How to Custom Order Your Dream Bag (Without the Stress)

Let’s be honest—bespoke can sound a little intimidating. It's something for red carpets, weddings and royalty. You know, other people.

Maybe you imagine a long, complicated process with swatches and fittings and scary price tags. Maybe you hear the word custom, and think it's going to be way out of your reach.

But here’s the thing: at Hidden Gems Oddities, bespoke doesn’t mean complicated or exclusive. It means personal. Fun. Collaborative. It means your bag, your way—made by someone who genuinely cares about getting it just right.

So if you’ve ever thought “custom isn’t for me,” let me show you why it absolutely can be.

What Does “Custom” Mean, Exactly?

When you order a custom bag from me, you’re not ordering a designer label (and paying their mark up) or a mass-produced item. You’re getting something one-of-a-kind, made with your story in mind.

We’ll work together to choose the shape, size, fabric, lining, hardware, and special features that matter most to you. Maybe you have a scrap of a beloved baby wrap you want to turn into something lasting. Maybe you want a subtle nod to your favourite book or fandom. Maybe you just want a bag that feels like you.

Whatever it is—you don’t have to have it all figured out. I’m here to help.

Step-by-step guide

I promise it’s not scary. Here’s how a custom order usually goes:

Step 1: Say Hello!

Start by getting in touch—whether that’s through my contact form, email, or a message on Instagram. Just let me know you’re curious about a custom bag. You don’t need a full plan—just a spark of interest.

Step 2: Tell Me Your Ideas

Maybe you’ve got a favourite colour combo, a wrap scrap you love, or a book quote you want embroidered inside. Or maybe you just know you want “a practical everyday crossbody that’s secretly nerdy.” or "something for a night out that fits my giant phone." That’s perfect. The more you tell me, the more I can help shape the design. At this point, I also ask for a rough pricing window, so I can make sure I'm giving you options that work in your budget.

Step 3: We Dream It Up Together

I’ll suggest bag shapes, fabric placements, features like pockets or zips, and offer lining and hardware options. I can send past examples to help you decide. We go back and forth until it feels right.

Step 4: I Give You a Clear Quote

No hidden costs here. I’ll give you a price based on the design you’ve chosen, and we’ll agree everything before I start cutting fabric. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for—and it’ll be priced fairly, with the care and time your bag deserves.

Step 5: I Sew Your Story

Once we’re all set, I’ll get to work! I’ll keep you updated along the way, and when your bag is ready, I’ll send photos so you can make sure you're happy before I pop it in the post, off to enjoy it's new home. 

Why It’s Worth It

Yes, you could get a cheaper bag from Primark. Or one with a label other people might recognise. But here’s what you miss out on:

• Quality: My bags are made to last, with strong construction, thoughtful features, and careful stitching. I have spent a long time sourcing materials that support marginalised communities, for example prioritising women-owned businesses and stress testing all my materials before I make bags to sell (if a bag can survive me, it can probably survive you!)

• Uniqueness: No one else will ever own your bag. It’s a piece of functional art with meaning behind it.

• Service: You’re not talking to a chatbot—you’re working with a real human who’s invested in making you smile when you open that parcel.

Working with a small maker like me means getting something that’s not just useful, but meaningful. You’re supporting slow fashion, handmade craft, and a little business that genuinely values every order.

Not Sure Where to Start?

That’s totally okay. I’m always happy to chat about options, no pressure at all. Whether you’ve got a crystal-clear vision or just a vague “I like forest green and dragons,” I’d love to hear from you.

You can contact me here, or send me a message on Instagram if that’s more your vibe.

Let’s make something wonderful together.

With love,
Gemma 💜