There are some bags that stay in your mind for years - and for me, that bag was the The Row Margaux.
I originally bought one a couple of years ago because I completely fell in love with the shape, proportions, and understated design. But when the bag arrived, it unfortunately had visible stretch marks running right across the front panel. For that price point, I just couldn’t justify keeping it, so I returned it.
But I never stopped thinking about it.
I filmed the entire process of making my own version here:
Designing My Own Leather Margaux-Inspired Bag
Eventually I decided: if I still loved the design this much years later, I should just make my own version.
Luckily, I already had the perfect leather waiting in the studio - a beautifully aged brown leather with natural markings throughout.
It might sound ironic considering the issue I had with the original bag, but to me there’s a huge difference between natural variation used intentionally in leathercraft and a fault that feels accidental. This leather has consistent texture and markings all over, which makes it feel rich, organic, and completely intentional as part of the bag design.
As with all custom leather bag projects, everything started with pattern making.
The Leather Bag Making Process
Before any sewing or assembly could begin, I first had to develop the bag patterns from scratch. This is always one of the most important stages in handmade bag making because even the smallest proportion changes can completely alter the final silhouette. As always, once I had the bag pattern, I started by making a mock up to check that the pattern would translate well into a leather bag.
For the mock up, I used this gorgeous beige lizard effect leather. I did originally try to complete this bag on a sewing machine but soon realised the design lends itself better to a hand-stitched construction.
Once the leather bag pattern pieces were finalised I:
- Cut all of the leather panels by hand
- Marked and punched every stitch hole
- Prepared the rolled handles
- Constructed the leather bag entirely by hand
- Added a herringbone fabric lining
- Installed the hardware and closure system
I lined the interior with a stunning herringbone fabric which gave the bag a really elevated finish while still feeling practical and durable.
Adjusting the Design for Everyday Use
One of the biggest changes I made was extending the rolled leather handles.
Although I love the look of the original Margaux bag, I never liked how short the handles were. I wanted this version to feel more wearable for everyday use - something you could comfortably carry on your shoulder rather than only in the crook of your arm.
That small adjustment completely changed the functionality of the bag while still keeping the same relaxed luxury feel.
I also incorporated:
- Adjustable side buckle details
- A structured leather base
- The signature d-ring and t-bar style closure at the top of the bag
Those details are such a huge part of what gives this style of luxury leather handbag its character.
Why I Love Making My Own Bags
There’s something incredibly satisfying about being able to create the exact version of a bag you wish existed.
Not only could I customise the proportions and functionality, but I could also choose the precise leather, lining, construction techniques, and finishing details that I personally wanted.
That’s one of the things I love most about leather bag making - it allows you to combine craftsmanship, design, and functionality into something completely personal.
Want to Learn Leather Bag Making?
If watching this process has inspired you to start making your own bags, you can come and learn with me in person in London through my leather bag making workshops.
Or, if you’d prefer to learn from home, you can join my Online Bagmaking Course and master handbag making techniques at your own pace.