Here at Made in Greenwich we often hear people say that they would like to ditch the day job in order to focus on their creativity, but not everyone is brave enough to take the plunge. Of course, there are lots of good reasons why the side hustle should remain just that - you don’t have to worry about making a living from it for one thing!
Lucy Rowland from Baish Designs bought her first sewing machine about ten years ago and it was then that her love affair with fabric really blossomed.
“I used to buy fat quarters from a quilting shop near Hampton Court. I adored the colours and the designs but didn’t really know what to do with them. Then I got a sewing machine. I was afraid of it at first, but I persevered and taught myself how to use it. I started making things for craft fairs and soon I couldn’t stop. Fate took a hand. I was made redundant from my job as a retail manager, which gave me the opportunity to focus on my sewing. "
Lucy now sells her beautiful hand crafted bags, purses and other accessories at Made in Greenwich. Her Frida Kahlo range is a best-seller and her gorgeous Liberty print lavender bags fly out of the door.
“My mum used to grow lots of lavender in her garden, and so I started out making lavender bags. Making my lavender bags brings back lots of happy memories."
So, what would Lucy’s advice be to anyone wanting to start their own small business?
“It’s not necessarily an easy choice, but I get such a kick out of seeing people appreciate my products. It helps that I have a supportive partner and I now work part-time at Hobbycraft which means I have a reliable source of income whilst I build my brand. I'd like to be my own boss one day, and if I continue to put in the effort, I really hope I’ll be able to do it and make Baish Designs my full-time job. I’m just not happy unless I’m sewing!”
Buy Lucy’s stunning limited edition wipe clean wash bag and make-up purse for the special price of £28. Normally retailing at £35 for the pair, this pretty and practical set is available exclusively from Made in Greenwich. The set comes in three beautiful artists’ fabric prints, Klimt, Van Gogh and Monet, and makes a gorgeous gift for Mother's Day. Click here to purchase.
Contact Lucy at lucy@baishdesigns.co.uk
