Meet Sandra, the creative soul behind SanjBDesigns. While in class learning to sew clothing, Sandra quickly realized that her passion lay in sewing bags. She transformed her newfound skill into a beautiful journey of self-expression, and SanjBDesigns was born. Now, as a dedicated mother and grandmother, Sandra infuses each piece with warmth and functionality, creating unique treasures that empower anyone to carry their stories in style. Through a series of questions, we got to know Sandra and a bit more about her business.
Briefly Tell us about yourself:
I was born and raised in California and am a mother and grandmother to some pretty amazing humans.
What do you make?
I design and create handbags and accessories. In an effort to learn how to sew clothes, I enrolled in an online sewing class in 2018. The third class was sewing a simple tote. That did it for me. I lost my desire to create clothes, ended my enrollment in the class, and tried my hand at designing and crafting my own handbags, which I gave to family and friends. With tons of encouragement, SanjBDesigns was formed.
Is there a story behind your shop name?
Yes! SanjBDesigns comes from a combination of my nickname, Sanj, which my sister gave me when we were young (she still uses it to this day), and the initial of my middle name, Barbara. I’ve also used family nicknames for some of my bags.
Is this your full-time business?
My full-time job is as a project manager at a manufacturing facility. I occasionally work on SanjBDesigns in the evenings during the week. The weekends are when I can focus and devote more time to my craft.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from so many things: a shape, a person, or a fabric, but inspiration mostly hits me when I’m trying to fall asleep. That’s when I might think of a new style to create, figure out a sewing problem I’ve encountered, or which new detail I could add to a bag.
Where do you create?
I have a small room that started out as a den. Over the last few years, I’ve taken over half of it. Luckily, my partner is understanding and encourages me all the way.
I have a small table where my Janome sewing machine sits. The workbench next to it has a magnifying lamp and all my tools. This is where I cut, iron, punch, hand sew, take photos, etc.
What does your day as a maker look like?
Once weekend errands are finished, I’ll get to work on whichever project I am currently on. If I know a template has worked well for me, I might create two or more simultaneously while using different fabrics.
If a project is complete, I’ll spend my time taking listing photos. I try to imagine what I would want to see in a photo as if I were the buyer. This is something that I really enjoy. Getting the right shot is such a rush!
Explain your creative process:
Once I have an idea in my head, I will draw it on paper and make any necessary adjustments. I’ll cut out my templates on paper, mark and date them, and then get to cutting and sewing. I take tons of in-process pictures along the way so that I can create work instructions later on.
Sometimes, the final shape may not be exactly what I had in mind, but I’ve had many happy surprises turn out that way. Finally, once I’m content with the piece and am sure I’ll create more, I’ll transfer my paper templates to mylar sheets.
What is your favorite product to make?
My favorite products to make are handbags. The accessories are fun, but the handbags win for favorite products hands down. My favorite material was canvas when I first started, but it has since become faux leather. I’m awed by those who can work with real leather and what they create. My goal is to be able to create at that high level that I admire so much while using faux leather instead.
What is your most popular product?
This is a hard question to answer since my bags are constantly changing. I would have to say that in general, my larger slouchy shoulder bags have been the most popular.
Why did you choose to sell on goimagine?
While selling on Etsy, I needed to find a 2nd venue. There are millions of handbags on Etsy, with some selling from countries at prices I can’t compete with.
I stumbled across goimagine via Instagram and was immediately drawn in. The fact that only handmade makers were accepted was a huge plus; makers’ opinions seemed to really be taken into consideration, and the fact that proceeds went to children in need was the clincher.
Is there anything else that makes you or your shop unique?
I design and create all of my products myself. When it comes to my handbags, I will only create one of a kind. I do duplicate styles, but you will never find another bag with the same style and combination of materials from me. I’ve been asked for repeat items but can’t bring myself to do it! There’s something nice about knowing that no one will ever be walking around with the same handbag as you. It also makes it much more fun for me when I’m not creating the same item repeatedly.
Where can we find SanjBDesigns?
Shop: goimagine.com/SanjBDesigns
Facebook: SanjBDesigns
Instagram: SanjBDesigns
Stephanie is naturally creative and is passionate about art, design, and everything handmade. She has always enjoyed exploring new techniques and trends in the handmade industry and has channeled this into her role as the Creative Director and co-founder of goimagine. Through her love for creating, she has successfully sold her unique wares, which range from fine art to simple crafts, in both online and in-person markets.