This backpack was created using my own original design and cut from genuine cow hide. In order to stitch through the thick leather, I used a hand-powered Patch Machine and Laser-cutter for the engraving of "DMM". 

The design of the bag is composed of three panels; a front, back, and bottom, stitched together on the inside. I added clasps on the outer-sides of the bag to compress and collapse for closure, as well as a magnetic button to secure the flap. The top of the straps fold over themselves through a U-ring and are riveted together. Brass hardware was used to accent the natural pinkish color of the hide. 

The leather wallet was a gift designed and created by me for my husband. It is made using genuine leather and stitched using a patch machine. I designed the wallet on Adobe Illustrator and cut the leather pieces using a laser cutter. 

I have more projects on the horizon, including another smaller backpack and fanny-pack. 

The "Camping Fanny Pack" and "Sport Tote" are of my original design and creation.

 Made for hiking or camping, the fanny pack is canvas and lined using a polyester liner. There are two pockets, the main large pocket for phone and snacks and a smaller front pocket for easy-access keys/chapstick etc. A snap button is used to secure the envelope flap and covered by a hand-stitched patch. The belt is made from webbing and the buckle has a reflector for night safety. 

The sport bag is composed of four panels and stitched using a serger. Also made using canvas, this bag was created for the gym or as a simple overnight bag. There is a single front pocket for easy access for keys/phone. The handles are made from webbing and are riveted to the bag. 

Hand-embroidary has always been something I played around with even as a kid. I cross-stitched, made hoop-art, pillows, and other little projects. Recently I have fallen in love with creating patches. Having a large button and patch collection of my own, I noticed the market is saturated with quick/trendy patches made in bulk. I would see the same ones on multiple websites, cheaply produced and played-out. I wanted to create something more personal, a small one-of-a-kind piece of art that no one else would have.

My "Portrait Patches" started as unique Christmas gifts for friends. I loved how someone's unique essence could be captured using such a simple medium. 

My patches are handmade/embroidered using embroidery thread, canvas, interfacing, and are backed with felt. Currently I am taking orders for custom patches as well as selling stock patches via my Etsy store.

www.etsy.com/shop/DanaMcCausland

Nettle & Thistle was my own Independent Woman's Fashion Line created in 2009-2014. All apparel design and construction were of my own creation. My line was inspired by vintage sentiments and eclecticism. I did not design for fast-fashion trends, but rather staple personal style. 

Nettle & Thistle was carried in various boutiques around Denver as well as my own Etsy store. I participated in markets and trunk shows, selling goods and taking orders to create custom pieces.

I participated in a number of fashion shows such as Denver Fashion Week, Birdcage Studios, AmoreLove, and others. I also created a line for a Spring Fashion Show hosted by Buffalo Exchange.

These photos are some samples of my work from a Fall/Winter Collection shoot. 

The two-piece dress I wore on my wedding was completely of my own original design. The cropped halter-top is constructed from a Chantilly French lace, dyed a light blush. The skirt material is an ivory-colored silk. 

The sewing was done as a gift by a long-time seamstress friend with experience in formal-wear.