Working on new stuff.

This week I'm working on a bunch of new stuff. Right now I am  in the sample stage, but I can tell you that for this next round of designs I will be keeping it really simple. Limited hardware, clean lines, organic and recycled fabrics, soft leather and thoughtful details. This season I will also be adding a few new pieces, headbands and leather jewelry.

Louis is sporting a sample of a cute bow headband that will eventually be made of recycled leather. The headband will be for ladies, not dogs. Lou is just more in a model mood then I am today.

Need a lightly used notebook?

Moleskin Notebooks.

I don't know what it is, but every time I see these in a store I have an uncontrollable desire to buy one, even though I have at least six of them stashed around my apartment and studio. 

I always feel like "this is the one that will inspire me to become an organized person".

Send me your address if you want one and don't mind a few missing pages. It gives the book a little history.

Small versions of regular things.

Sometimes I like to make mini versions of things. While staying in Victoria BC I was a regular at "Miniature World".

Today I made a mini clutch out of salvaged leather.

Handbags = Currency. In my world.

Last week end I took part in a designers sample sale. The place was full of talented Canadian designers with beautiful clothes I could not afford. Luckily at the end of the week end I traded two of my bags for a few pieces.  One of them was this lovely silk top from CARRIE. I love it. If only I could pay my landlord in purses.

More shoes I like but rarely wear.

I can't believe I am openly showing semi close ups of my toes, they are really the least favorite part of me. It's all for the shoes.

The 500sq feet where I spend most of my time

I love pretty shoes, so Im showing them off.

Like many MANY women out there I have a soft spot for pretty shoes. I love shopping for them, bringing them home and lining them up neatly on my shelf. Sadly, that is where they usually stay, in my bedroom, on my shelf. I dont really live in a high heel friendly world. My day generally consists of walking a dog, running to the post office with a cart full of shipments, standing at a counter cutting, and sitting at an industrial sewing machine. Not easy things to do with delicate shoes. So I have decided to at least start show them off here.

NOTE: Please ignore the hideous tattoo. It's just a little something I thought was cool when I was 15 years old.

A few ladies that are loving CHA CHA

Designer Sample Sale this weekend!!

Check out this great event CHA CHA is part of this weekend. If you are in Toronto come by and say hi!

A long great week end.

Just waking up after working a million hours backstage at the Much Music Video awards

this weekend. So many stories to tell, to tired to type right now. Im taking today off but I will be sure to fill you in on all the lovely celebs I met tomorrow.

Better weather, new handbags and long walks.

It is finally warm here in Toronto. I feel like I have been waiting FOREVER!!!

This weekend I took advantage of it and enjoyed a long walk with Lou, envied my neighbors ability to grow the most beautiful flowers and casually worked on a new bag. I am re-working the "Jenny" style for fall. Of course I need to test out the sample to make sure it passes all the tests, so the new bag came out or a walk with Louis and I. Here are a few pictures of our Sunday morning.

New Side Project

Im working out the details of a little charity event that involves, kids, writing/drawing and cha cha pencil cases. The leather used in these is the beautiful. It hasn't been dyed, its soft, durable and changes colour as you use it. I have been using mine as a little wallet. I like it. 

Pretty Things.

I made new things, check them out at chachalifestyle.com.

I found some cash.

Yesterday, I forced my lazy self to the bank machine so I could meet my brother and lend him some money. On my walk back I found a $50 bill on the sidewalk! I looked around, no people. I checked again to make sure I wasn't on one of those hidden camera shows, nothing.

Now I feel like I should do something good with it.

Put it towards these comfy shoes that I want, give it to the slightly "crazy" guy I buy coffee for on my way to the studio most days? Take a friend out for lunch?

I feel like I have to do something good with free money.

Time FLIES!

I have been busy making a ton of bags for a huge event next month (details to come soon). I have just about finished my quota of 125 bags. That is a personal best for me. I said yes to the project before I knew it was really possible for me to create that many pieces in that short of time. I seem to work better under pressure I guess.

So for the next day or two I will be away from the sewing machine and attached to my computer, updating sites,  working out the details of an upcoming charity event, moving somethings around my Etsy store, adding new pieces, pictures and stories. I guess its some much needed spring cleaning!

Melissa-Must have travel companion.

There was only one piece of this leather available, so I wanted to make a special piece with it, something that will last a long time.

I was drawn tho this leather because it looks a little worked in, loved. To be honest, the first thing it reminded me of was an episode of Sex and the City, the episode where Carrie first meets Aidan, fakes being a designer so she can get a discount on the great chair... remember???

Check out the details HERE.

New Stella 3-in-1 Shopper- JUST ADDED.

This style has been pretty popular this season. I think people like a bag that serves a few purposes.

Another "Entourage" added.

I just got this new leather in. It's really pretty and will take quite a bit of abuse (for all you rough ladies out there).

Check it out HERE.

This is my Mom.

Wasn't she cute!

I Love Maui.

My time in Maui is almost over, I will be heading back to Toronto tomorrow.

I have had a great time on this beautiful island, I hope to come back one day.

Something about all the fresh air and ocean views been a great source of inspiration. I was trying not to think about work while I was away, but of course I couldn't help it. Im coming home with all kinds of new ideas. Can't wait to get back to the sewing machine!!

Aleshas have been reduced.

I was able to bring down the price of the Alesha style.

Canadian prices HERE

US prices HERE

I quit.

Check out the article featured on Etsy HERE

I know, I'm a nerd about my dog.

I can't help it. I love my four legged man. Today just happens to be my 30th birthday and I am lucky enough to be spending it in Maui. My lovely parents are looking after Louis while I am away and sent me this picture of him this morning. I think it might just be one of my best birthday presents this year. 

New 3-in-1 Leather Shopper added.

I couldn't help myself, I had to make one in blue.

Check it out here.

Just added to CHA CHA Samples

Check it out here.

One of kind bag added.

I only had enough leather to make one bag in this yummy colour.  Only one in the world. I love the rugged sort of look of this leather.

Free Shipping at chachalifestyle.com

Check it out HERE.

Hot off the sewing machine.

Alesha in Turquoise, a great colour for summer. Only two made.

Shop in CAN $$ HERE.

Shop in US $$ HERE.

Not a handbag, but worth mentioning.

Reading used to be a huge pastime of mine but over the last couple of years I can kind of fell out of the habit and replaced it with working. While on vacation a couple of weeks ago I did a ton of reading. One of the books that I read and really like was called Q & A by Vikas Swarup (known now as Slum Dog Millionaire). I haven't seen the movie yet but the book was great. It is told in a way that makes it like a bunch of short stories tied into one that all relate in the end. I highly recommend it. I'm now looking for my next book, I would love some suggestions.!!

Pieces added to CHA CHA Samples

Just added a couple discount pieces, check it out HERE.

Entourage City Tote in CANVAS

I'm trying something new. If you have visited this blog before you already know that leather is my medium of choice, but today I wanted to try something in canvas. Canvas is a great fabric, it's soft, it's forgiving and it's washable. I chose one of my favorite styles to duplicate in canvas, "Entourage City Tote".

Note to Vegans: I was trying to come up with a style that was also vegan friendly, but after I was all finished with sewing I realized I had sewn my leather CHA CHA patch inside. Old habits are hard to break. So this bag is 99% leather free.

Would you want to make a Handbag??

Hope everyone had a great long week end. I was happy to have a few days off to spend with friends and family but I am looking forward to getting back into the studio tomorrow.

Lately I have considered offering a "Make your own handbag" workshop where you could learn the basics of handbag making and take home your very own handmade bag. Please take a second to answer this weeks poll question so I can find out what would work for most people.

Thanks! 

Relaxed and ready to sew.

I escaped from Toronto for a few days in search of some sun. I found it in Miami. All day I read, swam, ate, and went to bed early. Loved it.

As always, while away I had flood of new ideas. Check back over the next few weeks.

Fresh Today

I'm going away next week so I was inspired to create something travel related. I just made these great carry on bags. They are huge have 8 pockets inside and out. Could be used as luggage, a diaper bag, gym bag or what ever you need lots of room and pockets for. They are available in brown and blue.

I will have them up in both shops soon.

Turquoise Moccasin Slippers

I have been wearing the pair I made for myself (someone has to try the new stuff out) and they are really comfortable.

Pretty Diaper Bags

Attention all Mothers!!

I am in the process of creating a diaper bag. I have had quite a few women contact me over the past year expressing their frustration with the selection of cartoon themed bags they have to chose from. So I am making something pretty from leather that can be used as a carry on or gym bag long after your baby is out of diapers. I have purchased a few  cheaper diapers bags to see what kind of pockets and compartments you guys need but would love some input from Mothers.

So ladies, let me know what features you love about your diaper bag or would love to see in a new one. 

THANKS!!

Freestyle Sunday

Sunday is usually my favorite day of the week. I go out for brunch then head into work to create some of the ideas I have had floating around my head the previous week. Something about working on Sundays seems relaxing to me. I think because its the week end, I feel like Im working because I want to and not because I have to (even if I really do). To be honest, todays handbag design was all about me. In a few weeks I am off to my home away from home, Miami and I wanted something light and summery.

Louis- Handbag Security

Employee of the month, 24 months running; Louis has been promoted to handbag security. No one is slipping a handbag by this guy....... unless they have some bacon to share.

Made a little something on this Sunday afternoon.

I have been using the "Toya" style handbag recently and have been really liking it despite the fact that I didn't think I liked using bags with the extra long strap. Turns out its pretty practical. So I made one in this super soft shitake colour leather. Check it out here for US $$. Check here for CAN $$

My online shop is back to running smooth. I will be adding new bags all day. chachalifestyle.com Please note that all prices are in Canadian $$ My shop on ETSY is in US $$

Meet the newest additions to the CHA CHA family

After much, drafting, cutting, sewing, and picture taking, I introduce the spring/summer ladies. I'm having a few technical difficulties at chachalifestyle.com so please check out the new line HERE on ETSY. I really enjoyed making every single bag this season. Look out tomorrow for details on the new line, my inspirations, and an upcoming handbag giveaway. For now, I need to catch up on some sleep! Hope you like them!

Another new one; Toya

Heart Wristlet- Purple

Stella 3in1 Style Bag.

Check it out.

Heart Wristlet- Brown

CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Alesha-Shoulder Bag

Available March 2nd at chachalifestyle.com or now at chacha2.etsy.com

Entourage City Tote.

Preview in my Etsy shop. More colours to come.

Mi Mi- Make Up Pouch.

I live in Toronto, in a teeny tiny apartment, with a teeny tiny bathroom. I don't have counter space or even any drawers to hide my make up so I have been using a travel case, a tired and beat up old travel case. I decided to make one that I would be happy to look at every morning. So I created Mi Mi. Also comes in black. Available March 2nd at chachalifestyle.com.

New Bags March 2nd

New handbags in one more week!!

Coming March 2nd.

Entourage-City Tote

I just finished up the samples for this seasons "Entourage" shoulder bag. This seasons version will be a little smaller, longer braided straps and will have a slightly different body shape. I have been using the sample for a day now (someone has to try it out!) and Im really liking it. Check out the final version March 2nd at chachalifestyle.com.

2 different websites, 2 different currencies

Lately I have been getting emails about the price difference in both my shops. For quite a while prices were the same on both sites because the Canadian and American dollar were at par, that is not the case anymore. Prices in my ETSY shop are in American dollars since it is an American based site and prices at chachalifestyle.com are in Canadian dollars. I try and keep up with the fluctuation of the dollar to keep the cost of each product the same no matter what site you purchase from. If anyone has questions please feel free to email at anytime, lori@chachalifestyle.com. Thanks!

A few more pictures...

I finally got my camera back tonight, as well as a great lesson on how to use my camera better. Note to anyone starting and online shop: Purchase the best quality camera you can afford and learn how to use it properly. Pictures are everything when selling your goods online. Here are a couple of pictures of just a few of the pieces I finished up today. The last one is a picture of my favorite I.T guy hard at work. Scott fixes my phones, computers, cameras anything technically related. I swear he has all the answers. If anyone in the Toronto area needs some help let me know and I will hook you up with Scott's info.

The day many ladies have been waiting for....

Entourage in blueberry is on sale. Only 2 left. Shop here for prices in Canadian Dollars. or Here for American dollars.

A Few Previews

So I have one more week to finish the whole line and in regular deadline fashion, my sewing machine broke down, on a long week end. I was looking forward to working hard all week end and actually being a head of schedule for one but instead, I spent a lot of quality time with my couch, but what can you do, I'm trying not to stress about the things I can't control. I wanted to take a few pictures to show you some of the new pieces, my camera is in the shop right now so I am relying on my camera phone till tomorrow. Pictured here is a few of the new clutches, large envelope style bags with cut out details on the flap. All bags have a snap closure under the flap and 2 inside pockets. After the clutches is a brand new style, a large shoulder bag that is designed to be carried in 3 different way, versatility is key. Details (and better pictures) to come soon!!

Belt Sale

Check it out HERE.

A few more great deals at CHA CHA SAMPLES

Check it out at CHA CHA SAMPLES.

One More Week of Sewing

For the past week or so I have been my own personal sweat shop. Working crazy hours and not taking enough breaks, but it will be all worth it in the end. After a few years of doing this I have found some methods that make the work faster and little less tedious. Having said that, the work I am doing now doesn't require a lot of thought, I have spent many days now just daydreaming about a variety of random things (mostly summer) so if anyone is in the area, feel free to stop by and entertain me for a while. In just over a week I have to have all my bags finished so that they will be ready for a photo shoot. I am fortunate enough to have an arsenal of beautiful friends who I have chosen to be my models. I can't wait, I know they will wear the new Cha Cha bags well. Above is a couple of pictures of some keys tools I use to make every bag, with out them Cha Cha handbags would not be possible. I will be posting a few pics of some of the new styles and colours this week. Have a great day!

Check Out This Deal.

Only 1 Entourage in green left, in the whole world. A new, slightly revised version of Entourage will be available for Spring so if you like this style now is your chance! $395 CAN $325 US Shop: chachalifestyle.com chacha.etsy.com

Day 938 at Cha Cha.

I don't really know how many days I have been doing this, but 938 could be right. So I have managed to get a little behind with the Spring collection, but it's a cold winter here in Toronto so I don't mind working a 100 hours a day, it keeps me warm. Step One: Day dream about some new styles, turn them into patterns. Step Two: After choosing leathers, fabrics, colours I do ALOT of tracing and cutting. This is the step I am at now. My big working table makes this part of the job pretty pain free. When I first started cha cha I was living in a bachelor apartment, I had a board I could but on top of my bed and I would work off that. Later I could hide the board under my bed. This makes me LOVE my big table even more. My dogs name is Louis, I just have to throw in a picture of him at work every now and then, he is employee of the month.

chachalifestyle.com

Cha Cha

These Ladies Need Some Love.

Added a couple new bags to samples. Check it out.

New Samples, New Discounts

Just added a few new things to cha cha samples. Check it out.

New Posts Starting in ONE Week

Hope everyone is keeping warm! Starting next week I will be posting behind the scenes pictures and info on the development of the new line, up coming events and maybe even a soup recipe or two. I know, I know, soup and handbags really don't mix but that is all I have been making since it's been so cold so I might share a few of my favorites. Till then have a great week! Lori cha cha

The First Newsletter of 2009!!

Check it out!

Happy New Year!

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. I took almost 2 weeks off from sewing and it feels like forever! I have a HUGE "to do list" for 2009 and I cant wait to get started. I have a few new things coming up this week, I just need a day or two to catch up on orders and get back into my routine. Keep you posted. Im excited for 2009!!

These pretty ladies need homes....

Check it out HERE.

Happy Holidays from CHA CHA!!!

Hope everyone has a happy and safe holiday season. I have so many ideas for 2009, cant wait to share them with you. Thanks a million for your continued support, see you next year!!

New Today.

Check it out here.

Maria

I started this bag with a totally different look in mind. Initially I wanted to make a really simple bag, but I couldn't resist some extra detail. I think this is one of my most comfortable bags so far. Details HERE.

New Small Jennys

This soft yet durable leather makes this cute bag all year around. Special Holiday price HERE.

Nana

Brand new today. Check her out at cha cha.

New Bag Added

Only one of these pretty ladies made. Check her out at cha cha samples.

New Bags on the WAY!!!!

I have been on a serious binge the last few days, a sewing handbag binge that is. Check back in a day or two to meet new members of the CHA CHA family!!

Amina- Travel Bag

It's that time a year. Time to pack a bag and go some where for Christmas. Meet Miss Amina Chocolate Syrup Brown. Amina is made of the kind of leather used to make big comfy couches, a couch you find in some great ski chalet in the mountains. I have never been in a ski chalet in the mountains, but I have seen them on TV and they all have those couches. Check it out.

Amina-Big Girl

Brand new travel bag, only 2 made. Check it out.

EVERYTHING UNDER $98!!

Check out the great sale at chachasamples.com

The things you find when you clean up!

Just like most Fridays, Im not really in the mood for a lot of work. So today I thought I would clean the studio, still productive but not to stressful. I ended up finding so many great half finished bags. Bags that had been started but abandoned for what ever reason. So needless to say I didn't get all the cleaning did but I did finish a bunch of bags and Im offering them at all at great prices at chachasamples. This pretty black tote is one example.

This Saturday

I will be taking part in the Christmas "Crafternoon Tea" this Saturday. I will have a few of the pieces from the regular Cha Cha line up but mostly I will have some smaller items, great gifts for the ladies in your life. I will have some make up cases, canvas shoulder bags, small leather goods and so on. The place will be full of other great local artists with all kids of goodies to offer. Check out the flyer for details.

Free Shipping For the Holidays

We are busy getting Christmas orders ready over here at Cha Cha. We all know time are a little tight so to help keep a little more money in your Cha Cha bag we are offering free shipping at all our shops. cha cha on ETSY• chachalifestyle.com (use code FREE SHIP at the Checkout) • Cha Cha Samples

To all my International Ladies

Cha Cha has not forgotten about all my ladies outside of our lovely (cold) city. For those of you who are not in the Toronto area or just cant make it out, use code "weekend" at the checkout at chachalifestyle.com to use the $40 coupon. Valid today until Sunday at 5pm. Have a great day!

Hey Toronto Ladies!

Just a reminder that Maria Serrano Shoes and Cha Cha Handbags will be at the Cha Cha studio this weekend. Saturday and Sunday from 1pm-5pm at 358 Dufferin St. Suite 101 Just south of Queen. Print off this flyer to receive $40 off any purchase over $150 Hope to see you there!

Everyone Needs at Least One Red Accessory

Check it out.

I like LOOKBOOK.nu

I don't remember how or when I stumbled across this website, but I like it. It's a good distraction when I need one. LOOKBOOK.au

Incase you are shopping for gifts.... or yourself.

I have added some new bags to CHA CHA SAMPLES.

Free Shipping

Free shipping for the holiday season at chachalifestyle.com

Brand New Today

Check Details HERE.

Christmas is soon, sort of....

Last Friday, in a pathetic last minute attempt to find a halloween costume I went to the mall. Instead of finding left over cheaply made costumes I found Christmas trees and stockings! Christmas starts much early these days. To kick of the holiday shopping season at cha cha we have reduced the price of "Entourage" from $495 to $425. A great gift for those you REALLY love or as always a great gift for yourself! Available online at chachalifestyle.com or Etsy.com

Entourage Special

Special sale on Entourage in Distressed Leather. Check it out.

Another Mini Entourage.

Check it out.

November Shopping Event.

We are teaming up with Maria Serrano shoes for a second time to host a two day shopping event at the cha cha studio. For all you ladies in the Toronto area, print off this flyer and bring it in to receive a $40 discount.

To all of our American Friends.

There is quite a bit of excitement here North of the boarder for todays American Presidential election, we are all watching closely and sending positive vibes your way. It's a beautiful, almost spring like day here in Toronto, it feels like a day when something good is going to happen!

Entourage-Mini

Check out the cutest new addition to the cha cha family. Click HERE.

Now in Black

Details.

Amina Overnight Bag in Blueberry

Of couse I had to make at least one of these in my favorite colour of the season. Click here for details.

Mail-Cocktail Hour

I call this clutch "Mail", for obvious reasons. I love this style because it's large enough to fit the neccisities for a night out and small enough to fit in your everyday bag. Details.

Amina-Overnight Bag

Details Here.

"Love Birds" Wristlet

I am trying to come up some simple designs that will be great gifts this holiday season but not leave you broke. This piece retails for $47.50 + shipping. Here is of them. Click here for details. If you have any suggestions please feel free to drop me a line.

Don't Forget our Date Tomorrow!

Tomorrow, cha cha handbags and Maria Serrano shoes will be hanging out at the cha cha studio. Come by, and say hello! We will have more shoes and handbags then you can handle. 385 Dufferin St. Suite 101 Toronto ON. Just south of queen on the west side.