Write an article based on this "Work on your sewing and leatherworking skills. Get a degree in fashion to make this your career. Research fashion trends for inspiration. Decide what sets your bags apart."
While you're starting out, make your own bags, even if this means you need to learn how to sew. Not only will this save you money, but it'll also help you understand all the ins and outs of the creation process. This knowledge will be crucial as you start to pick manufacturers and sources for your materials. Staying involved in the production process lets you be in control. What better way to make bags the way you want them to be made than to do it yourself? Keep expanding your skill set as you continue designing. If you're designing cloth bags, you may want to learn how to weave. You'll also almost certainly need to know how to sew zippers into your bags. If this is going to be your main money-making job, attend a two- or four-year fashion design program at an accredited school. When you begin pitching your ideas to stores and manufacturers, this could make the difference between a "yes" and a "no" for your designs. These programs will teach you basic design, production, and art techniques. Some schools may also have courses in business and marketing that could be useful for you. While you're in the learning phase, you can also apply for internships with big-name handbag designers or other companies in the fashion industry. A fashion degree doesn't guarantee success, and it's not necessary if it's out of your budget. It's even more important to be passionate about your creative and unique designs! As you set out on your design journey, it's important to know what's out there and what people like. Become an obsessive follower of fashion magazines and shows. Take note of popular colors, shapes, sizes, and styles to think about where your own bags would fit in the handbag world. Ask your friends and family what they look for in a bag. See if they use multiple bags for different occasions. While you should have a good idea of what's already popular, you want your stuff to be surprising. Think about what features you would most want in a handbag, and start from there. You'll be most comfortable designing what makes you happy. Maybe the whole reason you got into handbag design was because you couldn't find the exact bag you wanted. If you're struggling to find that perfect purse, you can bet other people are too.