** UPDATE: All of the bags have sold out. Thanks to those who have donated!**
For the past several months I’ve been working on starting an online store to sell some of the things that I make, starting with embroidered wool bags. I’ve had so much fun designing, embroidering, and sewing the bags and I really wanted to share them with you all. You can see the bags and shop here.
Right about the time that I was getting ready to setup my store, the world changed entirely with Coronavirus. It no longer feels appropriate for me, a person with a full-time salaried job, to be making side money on my projects when others are struggling to keep a business alive or put food on the table. That leaves me with a big pile of unsold goods in my sewing space. But then, I had an idea! Instead of selling my work and making a profit, I can donate 100% of the proceeds to those in need from the current crisis.
When you purchase a bag 100% of the revenue, not profit, goes to the charity of your choice. I won’t be recouping the cost of materials, every dollar that you pay (outside of shipping cost) will go to charity. You’ll have the choice of 5 charities to donate to and you’ll receive a donation receipt from me shortly after your purchase.
At some point, I will be selling the bags for profit again – likely at a higher price because they aren’t so cheap to make. There is a limited quantity, but I’ll working to replenish as quickly as possible. So if you want to buy one, now’s the time! However, if you are shopping with limited funds and deciding between purchasing from me or from a small business who relies on your support, please support them instead. I plan on continuing to add products, so there will be opportunities to purchase in the future as well.
The bags
All of the bags are made with felted wool and lined with 100% cotton. The embroidery is done on an embroidery machine and all sewing is done by me. For now I’m just offering a few of my own designs, however I do plan to do custom embroidery in the future. If this is something you’d be interested in, feel free to contact me!
The charities
The charity options are specifically those helping with the current Coronavirus crisis.
Feeding America: The largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Your donation will be used to to get food to local food banks for those in need. Read more here.
CDC Foundation: Helps the CDC do more, faster, by creating effective partnerships between CDC and corporations, foundations, organizations and individuals to fight Coronavirus. Read more here.
Direct Relief: Direct Relief is working to get protective gear and critical care medications to as many health workers on the frontlines as possible. Read more here.
Invisible Hands: Help deliver groceries and supplies to the most at-risk community members facing COVID-19, serving NYC and NJ only. Read more here.
Meals on Wheels: Help keep at-risk senior citizens safe by ensuring that meals are delivered directly to their homes. Read more here.
