Joshua Arens

14/04/2026

Die neue Markseason ist wieder eröffnet und dieser Jahr mit Werkbank am Stand!

28/11/2025

Come and visit for some Christmas shopping ☃️🎄

23/11/2025

Some big updates coming soon 🤫

31/10/2025

Happy to announce I finally launched my own store 🥳.
All my patterns are still available on Etsy but for physical products check out my new store 😇

07/10/2025

I've been on a bit of a break but there's something exciting news coming so stay tuned. In the meantime here is a new sling bag design I did recently. You can also check out my YouTube channel if you want to see how it's made!

21/03/2025

A new upgraded version of a classic glasses case.
It features a velour leather lining and a beautifully polished edge that really stands out.
If you want to secure one for yourself check it out on my store:
https://craftybarashop.etsy.com/listing/1872554644

If you want to make one yourself I also have the pattern & tutorial video available!

https://youtu.be/27c58TT56-A?si=fgqwJtQbEOsCzvMu

https://craftybarashop.etsy.com/listing/1872547304

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10/03/2025

I’m hesitant to make bold claims about sustainability because I believe in action over advertising. Instead of using catchy slogans, I want to share the concrete steps I take to make my products as sustainable as possible.

Leather
I use vegetable-tanned leather, a process far more eco-friendly than chrome tanning, as it avoids harmful chemicals and relies on natural tannins. All my leather comes from tanneries certified by the Genuine Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, which preserves traditional and sustainable tanning methods.
This leather also lasts longer, developing a rich patina instead of cracking or peeling, ensuring your bag becomes a lifelong companion.

Zippers
Wherever possible, I source materials locally to reduce long supply chains, which are one of the biggest challenges in sustainable manufacturing, in my opinion. My zippers come from Heiligenstädter Reißverschlüsse, a German brand that manufactures entirely in Germany. They are also certified by the German Institute for Sustainability and Economics for their ongoing commitment to sustainable practices.

Thread
I use Amann’s Serafil Recycled polyester thread, made from 100% recycled materials. While Amann is a German company, they operate globally, and I cannot yet verify if this specific thread is produced in Germany. Transparency matters too, so I want to acknowledge this.

Waxed Canvas
Waxed canvas is a natural alternative to synthetic waterproof fabrics. My canvas comes from Halley Stevensons, a Scottish company producing BCI-certified and organic cotton fabrics since 1864.
Unlike many waterproofing treatments that rely on harmful PFCs, their fabrics use natural waxes like beeswax or byproducts from other industries, making them a more sustainable choice.

Production
Sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s also about how things are made.
Every bag is handcrafted by me in my workshop in Saarbrücken, Germany. The only power tool I use is a sewing machine, which consumes about as much electricity as your vacuum cleaner. This means my production process has a minimal carbon footprint, relying on craftsmanship over large-scale industrial methods.

I hope you found it interesting and let me know if you have any additional ideas or suggestion how my sustainability approach can be improved further in the future.

02/03/2025

A classic leather office briefcase. A timeless classic that works with every outfit.
The bag has enough space to fit everything needed for a long workday.
The handles are long enough to carry it over your shoulder or add a shoulder strap depending on your preference.
https://craftybarashop.etsy.com/listing/1822844196

28/02/2025

A neat leather backpack inspired by a certain Swedish company.
This one will last you a lifetime though.
Featuring a bottle holder, side pocket, front zipper pocket, and a large main compartment it has enough space and organization for all your daily essentials!
Currently available in Dark Whisky Brown but if you have a different preference it's no problem. Just let me know what you are looking for and I'll make it a reality.
https://craftybarashop.etsy.com/listing/1865692611

25/02/2025

New Leather Sling bag. Super comfortable to carry with the adjustable fabric shoulder strap and easy access to the main compartment thanks to the small leather latch and magnetic button!
Currently available in 2 colors brown and black.
https://craftybarashop.etsy.com/listing/1854679560

As always if you would rather make it your own the pattern is also available here:
https://craftybarashop.etsy.com/listing/1856146608

This Crossbody Bags item is sold by CraftyBaraShop. Ships from Germany. Listed on Feb 3, 2025

07/01/2025

New product available, get 20% off for this week: https://www.etsy.com/de-en/listing/1829829407/handcrafted-leather-messenger-bag

For all my crafters out there this is also the first product where you will find the pattern with instructions in my shop as well! Check it out here: https://www.etsy.com/de-en/listing/1854574415/messenger-bag-bag-compact-crossbody-bag

The Bag: This compact leather messenger bag has a timeless design and works for almost any style. Featuring sharp and clean corners it's designed for a minimalist yet eye-catching style. Ideal for carrying your daily essentials such as wallet, phone and other small items. The additional pocket on the back is also perfect for quick access to your phone or cards, keeping your hands free. The top handle also doubles as a belt attachment depending on what you prefer.