Get To Know: Lesia Griffin of 144 Collection
Meet Lesia Griffin of 144 Collection
Where are you located?
Kew Gardens, New York
What is it that you design and create?
Handbags and accessories
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Creating the patterns
How did you come up with your business name?
The name comes from my former address. I began sewing lessons when I lived there so I thought it just fit. My logo also contains some elements from my old building.
Where/How did this all begin?
144 Collection began as a hobby for me. I started taking sewing lessons as a way for me to relax and have fun. As I continued with my lessons, I found I enjoyed it so much I started making my own patterns. In February 2006, I started 144 Collection.
Who or what inspires you?
Everything inspires me fabrics, colors, shapes and every day life. I’m a huge fabroholic.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Research everything this includes pricing, manufacturing, promotion, marketing and other businesses that make the same kind of product that you offer. Try to attend seminars or classes that will help you learn more about the business you wish to pursue. I took a class on manufacturing accessories at the Learning Annex. I would also suggest getting a mentor. My mentor helps me with the business aspect which can sometimes be overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. It is really the only way to learn what not to do next time.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
I listen to just about everything. I use to work in the music industry so I like all kinds of music.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Gilmore Girls, House, Bones, CSI, The Family Guy, Grey’s Anatomy, and Monk. I had to stop I could go on all day with this question!
What was the last movie you watched?
Pans Labyrinth
What’s your favorite food?
Strawberries
What’s your favorite candy?
I can’t just choose one (it’s not fair to the other candy!)
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee..mmmmmmm…french vanilla
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
The Container Store (I’m currently banned from shopping there…lol)
Any pets?
Leopard Gecko
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
Spain
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
I should have answer for this but I don’t☹
Any celebrity crushes?
Orlando Bloom, Johnny Depp, Jesse L. Martin.
Favorite Holiday?
Christmas
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
Mmmmhmm don’t know.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
Musician
Favorite piece of clothing?
My sweater that I purchased from H&M. It is so warm.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
Sadly No, I don’t. I would love to learn Japanese or Chinese.
It’s already March! Any exciting plans for the rest of the year?
I’m looking forward to doing some more Flea Markets in the New York area and creating some more great bags.
Thanks, Lesia! Here are some handbags from 144 Collection…
Jessica Handbag; Tracy Totebag-Mod Flowers; GreenLee Bag-Tattooed Beauties:
