My name is Dolapo James. I work full time as an architect in London. I design and hand make handbags in my spare time. A few years ago I bought a sewing machine and taught myself how to sew. I enjoy being able to sketch and design something and make it into a finished piece within a week for example as opposed to a building which could take up to a year! The line is evolving and will continue to do so as I experiment with new techniques, shapes and sizes. Even when I am designing something new, I am already thinking of what the next one will be.

Currently most of my bags are made mainly of Nigerian fabrics, Ankara, Adire and Aso-oke which are sourced where possible from the original makers. Ankara is a printed fabric, Adire is batik or tie/dye and Aso-oke is a hand-woven fabric. Growing up in Nigeria, I was always fascinated at the sheer variety and vibrancy of all these fabrics, each piece being like a piece of art. I want each of my bags to be a portion of this art and most of all I want each one to be different. I have always wanted to be able to use the fabrics in a different way to the usual. The idea being that everyone that has an Urbanknit bag has something that is special and unique to them. No one else will have the exact same thing. The organic nature of these fabrics allows that. I am also interested in combining them with more regular fabrics like denim, satin, velvet, corduroy in order to make pieces that are functional and fun and funky! I imagine those that would get an Urbanknit bag are looking for something that will stand out, that is expressive of their characters and who don't want something that everyone else has.

The line started from a desire to introduce a new way of wearing interesting patterns and colors that are often very bold and colorful as part of the everyday outfit. I especially like being able to compliment a simple outfit with a bold accessory like a piece of jewelry, a scarf or a handbag. Every single one is different to the next. You will have something that is completely unique to you! Some of the fabrics are one-offs and will never be repeated.

When I am tired I often forget to insert snaps and fastenings into a bag before it is sewn up. This is a pain as it involves taking the bag apart. That is my typical night nightmare. However, getting feedback from people who have bought a bag and gotten compliments about it is a great feeling and makes me want to make even more. Even better is going out and seeing someone with an Urbanknit bag.