Early Days, Epic Ways: The Beginnings That Built Chaotic Projects

We would never forget our firsts. Be it first love, first heartbreak, first job, first house – each of these firsts hold a special place in our lumpy brain and capturing the emotion of experiencing that on the first time. This also applies with crafting because I found myself so often to randomly scroll through the pictures of my early creations, reflecting on how far I've come. It reassures me that although progress is never a linear journey, growth and improvement are always present.

I would like to take a moment to deeply appreciate all of my firsts because these initial creations have truly shaped and molded me into the crafter I am today. Each of these firsts represents a significant milestone in my journey. So, here are some of my most memorable firsts throughout my crafting journey:

1. First Hang Tag: This was the very first hang tag we included with our very first bag. I printed it at home using watercolor paper because I didn't have any other paper. We attached it with a ziplock to the bag because we didn't have any hang ties back then. Special thanks to my friend Elva for encouraging me to explore this one because look where I am now! Looking back, it makes me chuckle and feel nostalgic about those humble beginnings. 😂

2. First Bag Component: The first time I worked with bag component and I didn't know that there are lots and lots of different component out there. The technology side of it really amazed me because the technicality of each component is really well-thought. Big thanks to my husband for this one, as I snatched it from his studio (he's a very talented and good-looking crafter 🤭). His support and shared tools were invaluable.

3. First Zipper Pouch: This is the first pouch with a zipper that I made. I remember being quite terrified of zippers back then. Each stitch was a small step towards conquering that fear, and it feels rewarding to look back and see how far I've come since then. I ended up gift this pouch to a friend and she said that she really likes the color and the texture of the fabric. A big win for me!

4. First Drawstring Pouch: Made for a friend, I didn't know how to use a loop-turner (despite having the tool), so I ended up using a chopstick to push through the loop and turn it inside out. It was a funny and resourceful moment that still makes me smile. The pouch was pretty straightforward but it was very valuable because it's basically the blueprint of all drawstring pouch I made later on.

5. First Time Prototyping a Sling Bag: Crafting a sling bag was one of the biggest challenge my entire crafting journey. The pattern consists of different sized bits and it needs to have volume, so measurement matters. Aside from that, zipper mechanism was also very challenging. This specific zipper mechanic requires a meticulous application because it opens a slit instead of something like opening a book. I almost shed a few tears for this one because it was the first time I was able to attach a zipper using this technique. Such a proud moment for me as a crafter, realizing the new possibilities in my crafting skills.

6. First Book Sleeve: I got to admit it but honestly this first version of book sleeve was very ugly and weird hahaha! I had a hard time to think of the best way to close it (too lazy to look for inspiration honestly) and ended up creating this elastic string as the gate to secure the book. It was far from perfect, but it was a crucial step in the learning process. Thank goodness we've moved on to better designs, but I cherish the memory of this first attempt.

7. First Tote Bag: Creating the reversible system for this tote bag was one of my proudest moments as a crafter. I thought about it for almost three days before the idea finally came to me like an epiphany. The satisfaction of that breakthrough moment is still fresh in my mind. It's also such an important experience because it ended up become the blueprint of all things reversible from the studio.

Looking back at these firsts, I'm filled with gratitude and pride. Every step, every mistake, and every little victory has brought me to where I am today. The journey of crafting is one of constant learning and evolving, and I am thankful for each milestone along the way. Thank you for supporting Chaotic Projects and being part of this wonderful journey! 💖✨