the production process...

    I am constantly thinking about designs in my mind. When I like an idea I sketch it out in my workbook. When I am ready to make something new, or sometimes just for inspiration, I look through my book to find something that fits my mood and needs.

    I plan out my project on paper and by sewing up test designs to see how they look and function. If I am unsure of something, I consult my husband (an artist) or a close friend for their opinion. Often I will use a bag for a while before I begin manufacturing so I can work out any flaws in the preliminary design.

    When I’ve come up with something I like I choose a fabric that will be suitable and begin to cut out and assemble the pieces. Often the fabric plays a role in what I design. There have been several times when I have become inspired by a particular fabric and ended up designing a line of bags entirely around it, especially when recycling articles.

    With manufacturing I prefer to work with an assembly line strategy, as I find this method very calming and somewhat meditative (until I make a mistake). I cut out all the pieces for the bodies of the bags. I then take a sample of each colour and put together an accent panel for each bag. I assemble the rest of the bag the same way: all of the straps, pockets, linings, etc. I finish and reinforce any necessary seams and turn the bags right-side out. I do not own a serger so I have learned to hide all of my seams very well, or incorporate them into the design as accents.

    Once the sewing is done, I iron the bags into shape and give them a quick de-linting (we have 3 cats) before I show them off to my doting husband. Soon after, I price and inventory the bags, photograph them, and find them homes in my tiny workroom.

    Voila!

about...

the bags...

    Each bag is handmade and adorned using intensely coloured cottons, linens, silks, brocades and recycled fabrics whenever possible. Each design is unique; even duplicates of the same design will vary. Delicate fabrics and designs are sewn on to a backing for added stability. All bags are lined with a cotton or a cotton/polyester blend lining. All bags are designed and sewn by Nikki; pre-fabricated patterns are never used.

    I have been sewing and creating for as long as I can remember, but I began designing bags in 2000. My work is continually recognized for innovative use of shade and tone, owing to my extensive training as a hairstylist and colourist. I grew up in Calgary but now live and work in Regina.

    I am the founder and owner of Doppelganger Handiwork handcrafted handbags. I am independent and determined, but I am also eternally grateful for all of the help I receive from family and friends. I technically have no employees, but I would be lost without my many helpers.

They are amazing at providing honest feedback on pieces and other elements like my new display; they go shopping for me during their free time or while on vacation; they volunteer at shows with me, covering my meal breaks and bringing me yummy treats and necessary coffee. I am so fortunate to have such great and talented help. I present to them, whenever possible, free passes for friends to the events, a meal or two, whichever bag I’ve noticed them noticing, and lavish “thank yous” from an indebted hostess.

the designer...

    I love textiles. I love the colours, the textures, the elaborate patterns on some, and the raw simplicity of others. I love to combine them and play them off of each other. I feel like I am painting with fabric.

I love colour. I love the drama that a tiny contrasting accent can add to a piece, or the captive beauty of using a tone-on-tone effect. These are my main inspirations, but they are perpetually fuelled by an eternal need to create.

I chose handbags because I adore that they can be functional as well as charming. I am addicted to the look that a customer gets in their eyes when they spot a bag that they desire; they are enchanted. I consider myself fortunate that I am able to delight people with something that I made, and that I love to do. A good friend of mine calls them “little art pieces.” I agree.

    I have some amazing ideas for some stunning purses that would lean more towards art than function. These will begin surfacing within the next year. I have been collaborating with my sister as well, who is a textile artist (weaving on book bags).