Saffrons Blog

This year I really wanted to collaborate with various talents around the world. One such venture is with Selkie Smith Design who makes wonderful fabrics bags. Mel designed a range of bags for us using my new fabrics the Forest Elementals. I asked Selkie Smith a few questions about herself.

1. What is your story?  Where do you come from?

I have worked in the Financial Markets Industry for the past 12 years, when they decided to move my department offshore, I jumped at the chance to take a redundancy.  I had enough of commuting to the city and wanted to be closer to home and spend more time with my daughter, Caitlin

2. How did you come to make bags?

This is a funny question, I can't remember when and why I decided to make bags...my husband Chris remembers me telling him quite matter of factly that I was going to do so. I wanted to do something creative, and I know I'm good with colour placement and pattern, so I bought a few patterns, got myself a sewing machine and started teaching myself.  It was about year ago now.

3. Future prospects?

To expand my range of bags to larger style bags, including Nappy Bags, Market Bags and Laptop Bags. As well as complimentary items such as makeup bags, travel mats, etc.

4. What inspires you?

Essentially Fabric inspires me.  The detail of the fabrics is amazing, so much work is involved, and when I make a bag, I am really just  showcasing the fabric in all its glory.  I know it sounds crazy but when I receive a bundle of fabric it's almost an emotional experience.  When I go though all my fabrics I can pretty much visualise straight away what it will end up being!

5. What was it like to work with Saffron Craig fabrics?

It was great working with Saffron Craig Fabrics. Saffron's fabrics are so beautiful and detailed, and I was really pleased with the way the elk landscape bags, (the porkiepie and the market bag) turned out. They are just fabulous scene scapes. I also adore the Birds in Leaves Hobo bag. I will start producing them commercially in September as well as the Market Bag. I also learned a few lessons on the way. Although I'm not heavily inspired by patchwork I can see the beauty of it in the Bird in Leaves Tote Bag, and I will incorporate some of these elements into my current range of bags.

5. The big picture, where do you see yourself in five years time?

In five years, I would love to have a bricks and mortar Store up here in the Blue Mountains, and be able to employ local mums in the area.  I would love to keep designing bags and accessories, which will appeal to a broad market. I believe there is a bag for everyone.

Good on you for following your dreams.

Here are the pictures I took of her wonderful bags. If you like anything Mel Smith is happy to custom make bags for you. Contact Selkie Smith design here.




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