Frequently asked questions

The questions and doubts people share with me most often.

“It’s too expensive”

Each piece is unique: imagined and handcrafted in my studio in France.
The price reflects the technical skill, premium materials, and the uniqueness of an artwork designed to last and keep its aesthetic strength. A true favorite like this is cherished for years.

“I can’t afford it”

As standard, payment is already split into 3.
And if that's still tight, we can spread it out further: let's talk.

“I can’t picture it / I don’t know what I want”

I can send samples, provide sketches or diagrams, and discuss via video call or at the studio to clarify your wishes.
Together we refine every detail until we find the shape, material, and colors that truly reflect you.

“I’m afraid it won’t be ready in time for an event”

Handmade work takes time: allow 4 to 10 weeks depending on the project. But if you plan far enough ahead, we'll make sure it's ready for the big day.
I can adjust the schedule, suggest a design that fits your deadline, and keep you informed at every step.

“What if I’m disappointed? / I’ve had a bad experience before”

Every project is approved step by step with a detailed quote, photos, and regular updates.
Nothing is started without your agreement, ensuring a result that meets your expectations.

“I’m afraid to cut into a sentimental fabric. What if I regret it?”

It’s natural to feel that hesitation. We work together to honor your story.
Each step is validated (photos, video call), and nothing is irreversible until you give the green light.

“Your style is very distinctive. Will it really feel like mine?”

My creative world guides my eye, but your aesthetic takes priority.
I put my know-how at the service of your story, not the other way around.

Is there a right time to start, or can I take as long as I need?

There's no good or bad time, only your own.

For a babywearing wrap, it can be transformed as soon as babywearing ends, or much later, once you've missed it enough to want to see it in a new form. For a loved one's clothing, there's no rush either: some people contact me a few weeks after a bereavement, others several years later. Take whatever time you need, I'll be here when you're ready.

Can my fabric really be transformed?

Most materials (leather, wool, babywearing wraps, a loved one's clothing, sports jerseys or activewear, baby clothes and comfort toys, a wedding dress or suit…) can be reused.
During the call, I'll clearly tell you what's feasible, or not.

What if my fabric is damaged?

That’s common, and most of the time it’s not a problem.
We select the usable areas and I complete with premium materials to ensure strength and durability.

What if I have no idea what model I want?

No worries! I don’t lack imagination, or experience...
I guide you with questions and will suggest several visual directions (photos, videos, mockups).

How much fabric do I need to provide?

It depends entirely on the piece you choose, but here are some concrete reference points:

• Pocket mirror (Ocebo'): a 6×6 cm piece is enough;
• Coin purse, wallet: roughly 20×20 cm to 40×30 cm depending on the model;
• Clutch, compact crossbody: approximately 40×40 cm to 60×60 cm;
• Medium-sized bag: from 50×80 cm upwards, depending on the silhouette;
• Slippers (size EU 38): 21×60 cm for the low version, 55×92 cm for the ankle version;
• Bomber jacket (size EU 38): 1.1 m × width (65 cm min) without sleeves, 2.2 m with.

A question I often hear about newborns: is a onesie or a small square of baby clothing enough? Yes, more than enough for a small piece (Ocebo', coin purse); for a larger bag, it's completed with a compatible fabric, always with your approval. There's also the Signature finish from the Essentials range, which makes it possible to use several small pieces together.
And of course, several fabrics can be combined too (the same person's clothes from different periods, or several siblings' garments, for example).

The good news: I also work with small pieces. If your fabric is on the tight side, certain finishes allow me to cut in free or geometric shapes and waste almost nothing. We work it out together during the discovery call, before any decisions are made.

And if you're not sure exactly how much fabric you have? Just take a photo, bring it to our first chat, and we'll figure out what's possible.

Are technical fabrics (sport, dance, running) as sturdy as a classic fabric once transformed?

It depends on the fabric, but in most cases, yes. The stretch and fineness of some of these materials (lycra, softshell or technical jersey, for example) are actually an asset for Kinusaiga panels, and conversely, they're compensated for very well in leatherwork with reinforcements (interfacing, lining), just like any other delicate textile. These fabrics also tend to have excellent resistance to abrasion and friction, which is a real plus for bags and wallets.

We talk it through together during the discovery call.

What kinds of objects can you create, beyond bags and wallets?

Probably more than you'd imagine!

Here's what I can make from your sentimental fabrics:

Leather goods: backpack, crossbody, belt bag, handbag, sling bag, travel bag, tote, clutch, pouch, coin purse, wallet...

Accessories: pocket mirror (Ocebo'), babywearing mirror (Coucou Hibou), tie...

Textile/clothing: bomber jacket (child or adult), low slippers or ankle booties (sizes EU 25 to 47)...

Textile art: Kinusaiga panel, a Japanese craft technique, very graphic, which transforms your fabrics into a framed wall piece.

If you have an idea that's not on this list, bring it up anyway. I haven't yet met a request I couldn't find some way to approach. And if I genuinely can't make it work, I'll tell you honestly from our very first conversation.

Can I combine fabrics from different people in the same piece?

Absolutely, and it can be extraordinarily beautiful.

Blending your grandfather's jacket with your grandmother's scarf in one bag, weaving together fabrics from three generations in a clutch... these assemblages carry something powerfully symbolic, and they often produce visually rich and unexpected results.

The only constraints are technical: the fabrics need to be compatible with each other (durability, thickness, structure), and each piece needs to be large enough for the planned cuts. But by playing with finishes (flat panels, patchwork, geometric or organic shapes), we can often work with small pieces and still create something coherent.

We take stock together during the discovery call, looking at your fabrics and imagining the possibilities. Bring everything you have!

Can I transform the clothes of a loved one who has passed away, as part of grieving?

Yes, and these are among the most deeply moving projects I get to work on.

Your father's jacket, your grandmother's coat, the jumper you can't bring yourself to give away because it still smells a little like her... These fabrics carry something irreplaceable. Transforming them into an everyday object means giving them life again without erasing them, and for many people, this is part of the grieving process itself: the memory is no longer folded away in a drawer, it's worn, or displayed.

I approach these projects with particular care: we take time to talk about the person, the story behind the fabric, what you want to preserve and how. The finished piece isn't just a bag: it's an object that continues to bear witness.

And if several family members each want a keepsake made from the same garment? That's possible too. One piece of fabric can give birth to several different pieces, for several different people. We look at what the material can offer, together, without wasting any of it.

I'm clearing out a loved one's home, or passing on family belongings: is this something you can help with too?

Yes, absolutely. This is often a difficult moment: you don't want to throw everything away, but you can't keep it all either, and it's not always obvious what's worth transforming.

To sort through it, we look together at what has the most sentimental value or technical potential (sturdiness, thickness), with photos if that helps. You can send me a selection or bring everything you've found, and we move forward step by step during the discovery call.

Do you offer support for a wedding, before, during or after the ceremony?

Yes, a wedding is a moment I can support at several stages.

Before or during the ceremony, we can create a fashion or décor piece carrying the presence of an absent or deceased parent, or matching pieces where each partner wears a little of the other's fabric. Afterwards, the dress or suit can become a bag, a wallet or, if you'd rather have something to display than to wear, a Kinusaiga panel: the wedding fabrics take the shape of a wall piece, to keep on display in your home rather than folded away in a garment bag.

Can I order a bespoke transformation as a gift for someone?

Yes, and it's one of the most thoughtful gifts I've seen people give.

Offering someone a piece made from a fabric that belongs to them (or that belonged to a loved one) is a rare and deeply considered gesture. It takes a little organisation, but it's entirely doable.

A few practical points:

• You contact me and manage the whole project: the recipient doesn't need to be involved if you want to keep the surprise;
• You'll need to get hold of the fabric discreetly;
• I can help you choose the right model if you're unsure what would suit the person best;
• A thoughtful gift wrap can be arranged on request.

Tell me about your idea during a discovery call, and together we'll imagine something truly unforgettable.

Can I follow the making of my piece as it happens?

You get to choose, and it's a genuine decision to make at the start of the project.

Full updates with photos: I send you photos and sometimes videos at each key stage: cutting, assembly, finishing. You see your fabric come to life step by step. Some people love this. Others find it only makes the waiting harder!

Total surprise: I work away quietly, you see nothing until you open the parcel. For those who want the sense of wonder to be fully intact, right through to the last moment.

Something in between works too: a message after the cutting stage, a photo mid-way, then the surprise finale.

Whatever you choose, one thing I promise: if something along the way needs your input (a motif placement decision, an unexpected colour choice), I'll reach out. You will never be faced with a fait accompli on anything that matters.

What happens to my fabric during and after the transformation?

Your fabric is precious, I know that, and I treat it accordingly.

During the transformation, I only use what's needed for the piece we agreed on. Offcuts come back to you. I always tuck them into your return parcel, unless you tell me to keep or dispose of them.

In practice:

• You send me your fabric (the whole garment, or the section you want transformed);
• I work from your piece, making the most of every centimetre in a thoughtful way;
• Any remaining offcuts travel back home with your finished creation.

If your fabric is very small or choices need to be made (where to position a motif, which section to prioritise), we talk it through before any cutting happens. Nothing is cut without prior agreement.

What's the difference between 'Essentials' and fully bespoke?

Both options use your fabric, benefit from the same care, and come with the same level of support. The difference is the starting point.

The Essentials
These are tried-and-tested pre-designed models (crossbody, coin purse, tote, slippers...) that I personalise with your materials. The silhouette is set; you choose the textiles, colours, and finishes. Perfect if you don't have a specific shape in mind yet, or if you want to keep a tighter rein on your budget. The result is still unique, because your fabrics are.

Fully bespoke
Everything is open: the shape, size, carry style, pockets, materials, threads, hardware... You can come with an existing pattern, a sketch, an inspiration photo, or just a vague idea to explore together. It's the most open-ended option, and therefore the most personal.

In both cases, we start with a discovery call so I can understand your fabric, your needs, and your vision. And in both cases, almost anything is possible.

Is it made to order or in stock?

Always made to order, there's no stock. Each piece is crafted after your order, in the materials you choose (yours or mine). The usual lead time is 4 to 6 weeks in total depending on the complexity of the design.

What are the finishes?

For leatherwork designs, the exterior of your piece is cut according to one of three finishes, each giving a distinct personality to your sentimental fabric:

• Signature: organic, fun and full of life. The fabric pieces are cut in free shapes inspired by my visual identity. Perfect for small scraps, or for a piece that sparkles.
• Plénitude: generous, rounded patches. The fabric fills the space with softness and serenity, for an elegant, calming result.
• Contradictions: intermediate, straighter, more geometric shapes, deliberately playing against the curves of the bag or wallet. An intentional graphic tension.

What materials do you work with?

Your sentimental textile or leather is always at the heart of the project. For the rest, it depends on the type of piece.

For leather goods:

• Exterior (beyond the fabric you provide): by default salvaged leather (cowhide, lambskin, goat, pig…); optionally: certified organic cotton canvas, cork on 100% cotton backing, Nisiar (grape marc “leather”)…
• Lining: 100% cotton poplin, cretonne or satin (organic where possible), 100% linen canvas, wool or wool-silk blend…
• Interfacings (by design): certified organic cotton batting, Decovil Light or Heavy, Texon, Jeffitex…
• Hardware: metal only (gold, chrome, gunmetal, matte black…). Special colours available on request (extra cost and lead time).
• Handles & straps: leather, cotton or polycotton plain strap, your own fabric (if enough quantity), single-material by default. Bi-colour/bi-material available as an option.

For textile panels:

• Backing: 30mm polystyrene foam, double-sided adhesive;
• Frames: wood, glass, plastic, depending on what I find or what you provide, hung by default, freestanding as an option;
• Accents: poplin, cretonne, satin, wool, canvas... in cotton, linen, wool, silk, etc.

What is the Coucou Hibou babywearing mirror?

Coucou Hibou is a handmade leather portable mirror, designed specifically for people who carry their baby in a wrap or baby carrier.

It's there to help you see your baby without craning your neck: check that they're sleeping, that their hat is still on, that the wrap is correctly installed... even when you're on your own, even when your phone has run out of battery.

It's made in my studio with:

• a shatterproof acrylic mirror (safe around babies);
• a body in reclaimed leather, drawn and laser-cut by me;
• a sentimental fabric of your choice on the back (your babywearing wrap, or a piece from my stock).

Optional extras: a Heimess dummy clip (local wood, certified to nursery safety standards) and/or a protective fabric pouch.

And after babywearing comes to an end, it can have a second life: I offer to transform it into a pocket mirror (Ocebo'), so it keeps travelling with you in a new form.

Find out more about the Coucou Hibou

What's the difference between the Coucou Hibou and the Ocebo'?

Both are handmade leather mirrors, personalised with a sentimental fabric, but they serve different purposes.

The Coucou Hibou is designed for babywearing: a large flat mirror, intended to be clipped to a wrap strap or carrier using a dummy clip (optional). Sized to give you an easy glance at your baby. From €55.

The Ocebo' is a pocket mirror, more compact (78×65 mm), with a pivoting leather protection flap, designed to slip into a bag or pocket without the risk of scratches. New, it's from €55. It's also the transformation I offer when babywearing ends: the Coucou Hibou takes on a new life as an Ocebo' for €17.

In short: the Coucou Hibou is for parents who carry, the Ocebo' is for everyone, everywhere, always.

What does it include?

The price of my creations (original or custom) is the result of a complex calculation that takes into account materials and equipment, labor, accumulated experience, and continuously updated expertise.

For your custom orders, I also factor in the time spent defining your project (emails, chats, sketches, photos, etc.) and keeping you informed of its progress. More than just a product, you will have access to a fully personalized experience throughout the process.

Additionally, all my bags come with a protective pouch made of 100% organic cotton satin or 100% linen fabric, closed with a 100% organic cotton cord, that I custom-make specifically for each bag.

How does payment work?

As standard, payment is split into 3:

• 40% when you order, as a non-refundable deposit;
• 30% when I start working;
• 30% when it ships, for the balance.

You can pay by bank transfer (preferred), card or PayPal.
Need to spread it out further? That's possible, let's talk.

How much fabric do you need?

Far less than you think. On a small format, a few pieces are enough, and they can come from different parts of the garment. It's the drawing that decides, not the surface area. And if there isn't enough, I have fabrics to fill in. Send me a photo and I'll tell you.

What exactly do you cut?

Only what's needed for the zones of the drawing, with a little margin: the excess disappears into the groove, and some is needed to cover the top of the edges. Everything else comes back to you. And nothing is cut before you've approved the drawing and signed the quote.

Is there a frame?

By default, there isn't one.
With the kit or my “ready-to-hang” pieces, your picture is finished along the edges with a ribbon and hangs by the plate on its back: it arrives ready to go on the wall.

If you feel like framing it anyway, you can use any shop-bought frame in the right size. I have references if you need them.

With bespoke, two more options are open to you:
- with a frame you're attached to, which becomes the starting point of your project;
- with one of my vintage thrifted frames, in all styles and sizes.

How do I look after it?

A wipe with a cloth now and then, and that's about all there is to do. As with any textile, avoid hanging it in direct sunlight.

What if I don't like the result?

You approve the drawing before I touch anything, and you can follow along in photos while I work. That said, once the fabric is inlaid, there's no going back: that's why we take our time beforehand.

How do you ship?

Delivery of your order is an essential part of my customer service. I strive to provide you with a reliable, fast, and convenient delivery experience, so you can quickly enjoy your purchases.

Once your order is placed, I ensure that your items are carefully packaged and prepared for shipping. I choose the most suitable packaging options to protect your products during transportation.
My pieces are thoughtfully wrapped and shipped in upcycled cardboard boxes (read more).

Each bag is protected by its custom-made satin drawstring pouch, made from 100% organic cotton satin or 100% linen fabric, and closed with a 100% organic cotton cord, that I custom-make specifically for each bag.
Wallets and other small items are wrapped in tissue paper, either new (locally and sustainably produced) or recycled depending on their size.

I offer free shipping to France, except for Kinusaiga items (see below). For all other destinations, I aim to maintain competitive and transparent shipping costs. Shipping fees are calculated based on the weight, size of your package, and the destination to provide you with the fairest pricing possible.

Kinusaiga items (kits and artworks) have their own rule: within mainland France and Monaco, shipping starts from €4.90 depending on weight; to the French overseas territories, standard Colissimo rates apply. They don't go further on their own, but with a bag or a wallet they travel at no extra cost, wherever I ship leather goods.

Whether it's standard, express, or international delivery, I work with reliable carriers (Colissimo or Mondial Relay) to ensure the delivery of your package within the estimated timeframes, with tracking and insurance. If you wish to use other shipping providers like FedEx or UPS, please contact me at hello@raconteuse-histoires-textiles.fr or by phone at +33(0)661356222 so I can calculate a cost estimate for you.

Do you ship internationally?

I ship to France and outside the European Union. Other European Union countries are not served at the moment.
If your country is eligible but does not appear in the list, please contact me at hello@raconteuse-histoires-textiles.fr or by phone at +33(0)661356222. With your complete details, I will provide you with a final invoice that you can then pay by bank transfer or credit card.

How can I track my order?

You will receive an email upon shipment containing the tracking number and a link. Of course, you can contact me at any time if you have questions.

How do I take care of my product?

Care instructions are provided on the “identity card” included with each piece. In general, it is recommended to avoid machine washing bags and wallets and limit cleaning to spot cleaning, which will vary depending on the material involved (leather, cork, faux leather, fabric, etc.).
For a Kinusaiga picture, a wipe with a cloth now and then is enough, and avoid hanging it in direct sunlight.

You can contact me via email at hello@raconteuse-histoires-textiles.fr or by phone at +33(0)661356222 if you have any doubts or need clarification on a specific piece.

Is there a warranty on the creations?

All my creations are covered by a legal warranty against hidden defects and a legal warranty of conformity, both of which last for 2 years. All the details can be found in the Terms and Conditions.

Do you offer a bag and accessory maintenance/repair service?

This service is offered on request only. Please contact me via email at hello@raconteuse-histoires-textiles.fr or by phone at +33(0)661356222.

You can send me pieces I made or equivalent items (at your expense) for an assessment of repair/maintenance costs. Once the quote is accepted, I will proceed with the chosen actions and then return your item(s) to you (the shipping costs will be detailed in the quote). If you decline the quote, you will have to organize the return, at your expense.