So let's catch up!
I've had loads of fun making new things during my internship, including a beret which sold almost straight away (go me) and starting a leather/wool handbag. I said in an instagram post I'd discuss my feelings towards leather so here goes. I wanted to work with leather so that I'd had the experience, plus Chrissie was already going to use it whether it was me, her or Leah who made something from it so what better time to give it a go? It's a very thick leather and was difficult to work with, but the quality of the fabric was good which made it nice to work with too. However, I still wouldn't use leather for my own projects because I can't bring myself to use the skin of an animal. If I'm being honest, it was very hard for me to decide to use it in Hebden, but as I said before the leather had already been bought and now I have experience when it comes to me using faux leather and thicker fabrics.
On the other hand, there is always the argument that leather is a natural, biodegradable material which in some people's opinions makes it better to use than synthetics. Personally I prefer searching for alternatives, such as the new leather-like fabric I've read about made from pineapple leaves which I think is a fantastic idea. It's biodegradable, made from waste materials so won't use up any more resources in terms of growing, will bring new incomes to farmers AND offers an alternative to animal leather.
I'm not one to miss an opportunity to learn new things, so I used the leather, but I don't think I will again. I'm currently in the middle of making a new bag for myself at home from some very nice faux leather that wasn't expensive, so if people are looking for affordable alternatives I can tell you they are out there.
When I finish the bag for Hat Therapy I'll post pictures because aside from ethical concerns, it is very nice (if I do say so myself).
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