. Great memories and lots and lots of fun.
When we were first in 'lockdown' due to Covid-19, I wanted something to occupy my free time. I pulled out my sewing machine and made my first tote bag. I really have not stopped since then. Now, I have a fairly steady stream of custom orders and, in between those, I try to build up inventory for craft fairs. I also sew for some of the local charitable events including auctions hosted by Richmond Christmas Fund and Richmond Women's Resource Centre. Last year, I participated in the Steveston Christmas Craft Fair and I have already signed up for the 2023 event on November 25th.
This is a recent order. I was asked to make four toiletry bags.
What’s special about sewing, and why do you like doing the craft?
Carolyn: I absolutely love working with colours and textures to create something that is both functional and beautiful. Every project is different. Sometimes I have free rein to make all the decisions and other times I work with someone to make his or her vision a reality. No two days are alike and, usually, at the end of a day, I can reflect on what I have accomplished and feel happy. I have a rule to always tidy up my sewing room at the end of the day so it feels welcoming when I arrive the next time.
Accommodating the unique style preferences of my customers keeps things interesting.
How do you feel when working on your Bespoke projects?
Carolyn: This is going to sound very dramatic but the best part of my work is collaborating with someone to create a memorable gift. I share my client's excitement as he or she selects the "right" fabrics, hardware and design for the gift recipient. I am always thrilled to share their anticipation in gifting something handcrafted and one-of-a-kind. I can't wait to hear about the recipient's reaction. I already have orders for two Christmas gifts and I am looking forward to working on them in June or July.
As far as the work goes, the happy rewarding times far outweigh the frustrating times—that is for sure. It is not all pretty. I use my seam ripper more often than I care to admit.
Not too long ago, I was having a really difficult time and I seriously considered giving up on a project. I just could not get it "right." I sat at my desk and debated: quit or persevere? I decided to keep going and I learned so much in the process. That's something I really enjoy about my work—continuous learning and improvement. I think it is good for my brain health and my mental health.
My family and friends have been unfailingly supportive. They listen to me natter on and on about fabric and sewing. Some have given me fabric and sewing notions. Many have bought from me and referred others to me. They cheer me on and amplify my work. I could not have grown Bespoke Bags Steveston without their encouragement.
Donating is just wonderful. I have met some really special people as a result of my donations. Sometimes I donate finished items. I always donate part proceeds of my sales. I am absolutely thrilled to have been able to help out so many charities. I almost always choose Richmond-based organizations and the response from the community has been very gratifying.
These are zipper pouches I donated to the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre. Each one was unique.
These are zipper pouches I donated to the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre. Each one was unique.
Can you share one memorable story from your Bespoke experience?
Carolyn: Last year, I made several donations in aid of Ukraine, but the most memorable was a one-of-a-kind celebration of sunflowers, the national flower of Ukraine. I promised to donate 100% of the selling price to Canadian Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal. I used beautiful prints that I picked up at Dressew in Vancouver. They were from the Sunny Fields Collection by Cloth Works and were absolutely gorgeous. I modified a pattern and created a really eye-catching crossbody bag. I auctioned it on my Facebook page. Many of my followers shared the post and bid on the bag. It was just so lovely to see the enthusiasm for both the bag and the cause.
This is a photo of the crossbody bag I auctioned on my Facebook page. It sold for more than $100 and all of the purchase price was donated to the Canadian Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal.
Do you have any future plans for your business or your sewing practice?
Carolyn: I do my best to continuously learn new techniques and to refine my skills. I am a little bit constrained by my domestic sewing machine (because it has its limitations, for example, I am not able to sew leather) but I endeavour to attempt increasingly complex designs when I get a chance. Initially, I followed a pattern for everything I did. Now, I adjust patterns and design my own from time to time.
What are you up to when not working on Bespoke?
Carolyn: My husband is retired and we love to travel. I usually manage to check out fabric stores wherever we go. We have lived in South Richmond for nearly 40 years and I would not want to live anywhere else. I love the community, the fresh ocean air and the great walking routes. I am a Little Free Library custodian and I am hoping to inspire others to join this worldwide endeavour to expand access to books and build community.
This is a crossbody bag I made as a tribute to Ruth Bader Ginsburg. It is my own design and I have had many requests for it.