Design Process
I often get asked, ‘What is your design process?”
To be honest I HAVE NO CLUE! So I am going to talk through this to see if my thoughts turn into a process.
When an idea comes to mind I typically jot down a rough sketch in my random notebook of things that never get done. I mean a rough sketch. See below for the initial drawing of the Ruth Top Handle (the actual top handle developed into something more structured later on).
Original Ruth Top Handle pencil sketch
Then usually…brace yourself for this… I have a really vivid dream of myself actually making said bag. Don’t get me wrong this does not happen overnight. It is an organic process that happens when it happens. To be honest I drew this sketch in 2010. I didn't make this bag until 2017!
Once I have that dream, I take the 3D dream or vision, turn it into a 2D flat pattern, to make it into a physical 3D sample. I usually make 3-5 samples of a new style in a few different materials. Initial sample is in bonded leather or heavy cotton canvas. I do this to check my flat pattern. Then I make a leather sample. I usually use scraps or something I have surplus. I make a variety of samples of different leather thicknesses or if I decide to add a hair or fur to the design. Leather is a natural material and no two are the same. Sometimes there are pattern adjustments or sometimes I just mess up!
Many times, I change my mind about a design and go through the development process and just decide not to continue on with it. This decision could be based on many factors. For example, I designed a giant structured tote and a mini version. I sold the large ones at a massively discounted rate since I went through the process to develop them but decided not to pursue. They were very heavy (leather lined and lots of hardware) and the cost for dustbags and the black storage boxes was insane. It would have put the bag well over $2000 and it did not seem worth it to me. As for the mini, the production batch was terrible (this is now why I product I house!) and so I have yet to decide if I will try it again. Once I sell the samples, I will decide.
Anyhoo.. the Ruth Top Handle was the ideal design process. Everything happened organically and developed how it felt good. It has changed and developed over the last few years and I really love the newest version! The top handle was completely detachable and now its the staple and an intricate part of the bag. The body is a little more supple but still structured and it has an additional front pocket! Plus it holds more than before!
Original version
Current version
So I am not even sure if this answers the question but it is a little bit of insight to how I work as a maker and creator! I have probably 300 design ideas in a day. I only hop on the ones that make sense to me or resonate with me on a personal level. Usually when I am traveling, my surroundings inspire me. Sometimes I find inspiration in color and texture just walking down the street. It really varies!
Please share your thoughts and questions in the comments! I love hearing what you guys think!
Cheers, Erin
