.jpg)
It started as a passion. Now, it's a full time job. Chris Hughes is living the American dream. He started his own company, and after years of hard work, it's booming.
Chris Hughes says, "It started out in my basement, with just one commercial sewing machine."
But Chris Hughes' passion, and handcrafted bags, started getting noticed.
Malorie Maddox asks, "You've been successful enough, this is how you provide for your family?" Chris says, "Yes, yes it is."
Artifact Bag Co.
www.artifactbags.com
Chris admits, it took time to build his business. It officially became his full time job on December 8th of 2010.
It's hands on from the very first moment he starts the bags.
Chris says, "I'm even the one printing the shipping label, too. Today before we met I stopped at the post office. I had one going to Singapore, one going to Turkey, one going to Canada."
Chris' style is military and utilitarian. His designs are timeless.
Chris also only uses materials made in the USA.
"All of my leather comes from tanneries in the United States."
Chris estimates each bag takes about two hours to make. He doesn't have an exact number on how many he's sold, but it's in the thousands.
Chris says, "Right now, I'm just happy with where I'm at."
He sells three bags online-including his lunch tote. It sells for $65. It's a signature piece that many notice.
Chris says, "I want to develop my brand. I want to introduce more bags. I dream of getting into apparel."
Chris made the apron he wore during the interview. He plans on introducing his own apron line in October.
But for now, his one-man business-is humming along just fine.
Chris says, "In some sense any new development or growth is just gravy on top of what I have."
You can check out Chris's bags at www.artifactbags.com
