Create a leather bag from scratch.
Create for fun with my patterns or learn design & technique and start your small business. No previous experience needed, we learn everything from scratch.
Hey there, Creative Soul!
If you've ever dreamt of bringing your vision for beautiful, high-end bags to life without spending countless hours on the learning curve, you've landed in the perfect spot.
With over a decade of experience crafting bags since 2008, I've poured over 10,000 hours into mastering techniques and streamlining processes, so you can save time and sidestep frustration. Here, everything you need is at your fingertips: step-by-step making techniques, trusted suppliers, and the ability to create patterns from scratch based on your unique designs.
What I have for you:
1. PDF bag patterns
PDF patterns are perfect if you're interested in creating a specific bag model for yourself or as a present for your friends and family. Sew-along video tutorials will ensure that your bag turns out great.
These tutorials are pre-recorded lessons with unlimited access, and you can watch from any device and create at your own pace. Additionally, you can sell small batches of bags made using these patterns, with credit given to @khelmanbags for the designs.
Important notice: Although the patterns are very beginner-friendly, I recommend having some initial sewing experience. If you don't have any you might want to consider taking a look at one of my Practice classes to learn how to cut or stitch leather first to get a better result.
2. Bag Creator course to learn from scratch and create your own designs
This course is perfect for learning pattern-making techniques and gaining a clear understanding of how to bring your designs to life.
We'll create bag projects together from scratch, and each project will demonstrate how to implement new techniques.
The course is structured to facilitate gradual growth: we begin with easier projects, and each subsequent project becomes slightly more complex than the previous one.
By the end of the course, you will realize how much you've progressed into a professional without feeling overwhelmed. I'll be here with you every step of the way to address any questions or struggles you may encounter.
The course is divided into 3 levels, allowing you to choose based on your goals. Each subsequent level builds upon the materials covered in the previous one and introduces new lessons on patterning your designs and additional crafting projects.
These classes are pre-recorded video lessons with unlimited access, you can watch them from any device and learn at your own pace, it'll resume where you left off.
Also, I'll add new materials once in a while, and you will always have access to the latest updated version. (Most likely, the cost will increase a bit too, but not for you ;)
3. Separate Classes to master you technique
If you're already a crafter and just need a few tips and tricks to make some moments smoother and faster, and optimize your process, check out the separate classes like Pockets, Straps, or Top Closures.
The classes also work well if you want to transition from fabric to leather and need to know what adjustments to make in your technique for specific models. These classes are pre-recorded video lessons with unlimited access, and you can watch them from any device at your own pace.
For holders of PDF-patterns: Practice classes for learning clean cutting, setting up a sewing machine, and achieving even stitching are also available here.
What my students say
A bit about me
Ksenia Khelman
I run the show :D
hello@khelman.com
Hi there, my name is Ksenia Khelman, and I'm a handbag designer and maker. I'm self-taught and crafted my first bag in 2008 by accident: my favorite bag fell apart, and since it wasn't available on the market anymore, I decided to remake it myself. For a few years, it was a hobby and a side hustle, as I balanced it with my regular job. However, in 2017, I made the decision to pursue crafting full-time. I quit my job and embarked on my journey as a full-time artist. Since then, I've been making a living by creating custom handmade leather bags from scratch. My small business is thriving, with clients from all over the world. The Khelman bag studio is located in San Francisco, CA, and currently, over 1500 happy customers own and enjoy their Khelman bags.
You're very welcome to check out my other pages to know more about me:
A bit about how it works
First, I won't tell you to break the bank on tools: you actually only need a few to get started. And chances are, you already have some of what we'll use at home, especially if you're already into sewing or crafting: ruler, awl, scissors, utility knife, or rotary knife. I'll also tell you about the glue, thread, and needles we'll be using.
Secondly, I use sewing machines to create bags, and I'll demonstrate the techniques for making bags at home using a sewing machine. I own two machines: a Brother BM2800 home sewing machine and an industrial Sailrite LS-1.
The bags showcased in the courses and PDF patterns were primarily crafted using my domestic sewing machine to illustrate how to handle any potential issues you might face. However, if you happen to have an industrial machine, that's fantastic — it will work just as effectively.
Additionally, the patterns include stitching lines if you prefer to hand-stitch the bags. I'm sorry, I don't teach how to hand stitch. However, the pattern making, materials, and assembly order will still be applicable to you.
The lessons are online and come as recorded videos that you can watch on your phone, tablet, or laptop. You can learn at your own pace, pausing and rewatching as many times as needed.
They are packed with techniques, hacks, and shortcuts that I've perfected over the years. The lessons are presented in a step-by-step format, providing detailed explanations of why we do certain things to give you a clear understanding of the process.
They are also structured to make it easy to progress, even if you only have 15-20 minutes to spare.
Whether you're here for fun crafting, to start a side hustle, or to grow your business, your time won't be wasted. We'll learn how to create the best-selling and most popular models and master all the techniques to elevate your craft. It'll be my genuine pleasure to share my knowledge with you. Thank you for joining the class; I'm truly delighted to welcome you to our bag-making community!
If you have any lingering questions, I'm here to help. 🌷
Warm regards, Ksenia
We're here to learn in a friendly environment where no question is considered silly.
♥️ please remember that ♥️
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