1. Can I commission a custom Crystalyn Kae bag?
   Yes! We offer custom handbag and accessory design on a case-by-case basis, with a starting project minimum of $500. We love working with sentimental fabrics—like wedding dresses, vintage quilts, or heirloom garments—and transforming them into something entirely new that you’ll love to carry and use.
2. Can I choose from your vintage fabrics, or do I need to provide my own?
   You’re welcome to provide your own sentimental materials—or choose from our carefully curated collection of vintage and reclaimed fabrics. We have a beautiful stash of unique, high-quality textiles that can be used to complement or completely inspire your custom handbag or accessory. If you're not sure what you'd like to use, we can help guide you based on color, texture, and story.
3. Do you repurpose designer bags too?
   Yes—on occasion. We’ve created custom bags using vintage Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and other designer pieces when they belonged to a beloved family member or held deep sentimental value. While we can thoughtfully repurpose luxury materials, our focus is on creating modern heirlooms through custom handbag design that reflects your story and our own legacy of craftsmanship—not just the designer name.
4. What if my fabric is too delicate, stiff, or hard to work with?
   That’s actually really common—and nothing to stress about! Many customers aren’t sure whether their fabric is too fragile, thick, or textured for a custom handbag or accessory. That’s where we come in. During your consultation, we’ll help assess whether your fabric is a good fit for your intended style and suggest adjustments or reinforcement techniques if needed. We do a close review before beginning, but sometimes hidden elements like adhesives, interfacing, or brittleness only reveal themselves during deconstruction. If that happens, we’ll reach out to discuss options and make sure your piece still turns out beautifully.
5. How do you match materials like thread, zippers, and hardware in custom bags?
   When working with vintage or sentimental materials, finding exact matches for thread, zippers, or hardware can be tricky. We make every effort to select components that complement your original fabric beautifully while ensuring structural integrity. That said, some variation in tone or finish may occur due to the uniqueness of older materials.

Our goal is always to preserve the spirit of your original piece while blending it thoughtfully with high-quality modern elements—so your bag is both meaningful and built to last.

What does it cost to start a custom project?
We require a minimum project value of $500 for all custom handbag and accessory projects. Whether we're crafting a one-of-a-kind crossbody bag, wristlet, or repurposed keepsake using vintage or sentimental fabrics, this minimum ensures the time, expertise, and care involved in creating your custom Crystalyn Kae piece is honored from the very start.

To begin, we charge a non-refundable $200 development fee, which covers:

• Initial consultation
• Design research
• Material assessment

💡 This fee does not include pattern drafting or sketches, which—if needed—are quoted separately after the project has been approved to proceed.

Once the project moves forward:

• The $200 development fee is credited toward your final total (as long as it meets the $500 minimum).
• A 50% deposit is required to begin crafting.
• The remaining balance is due before shipping.

How long does a custom project take?
Custom orders typically take 6–8 weeks per style. This timeline may shift depending on:

• Design complexity
• Material availability
• Lead times for things like custom brass hardware, dyed leather, or tooling

We’ll give you a tailored timeline once we’ve reviewed your materials.

How do I start?
Just fill out the form on this page and tell us a bit about your project idea. Once we review your request, we’ll follow up with a quote and timeline.

What kind of support do you offer after I receive my bag?
We’ve been making handbags and accessories for over 20 years, with thousands of happy customers around the world. Our craftsmanship has stood the test of time—and we’re here if your bag ever needs a little extra care.

Because every custom project is one-of-a-kind, minor tweaks may occasionally be needed. If so, we’ll work with you to make it right.

If your bag has a structural issue within one year, we’ll gladly repair it at no charge. (Normal wear and tear isn’t covered.) After that, repairs are available for a small fee.

Thank you for considering Crystalyn Kae for your custom piece!