My name is Lesia Griffin and I am the owner of a handbag and accessories line called 144 Collection. I am currently going into my second year in business and the collection is currently available in a few local boutiques and online stores. I am looking to expand on that this year. I will also be adding two new bags (a purse and messenger bag) to our line this summer.

I use mostly cotton and canvas fabrics for my bags. I use them because I love the variety (retro, vintage & modern prints) they provide. I find that in using a various selection of cotton prints, I am able to reach a wider target audience of teens and women from 16-45. The prints along with my need to be creative keep me inspired to create new bags and accessory items. I also feel the prints are what make my bags so special. I always try to search out fabrics that are not like what you would see in big chain stores. Customers also have the option to customize their bag with any print or notion they would like.

The 144 Collection began as a hobby for me. I started taking sewing lessons as a way for me to relax and have fun. As I continued with my lessons, I found I really enjoyed making my own patterns. I created a few pieces and tested them out with family and friends. They really liked the pieces and encouraged me to pursue it further. In February 2006, I started 144 Collection. Every 144 Collection bag is unique and made with excellent quality and detail. We are always happy to customize bag to the specific details of the customer (including handle size, pockets, bias, piping etc.).

I would have to say my first attempt at designing the Valerie Hobo bag could be called a nightmare story. I had a picture in my head of how I was going to cut pattern. Unfortunately for me, my vision and the actual pattern that I cut did not look the same. After the bag was sewn, it looked like the letter W with a handle and it was way too wide. I think you could fit a baby in it. I had to go back and make some much needed corrections.

My greatest achievement had to be when I had my first sale. I was really down because I hadn’t sold anything. I was really scared that maybe starting a business was not a good idea. Then one summer day low and behold I sold my first bag. The feeling was overwhelming I think I even did a little celebration dance. After that, I had even more sales. I have to say I really love doing this because of the joy that it brings me and the happiness I get from the customers. They e-mail me to let me know how much they love their bag and that is definitely worth it.