Crystalyn Kae Blog

The Brooklyn Fashion + Design Accelerator (BFDA) was one of New York’s most ambitious sustainability-focused fashion incubators. A part of Pratt Institute’s at the old Pfizer building, it brought together designers, researchers, and entrepreneurs exploring new models for responsible fashion businesses. Although the program closed in 2019, the designers and ideas that emerged from it continue to shape the future of sustainable fashion.

I’ve tried many versions of this business—retail, studios, employees, contractors, wholesale, and markets. What I’ve learned is that success doesn’t come from constant expansion or overwork. It comes from building something that supports a full, well-lived life.

A rare discovery from a Boeing pilot’s estate inspired a special collaboration with Seattle’s Museum of Flight. Crafted from genuine mid-century airplane upholstery, this limited run of 96 one-of-a-kind bags connects aviation history with sustainable design.

A coated canvas bag begins with a strong woven fabric that’s treated with a permanent protective glaze. Unlike faux leather or polyurethane, coated canvas won’t peel or crack—and at Crystalyn Kae, ours are even machine washable. For nearly 25 years, this eco-conscious material has been the backbone of our most-loved, long-lasting bags

Ever wonder why your 'same size' jeans fit differently each time you order them? It comes down to one thing most brands skip: the tech pack. Here's how a handwritten note to my mom taught me that consistency isn't magic—it's communication, and why the details you never see matter more than you think.

Every Crystalyn Kae bag is constructed in small batches using industrial equipment and materials engineered for durability. From seam placement to reinforcement stitching, construction decisions are made for long-term use — not just first impressions.

The story of how a 1951 Singer Featherweight brought me back to my roots — and how restoring vintage Featherweights became part of my creative practice.

Crystalyn Kae bags are sewn on restored industrial machines built for durability and precision. From walking foot construction to double-needle strap reinforcement, the tools behind each bag determine seam strength, load distribution, and long-term performance.

For young designers just starting out these are the skills and methodologies to keep you in the game for the long-haul   Do as much as you can to get your business off the ground before leaving your day job. Think...

After having tinkered with and restored over a dozen sewing machines this year, many folks have asked how to get started fixing up their own vintage sewing machine. Recently I wrote an in depth overview about where to find reliable...

All too often, we forget the stories behind the things we use everyday. But when we take a moment to learn about where something comes from, it can add a whole new layer of meaning to our experience. 

Have you ever had one of those moments where you see something and it just clicks? That's how I felt when I saw Lee Krasner's Icarus painting. The bold colors, the punctuated bursts of reds and pinks ...it was like nothing I had ever seen before. And it inspired me to create a collection of vintage fabric bags and sustainable recycled leather purses.

Pony hair, as luxurious and intriguing as it sounds, doesn't actually come from ponies. Love it or hate it, pony hair has captivated fashion enthusiasts for decades. Its luxurious feel, combined with its ability to be transformed into stunning patterns and colors, has made it a perennial favorite. From the glamorous Hollywood Golden Age to modern-day runways, pony hair has maintained its allure.

Croc-embossed leather doesn’t come from crocodiles—but how it’s made might surprise you. Learn how this material is created, why it’s considered a more responsible option, and how our approach to reclaimed materials has evolved over time.

  Patchwork bags are here!  We've collaged buttery-soft lambskin remnants from our own collection, and then Crystalyn lovingly zig-zag stitched each together, on our 1930's era Zig Zag sewing machine. Not only does it give a textural interest,  it's also makes your bag super secure,...

Every Crystalyn Kae bag is designed and sewn in Seattle using reclaimed textiles chosen for durability and character. Made in small batches since 2001, these bags are built for real life — including the washing machine.

With 2021 coming to a close, and 2022 finally here, it is so important to take time to reflect on what success and highs got me to this point and the new year. So let’s get into it!   Expanded my...

Vintage fabrics give every Crystalyn Kae bag its own personality. Here are seven of the places those materials are discovered—from estate sales and textile recycling programs to flea markets abroad.

  Why do we need to invent new fabrics, if we have so much waste? Having more than 20 years of experience in the bag-making industry, I've found myself thinking the following: Why do we need to invent new fabrics,...

Crystalyn Kae meets Dave Clark, CEO Worldwide Consumer. It was a normal, average day in the office… (or should I say workshop) until I get an email regarding a visit with Dave Clark of amazon to MY workshop. Mind blown....

From grandma’s couch to a timeless handbag — see how we transformed stacks of midcentury vintage upholstery swatches into one-of-a-kind floral bags. A behind-the-scenes look at our process, from washing the fabrics to cutting them into new life

"Avoid these 10 common mistakes and turn your next craft show into a success! Learn how to prepare, set up your booth, and interact with customers to boost sales. Craft shows are a fantastic way for handmade businesses to connect with customers and make sales. However, navigating the world of craft shows can be tricky, especially for newcomers. This guide explores 10 common mistakes crafters make at shows and offers practical tips to transform your booth into a customer magnet.