How to Design Bags

Design bags that will appeal to your customers.

Designer accessories can serve as a unique fashion statement for a woman because of the style and charm that comes with the item. One of the accessories most in demand is a woman's bag or purse. If you have the creativity and the expertise to design bags, you could start a lucrative career. As you learn how to design bags, consider these basics to appeal to your target market.

Instructions

1. Determine the size you want your bag to be. Women's bags can range in size from a small clutch to a large tote bag. If you want to design an entire line of bags and purses, make bags available in various sizes to meet the unique needs of the women who will soon be your customers.

2. Discover your style and target customers. Designing bags isn't as easy as simply picking out the right color for the bag. As a designer, you want to stand out from your competition and the way you do that is with your style. Decide if you design bags for young, trendy starlets, for moms toting around items for themselves and their kids, or for professionals in the workplace. If you can blend one of more styles, you'll widen your customer base.

3. Consider the functionality of the bags you design. Anyone can sew two pieces of fabric together and call it a bag. However, when you design bags, you want to think about what the woman really needs. Consider storage for things like pens, paper, cell phones, gum, keys and billfolds when you design bags.

4. Pick durable fabrics. The style of your bag sets you apart from your competitors, but you also need a bag known for its quality. Women are hard on their bags because they take them everywhere. Choose fabrics that are both easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear.

5. Experiment with handles. Traditional leather straps on a bag serve their purpose, but they're not the only option. If you want to design bags with straps, consider handles made from bamboo, chains or other materials.

6. Add embellishments for an original look. Pieces like antique buttons, beading and buckles can drastically change the look of the bags you design.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens
• Exploring Womanhood