Everything you need to know before getting in touch.

How long does it take to make a memory bag?

Each bag takes approximately two days of focused handcrafting once your order reaches the top of the waiting list. I will give you a more accurate timeline when you pay your deposit and confirm your order. If you have a specific occasion in mind, please tell me as early as possible and I will always do my best to work around important dates.

How much does a bag cost?

Because every bag is bespoke, pricing depends on the style you choose and the complexity of the fabric involved. Some fabrics require additional stabilising or careful handling, which affects the time involved. Contact me with your chosen style and fabric details for a personalised quote. All quotes are confirmed in full before any work begins, and the price will never change once agreed.

What fabrics work best?

Non-stretch fabrics are ideal. My favourites are tweed, boiled wool for outer fabric of most bags, crisp cotton shirts or dresses for lining and wash bags, and cotton canvas upholstery fabric especially for tote bags, also ideal for the outer fabric for most of my bags. They produce a strong, structured bag that holds its shape beautifully. Stretch fabrics such as sweatshirt material or polo shirts can be used with the right stabilising. Very loose weaves such as chunky woollen jumpers produce variable results. I will always advise you honestly if I have concerns about your chosen fabric, and nothing will be cut until we have agreed on the approach.

How many bags can I get from a garment?

It depends on the garment and the size, as an example:

A shoulder bag will require a large tweed jacket and shirt.

Two crossbody bags can be made from one large pair of adult trousers and a shirt.

One large tote bag will need a curtain, dog bed cover, or large household textile.

Wash bags are best made from two cotton dresses or shirts.

These are rough guides. The exact number of bags will depend on the size of the garments and the style chosen. If you have a small amount of fabric but want to create bags for several family members, I can supplement your fabric with complementary materials from my own stock, at an additional cost. This is something I do regularly for families who want everyone to have a piece of the same fabric.

Do I need to provide two separate items of clothing?

For most bag styles, yes. One item is typically used for the outer fabric and another for the lining. A classic combination is a tweed jacket for the outside and a cotton shirt for the lining. The tote bag only requires one type of fabric as it isn’t lined, the best fabric for this is upholstery fabric such as curtains, or a dog bed cover. I will guide you through exactly what is needed for your chosen style when we speak.

Why do you wash the garments?

To preserve the fabric before cutting, all items are washed in a gentle non-bio detergent. This is a standard part of my process and cannot be skipped. If you are concerned the scent of a loved one's clothing will diminish, I recommend setting aside a small bottle of their favourite perfume or aftershave before dropping off the garments. Once the bag has been collected, a light spritz into the air near the bag brings that sensory memory back beautifully.

Can I have a bag made without providing any fabric?

Absolutely. I am very happy to make bespoke bags using my own carefully sourced fabrics. I have a particular love of Harris Tweed and Liberty cotton lawn, however I am very happy to work with a range of fabrics. There will be an additional cost to cover materials, and I will confirm this in full before we proceed.

Do you offer delivery?

I do not currently offer delivery or shipping. I take local orders only, covering the areas local to Reading and South Oxon. All garments are dropped off and collected in person. This keeps things personal and reduces our environmental footprint and cost.

What is your waiting list like?

This varies at busy times of year. I maintain a waiting list to ensure every order receives my full, undivided attention and is never rushed. If you are working towards a specific date, the earlier you get in touch, the better.

What if I don't have enough fabric for everyone in the family?

This is one of the most common situations I encounter when memory bags are requested for the wider family. I can use complementary fabrics from my own collection to extend the fabric further, ensuring every family member can have their own bag. There is an additional cost for the fabric used. Many families find this the most meaningful option because everyone ends up with something that combines the original garment with something new, making each bag unique while still connecting everyone to the same memory.

Is there a deposit required?

Yes, a deposit is required to secure your place on the waiting list. I will confirm the deposit amount along with your full quote before you commit to anything. The remaining balance is due on collection.

Can you make a bag from a pet's belongings?

Yes. Pet memory bags have become one of the most requested things I make. I work with the fabric cover of dog beds. Losing an animal is a real and profound loss, and having something to carry in their memory can bring genuine comfort. Please do get in touch to discuss your fabric and I will advise on what is possible.

What bag styles do you offer?

I offer a shoulder bag, crossbody bag, a tote bag and a wash bag. The best style for your project will depend on the fabric you have and the size of the garments. When you get in touch, I will talk you through the options that will work best for your particular fabric and give you a clear picture of what the finished bag will look like.