Ever wondered what a typical week looks like when you run a one-woman handmade business? Let’s just say it’s equal parts creativity, chaos, and cup-of-tea-fuelled determination. From stitching and SEO to packing and photography, this is the behind-the-scenes reality at Watership Down Crafts.
I spend each week creating one-of-a-kind handmade make-up bags, soft embroidered cushions, unique tote bags made from rescued fabrics, and quirky little notebook covers. Here’s what goes into it all.
Monday: Getting Started
I begin with customer emails, order updates, and messages from other makers. I used to dread the admin side of things, but now it feels like a nice little reset to start the week. Plus, it’s a good excuse to sit down with a strong cuppa before the sewing machine starts whirring.
Designing New Products
Once the inbox is under control (or at least ignored for now), I dive into planning. That might mean sketching a new tote bag, testing out a notebook cover design, or refining my zipped pouch templates so they’re just right. Every item starts with a simple idea and usually ends with thread all over the floor.
Midweek SEO and Website Work
Not the glamorous side of the job, but absolutely essential. I spend time updating product descriptions, adding alt tags to images, and tweaking blog posts so Google can actually find what I’m making. It’s a steep learning curve, but I’ve come to enjoy the puzzle of it all. SEO might not be as satisfying as topstitching, but it’s just as important.
Product Photography (With Bonus Cat Cameo)
Once new items are finished, I set up a photo shoot using whatever space has decent light. That usually means chasing the sun around the house and removing a cat from the backdrop. Whether it’s a bright make-up bag, a one-of-a-kind tote, or a new batch of embroidered cushions, each photo has to show off the detail without looking too staged.
Editing and Uploading
Then it’s on to Canva for editing — cropping, brightening, resizing, and making sure the images reflect the real colours and textures. Once edited, I upload everything to the website and schedule social posts for the week. It’s fiddly work, but it makes all the difference.
Back to the Sewing Table
With the admin and photo work out of the way, I can finally settle back into sewing. This week, I’ve been making a new batch of zipped pouches, a couple of one-of-a-kind tote bags, and a fresh run of notebook covers in woodland prints. Everything is stitched, pressed, and finished by hand — no shortcuts.
Writing Descriptions and Blog Posts
Once a product is live, it needs a proper write-up. I write every description myself, using clear, helpful language that lets customers know exactly what they’re getting. I also update my blog with weekly posts (like this one), sharing what’s new, what’s in progress, and what’s coming next.
Choosing Fabric (And Changing My Mind)
I spend a surprising amount of time just choosing fabric. It’s never just a case of “grab and sew.” I mix vintage swatches, offcuts, and rescued pieces until the right combination jumps out at me. Sometimes I get it right first time. Sometimes I change the lining four times and then go back to the first one.
Packing Orders and Feeling Grateful
As the week wraps up, I package up any orders ready to head out the door. Every item is wrapped in tissue, tied neatly, and includes a handwritten thank-you. I’ll never get tired of hearing that Shopify cha-ching or seeing a customer photo pop up with one of my pieces in its new home.
Want to See the Results?
Everything I make is stitched from rescued fabric and made to last. You’ll find useful and characterful pieces like handmade make-up bags, unique tote bags, and the occasional embroidered notebook cover — all made by hand, right here in my sewing room.
Thank you for following along. Whether you’re here as a customer, crafter, or just curious — it means more than you know.