Amos Gachomo Shuma crafted a durable, elegant black sidebag with three zippers for Tanja, ensuring it was both practical and stylish for daily walks. What's your wish?
A request by Tanja from Alken, Germany
I would like a sidebag with the following specifications:
The bag should be in the color black. The material can be either high-quality cotton or corduroy, depending on availability and stability, to ensure durability and a comfortable fit. It would be important to me that the fabric is not too stiff but still robust.
The size of the bag should be 19 cm wide and 22 cm high to provide enough space for personal items without being too large or unwieldy.
The bag should have three zippers, all on the front.
The sidebag is mainly used for walking and must be light and functional. I have gladly attached a sketch. Of course you can contact me. I can also send you a photo of my old bag with 2 zippers. Many thanks in advance.
The Journey of Creating Durable Black Sidebag: Cotton or Corduroy, 3 Zippers
Negotiation & Planning
Hi Tanja,
Thanks so much for sharing your request for the sidebag. Your detailed description really helps us understand what you're looking for. We've noted your preferences for a black color and materials like high-quality cotton or corduroy. Both are great choices for a balance between comfort and durability.
Regarding the size and design, having three zippers on the front sounds like a practical setup for easy access, especially for a bag meant for walks where functionality is key. It's good to know you're aiming for a sturdy yet lightweight bag.
You've mentioned the option of sending a photo of your old bag with two zippers. Would this be to reflect any specific design elements from your old bag that you'd like to incorporate into the new one? This could help us ensure your new bag meets your expectations even more closely.
Let us know if there are any particular features or details you'd like to include or avoid in the design, like pockets or strap types, to enhance its functionality for your walks.
Looking forward to creating something you'll love!
Hello, thanks for the feedback 🙂
Here is a photo of the old bag, unfortunately it is quite broken and I really need the sidebag with a zipper. Zippers are a must, especially when I go out with the dogs. 3 zippers would of course be great. Please let me know if you need any more information. Best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
The illustration you provided is detailed enough and I would like to start production once we agree on the cost
Hello, thank you very much, the price quoted is absolutely fine and I am very happy about the bag 🙂 I have a small query here:
The sidebag is made in Kenya? Will there be additional customs costs? Can you please let me know how much these are?
Many thanks and best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
Thank you for the response,there are no other cost involved during production.. Unless Shipping fee and VAT that I don't really work on.once I produce the bag, the management will take over and shall inform you about any other fees
Crafting Process
How to make a Durable Black Sidebag: Cotton or Corduroy, 3 Zippers – work in progress
Thanks for considering us to produce your bag.Ill update you on every stage of production
Hello, great! I would be very happy to receive a photo so that I can see whether the result meets my wishes.
Was a light, not stiff, but robust fabric found? Will it be corduroy? Was everything clear on the drawing? Will the belt also be made of fabric as requested? I will be wearing the sidebag on my left side. Do I still need to send my hip measurements? Many thanks and best wishes 🙂 (Automatic translation)
Hi Tanja, sorry for the delay
I didn't understand well how the system works
Below is the progress so far
Hi, thanks for the photos!
But there is very little space between the first zipper and the hip. I think I had indicated 4 or 5 cm of space here, because otherwise I can't reach into the pocket. The strap is also attached directly to the bag, I wanted buckles here, as shown on the plan. Otherwise the bag would be too stiff and stick out from the hips. I am sorry, but the bag was not made according to my specifications and wishes.
Can this be changed? I want the sidebag to look exactly like my old bag, just with one more compartment. I have just uploaded another photo of the old bag, please check it, especially picture 153802. Thank you very much for your feedback and best regards (Automatic translation)
I'll have to redo the bag.With your specifications.Is there any other part you would like me to consider
Hello, the bag should really look like the old sidebag.
Fabric corduroy, color black.
With silver buckles and silver rivets, all zippers in black please.
Hip measurement: 85cm
If possible 3 compartments: a large one to reach in, one sewn on underneath and another small one on the front.
Exact measurements are on the drawing. I had actually sent everything and also asked if anything was unclear. I am sending the most important photos again.
Please also note the specific shape of the bag, as drawn (ergonomic).
Compliance with the dimensions, size and shape is very important here.
Please ask if anything is unclear!
I have been waiting for almost a month now without any questions being asked.
Many thanks and best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
I have the materials ready
I tried a sample as shown above
Stitching and finishing ill do tomorrow
Putting to consideration all the highlited details
Should I put a fabric lining in the inside of the bag?
And for the first zip,5Cm in small
Should it be 5 inches
Kind regards
Beryl
The first zipper must be 5 cm from the edge of the hip. If there is more edge, you can get into the bag better due to the narrowness of the hip. If the zipper does not have this high edge, you can no longer get into the bag with your hand...
Please try it out with the first bag. If it is close to your body, you won't be able to get in and out quickly with your hand. The 5 cm high edge is very important, as can be seen in the photo and the sketch.
As shown in the sketch and the picture.
I have just measured it: The first zipper, which is also at the hip, should be 16cm. The second zipper is 13cm. I'm not sure about the third one as I can't measure it. I would try to make it as wide as possible? Is it possible to cut out a piece of paper and place it on the fabric so that I know how it will look? Then we would also be able to determine the length of the zipper more easily.
But a 5cm zipper is too small, I can't get my hand into it.
A slightly rubberized lining wouldn't be bad. I could then also put dog cookies in it. My clothes wouldn't get so wet and my keys wouldn't rub through the fabric. I walk the dogs in all weathers. But the rubberized lining has to be a very thin fabric. The bag must not be heavy or stiff. But that is a very good idea!
Thank you very much! (Automatic translation)
Haven't been able to find The plain black zippers
Can I use ones similar to the sample for finishing
It's the only thing keeping me from finishing right away
Hello, you are welcome to use the double zippers. That is very practical.
Have all the measurements been taken into account, especially the at least 5cm high edge?
I could now see the video with the previously made bag, which was not possible before with a cell phone. I couldn't play a video with my cell phone and I don't have a laptop.
Unfortunately, you can't reach down to the bottom of the bag with your hand with the bag you made first.
I've had to throw many bags away because there was no high edge and I couldn't get into the bag quickly enough... Hence the custom-made bag. I can no longer order my old bag.
But the new bag looks very good if all the measurements have been taken into account 🙂
Best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
Thank you.Ill send you the pictures in few after am done.
all edges and measurements considered
Thank you
Great, I'm happy 🙂 (Automatic translation)
The project is complete as shown above.
Please confirm the details.
I should still receive photos of the finished bag. These are not included here. Can I get them first please? Thank you very much. (Automatic translation)
Sure.am sending them
Great, if I still get the pictures, I can give the release for shipping afterwards. Thank you very much 🙂 (Automatic translation)
The project has been completed as shown above.
Please confirm details
Good morning Beryl, the sidebag looks absolutely gorgeous!!! Really great, I'm delighted! I am happy to confirm the completion. Best regards (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja,
This is Vicky, the local operations manager. I recently received your custom sidebag from the artisan and have completed a quality check based on your specifications and the approved sketch. I’m happy to share that the overall design and ergonomic shape closely follow your sketch, and the bag maintains the look and functionality you described.
The bag measures 22 cm by 22 cm, slightly wider than originally planned, but the silhouette still aligns well with your design. The first zipper is positioned at 4.5 cm from the edge and the second at 8 cm. While these placements differ from the intended 5 cm and 13 cm, both compartments are easily accessible and allow for comfortable hand access. The bag is made from black corduroy, as requested, and has no inner lining, keeping it flexible and soft. The strap is made from the same corduroy fabric with silver buckles, while the rivets are gold—a small variation from the original vision.
All zippers function smoothly, and overall, the bag is quite practical. The stitching could be a bit neater, and there are a few loose threads visible in some areas. That said, the key design elements have been well executed, and the bag brings together both form and function. I’ve attached several photos so you can take a closer look at the details and finishes.
Kindly have a look and let us know if you're fully satisfied with how everything has turned out. Once we get your confirmation, we’ll be happy to proceed with shipping.
Best regards,
Vicky Achieng.
Hello Vicky, thank you very much for your good feedback. I am a little disappointed now, as I asked Beryl several times if all the measurements were correct. She confirmed yes twice. Now I find out that this is unfortunately not the case after all... The height is correct at 22cm, but the width should only be 17cm according to my sketch. That's a proud 5cm difference and is very high. I am just 1.70m tall and weigh 49kg. I am very slim and have very slender legs. The width here will be too wide for me. I have also just seen that the top zipper has been sewn in the wrong way round. This means that one zipper opens in the wrong direction. I've also just noticed that there are 2 rivets on one side and only 1 on the other. I assume that Beryl didn't follow my sketch and only made the bag based on the photo of my old bag. I lost a rivet on my old bag. The bag is slowly breaking, so I ordered a new one.
The distance from the top edge to the zipper must be 5 cm. The bag is tight and rounded on a bony hip. If the zipper is too far up, I can't reach in quickly. I have had to throw away various bags because the distance was not wide enough. I have two lively dogs and I need the side bag as a walking bag. A quick grip is important. What is also disappointing is the rubberized lining, which Beryl herself suggested. It's a shame that the rivets aren't silver, Beryl didn't ask me about this. But that's not a bad thing. What I don't like is the fact that the seams didn't turn out well, the measurements weren't kept, a zipper was sewn in the wrong way round, the distance at the top is too small (the bag would have been better if it had been a bit longer) and a rivet is missing. I am very sorry, this is Beryl's second attempt. I'm not sure if she will be able to make the sidebag to measure. But unfortunately I can't agree to the shipping. The bag has to be robust and made to my specifications. I am very sorry. (Automatic translation)
Hi Tanja, sorry to disappoint.I actually did my best on this.
Maybe you can give the order to someone else.Thank you
Hi Beryl, I am also very sorry. But I couldn't give the go-ahead after what Vicky told me. The measurements were very important to me and I had communicated this several times and also asked for them. You have implemented the idea of the 3rd compartment very well, but if the seams are not good, a zipper has been inserted incorrectly and a rivet is missing, I cannot give the approval. I wish you all the best for the future. Best regards, Tanja (Automatic translation)
Thank you 😊
Hello Tanja,
I am Amos I wish to take up the project
I have reviewed the artwork and photos of your old bag. The shape and size are clear. Could you please provide the measurements for length of the strap.
The material is corduroy. I recommend adding a light lining inside for a polished finish.
Hello Amos, I am pleased to meet you and that you would like to make my sidebag.
My hip measurement is 82cm.
I wear the sidebag on the left.
Black corduroy is great!
I would like a slightly rubberized lining, if possible, so that I can put dog cookies in the first compartment. It would also keep my keys dry. I take the dogs out in all weathers.
I wanted the fittings in silver, i.e. rivets and buckles for the strap. The strap should be adjustable and no wider than 4 cm. Please click fastener, it would be great if the click fastener is on the belly. I have severe back problems.
The bag should be rectangular, but ergonomic at the top of the hem, i.e. slightly curved. I don't know if this can be seen so well on the sketch. Length 22cm, width 19cm.
Very important: There must be at least 5 cm of space at the top edge up to the first zipper. It can be a few millimeters more, but it must not be less. This is very, very important to me and the only reason for a custom-made product.
Beryl did a good job with the idea of the third pocket. I'm looking forward to seeing how you make the bag.
Please let me know if you have any questions so that we can make the project a success.
Many thanks and best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
Hello Amos, here are a few key details that may be important:
The sketch was created by me as I saw the bag in front of me. If I carry the bag on the left side, the zippers must also be opened from front to back. If the bag is in front of you, the eyelets for opening (when closed) must therefore be on the left.
Unfortunately, I found an unclear indication on the old sketch, I'm sorry about that and I've corrected it. Mr. Baumeister was kind enough to upload the revised sketch. I have now done this again as a precaution. On the new sketch, important details have been marked in orange to make it easier to distinguish between the sketches. Please only work according to these specifications, photo name 20250426_163803.
The total height of the bag is 25cm from the center, can also be 1cm more in length, bag will be rectangular.
The distance from the first zipper to the end of the hem is therefore 20cm.
Width 19cm, but can be approx. 1cm less. Distance from the top hem center to the first zipper 5cm.
I hope that all ambiguities on the sketch have now been resolved. Please let me know if you notice any ambiguities so that we can clarify them.
Many thanks and best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
Dear Tanja,
Thank you for providing the details—this information is very helpful. Regarding the lining, sourcing a rubberized material may be challenging. I would recommend considering a waterproof alternative for the front pocket. For the fittings, silver I'd okay.
A waterproof alternative would be great! The dog cookies are sometimes very greasy, if I can wipe out the first compartment that would be great! Does the bag stay light and not get stiff? Then very much so.
I would like the fittings in silver, if it is difficult because of the material, please let me know. (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja
Please find an attached a photo of the fittings, I will use a light waterproof material,.
Thanks
Top, thank you!
What is the 2nd adjustable buckle for?
Please use 2 rectangular buckles at the ends of the straps so that the bag fits snugly and remains flexible. Thank you! (Automatic translation)
"Hello Tanja,
Thank you for the photos. The images of your old bag show a gusset. However, the drawing and your explanation do not include measurements. I assume the new bag should be flat, as shown in your drawing."
Yes exactly, I would like this gusset please. On the drawing I have drawn it in slightly with a width of 2cm. But only the front pocket has a gusset. The main compartments of the bag are flat. I want the bag to look like the old one as it was perfect. Thank you! (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja
Please look at the phot I have sent and confirm that I also include that gusset.
Thanks
I have also attached a photo. Gusset is confirmed 🙂 Thank you! (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja
Thanks, I now have every detail
I'm looking forward to the bag! Thank you! (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja
The bag is almost done just need to add an adjuster the one I had proved to be small, I will add it tomorrow.
Wow, that was fast!!! I'm thrilled, she looks very good! (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja.
Will share the complete project tomorrow.thanks
Hello Amos, were the dimensions as specified?
I will be happy when the project can be completed. Best regards (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja
Please find the photos of the finished product.
Hello Amos, thank you very much for the new photos, it looks really perfect, I am very happy!!! Of course I will now give you the OK that the bag is ready for shipping. Thank you for finishing everything so quickly and putting so much effort into it! (Automatic translation)
Hello Tanja,
This is Vicky, again😁. I’ve just completed a quality check of your custom bag from Amos, and I’m pleased to confirm that all specifications from your request and the reference sketches were carefully followed.
The bag measures 19 cm wide and 22 cm high, staying well within the acceptable margin of deviation. The top zipper is placed over 5 cm from the top edge, and the second one is placed 8 cm from the edge while the third one is at 11.5 cm allowing for comfortable hand access. The bag is made from black corduroy as requested, with silver-toned fittings (buckles and rivets) and a light, flexible waterproof lining in the first compartment. The zippers open from front to back when worn on the left side, as per your preference, and all three function smoothly without any resistance.
The strap is made from matching corduroy, is adjustable, measures under 4 cm in width, and is fitted with a click fastener at the belly. It is secured with two rectangular buckles, offering both stability and flexibility.
I inspected the finishing closely: the stitching is neat and consistent throughout, with no loose threads or uneven edges. The overall shape of the bag matches the ergonomic silhouette shown in your sketch, and the black zippers, balanced rivet placements, and clean sewing lines result in a visually cohesive and well-constructed piece.
Photos have been included for your review. Kindly take a look and let us know if you’re happy with the outcome so we can proceed with shipping.
Best regards,
Vicky Achieng
Hi Vicky, thanks for the great news!
Amos has also shown me pictures before and I immediately assumed that everything would fit. Please send the bag to me now, I will send you the finalization.
Many thanks for your efforts and all the best for the future! Best regards, Tanja Scheler (Automatic translation)
The Finished Unique Piece – Individually Handmade
Reference: ON-AI-000073D-79752
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Price | |
|---|---|
| Cost of material |
5.25
|
| Cost of labour |
7.49
|
| Cost of packaging |
1.87
|
| Cost of delivery to local operations manager |
2.25
|
| Subtotal – payout to artisan |
16.86
|
| Customer acquisition costs (advertising etc.) |
1.69
|
| Handling fee Urban Change Lab |
1.69
|
| Shipping costs from Kenya to Germany* |
25.31
|
| VAT (Germany)* |
3.85
|
| Total |
54.2
|
*Shipping costs and VAT vary depending on your location.
Each price shown is based on a unique, custom request. Final prices may vary depending on materials, effort, and delivery location.
