I am in my first year of making bags from recycled clothing and bedding. It started out as a hobby. Since I couldn't find a job, I needed something to do with my time, but I couldn't spend much money for supplies. I've always been an avid thrift store shopper, so I got the idea of converting sheets, pillowcases, and so on into bag material.
My need for thrift comes from my German heritage. My mother taught me through example how to live within my means. Almost everyone on my mother's side of the family (with the exception of my mother) became professional tailors or seamstresses. Obviously I inherited that trait. As long as I can remember, I have wanted to sew.
I like to create projects which can be done within a few days. And I hardly ever keep anything I make. Whenever a family member or a friend has a birthday or other special occasion, I gift the person with one of my bags. It's nice to hear, "Wow! You made this? This is beautiful!"
Eighteen months ago my granddaughter graduated from high school. She wanted to go straight to college, and planned to find a part time job. Her area was also hit hard by the economy, and jobs were not to be found. Unfortunately her mom (my daughter) temporarily lost her job at the same time.
As much as I wanted to help my family, I was at a loss as to what to do about it. As I often do, I turned to God with my dilemma.
I attend church with a woman who heads a non-profit thrift store organization (where I buy most of my bag supplies). One aspect of this organization is a retail store which specializes in selling items made from recycled stuff. Last fall she approached me with the idea of selling my bags on consignment at her store. After thinking about the pros and cons, I figured I had nothing to lose and considered it as God nudging me to do this.
It has been six months since I began selling my bags. My little business is starting to generate a very modest income, but at least enough to help my granddaughter buy her college books.
God is blessing me with much more than money for my granddaughter's college books. My venture has brought our family closer together. My daughter cuts out the bag patterns; my granddaughter, who likes to doodle, draws funny potato figures on our microwave potato bags; and my son-in-law and husband help to take apart thrift store bags for parts. We are united for a common cause.
