I don't know where the last four weeks went. It's only starting to dawn on me that this is real now...

Rewind six months and I was feeling unproductive and down at the start of lockdown. To get myself out of the slump I set myself a task to 'apply to a thing' every week. An exhibition, a grant, whatever. I applied for a Crowdfunding initiative with Creative Scotland on a whim and when I got the email to say I'd been selected I felt very unprepared. Queue three weeks of being suddenly extremely busy and a lil stressed and overwhelmed. But beyond happy to be so busy doing what I love.

On the 17th August I launched my wee collection in the hope that I'd raise enough to help cover the final gargantuan investments needed to put my wee bags into production in the UK. I wasn’t sure I’d make my first target in a week, let alone double it within the first 48 hours. The response and support was incredible and beyond any of my hopes or expectations. It also meant that I was selected by Creative Scotland and RBS Back Her Business who then also supported my campaign.

A month later and my Crowdfunder finished this Monday. I had my first shift back at work in 6 months on the same day as my campaign came to a close. On the train back up from Glasgow I was thinking about each person who donated, or bought a-twice-sold-out print, or pre-ordered their very own piece from my first ever collection. 

People from all walks of my life came together to make this happen. Those who knew me when I was wee (very wee - Rosemary I think you were there when I was born!), from when my favourite thing was to pick shells on beaches and make them into bangles (for you Pat!). Those I went to Primary and High school with (a few from playgroup too!) and have stayed so close to ever since. The incredible group I went to college and uni with - some of the most inspiring and kind humans I'll ever meet. My Highland community and all the local press who supported me. Scotland's creative community - a true joy to be a part of. And most of all my family - I couldn't have asked for a more true and loving support group. 

Exactly 149 supporters - I think I could name each and every one of you right now. Even those I don't know, have never met, but who believe in what this is all about. To you I am so grateful. You have validated my dream and have helped make it a reality. I am so excited to make this happen!

While I wait on leather being made in Italy I'll be sending out all your prints this week. Each one has been signed by both Rachel Millar and myself and is numbered in the order they have been bought. They're a thing of beauty and I hope you love them. 

For those waiting on a Swing Case, a Barrel Bag, a Half Moon Crossbody or the Circular Bag - keep an eye on my instagram for updates. You'll see your leather arriving, watch me weaving your bags and get real time updates as they're made up into your final bags over the next few months. Thank you for being a part of this from the very start.