Crystalyn Kae Blog

One of the last most recent hurdles of moving my production process to NYC is finding vendors with specialized equipment- so that I can keep my designs consistent.  For the most part, I’ve been absolutely blown away by the quality of expert help in NYC 

A behind-the-scenes look at Manufacture New York’s shared fashion studio in the Garment District, where independent designers worked side by side building their brands. These photos from the 2013 opening weekend capture the collaborative energy that helped many small fashion businesses take root in New York.

A mad dash to the post office: this bags was started in Seattle, finished by me in a haphazard setup NYC. Hopefully I’m on to something good. #madeinnyc #handbag (at New York Penn Station)

When I ran out of fabric while finishing a batch of handbags in my tiny NYC studio, the solution was hiding in plain sight. This is the story of how a beloved pair of curtains became purse linings—and a reminder that reclaimed materials often lead to the most meaningful designs.

Considering that my handbag workshop is also my tiny 200 sq foot East Village apartment, and my cutting 'table' is actually my kitchen floor (there's not room for a table!) - you'd understand why I'd jump at the chance to use a tiny corner of a colleagues workshop on an early Saturday monring.

I'm so grateful for the helpful folks I"m meeting along the way to help re-boot my NYC business. Monique and Catherine at Boss Studio. . you're my heros!

Have you ever done something out of sheer desperation that actually is kinda genius? Use your hardwood floor as a grid for marker-making. #makeitwork #madeinnyc #handbag #patternmaking (at Alphabet City)

tools of the trade on Flickr.

I have introduced these new styles as a way to offer low-impact accessories that are gentler on the planet and made in the USA. You can shop all my limited-edition bags here

skiving champagne leather bag on Flickr.

every edge of leather must be shaved to a taper to make a bag…I do it by hand. #crazy