ChrisW Designs

My journey in this creative realm began over a decade ago, and since 2010, I have been sharing my designs with the world through online platforms, offering accessible PDF patterns to fellow enthusiasts.

The inception of my venture into pattern design can be traced back to a challenging experience with someone else’s bag pattern. The poorly presented and written instructions almost deterred me from completing the project. Fueled by a determination to enhance the pattern-making experience for others, I immersed myself in learning the intricacies of bag making and design.

What sets my designs apart is not just the end product—a professionally finished, functional, and aesthetically pleasing bag—but the entire process leading up to it. I find myself utterly addicted to every aspect of designing handbags and wallets, and equally dedicated to managing the various facets of running a creative business.

Wearing numerous hats is second nature to me. In addition to being a bag pattern designer, I navigate roles such as photographer, videographer, set designer, lighting coordinator, webmaster, office manager, bookkeeper, blogger, and handle marketing and social media management. It’s a juggling act, and the constant challenge keeps me inspired and engaged.

Beyond the bustling world of design and entrepreneurship, my personal life is a vibrant tapestry. I reside in Australia with my husband, surrounded by the delightful chaos of 4 dogs, 2 cats, and a duck. Family is at the heart of my existence, as a proud mother of two adult daughters and a doting grandmother to two energetic grandsons.

Life outside my creative haven is equally fulfilling. When work takes a back seat, I cherish precious moments playing with my grandkids. A unique hobby of mine is painting furniture, a therapeutic outlet that adds an extra layer of creativity to my life. You might also find me pottering in the garden, finding solace in nature and nurturing a space that complements my artistic endeavors.

As I navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and the joys of family life, time becomes both an ally and a foe. There is a perpetual desire for more hours in the day, a sentiment many can relate to. I’ve even toyed with the idea of sacrificing sleep in pursuit of more productivity—though, unfortunately, that experiment didn’t yield the desired results!

In essence, my journey is a testament to the fusion of passion, dedication, and creativity. Through my sewing patterns, I aim not only to provide enjoyable projects but to empower individuals to create bags that are not just accessories but expressions of personal style and craftsmanship. Join me in this creative adventure, where each pattern tells a story, and every stitch is a brushstroke on the canvas of your unique bag-making journey.

Christine