Rachel Jones, designer of the Buckitt handbag, has proved crowd-funding via website Kickstarter can lead to serious success.
The Hackney-based designer wanted to raise funds to keep production in the UK and build a business around her perfect-for-every-occasion leather handbags.
Having bid for £15,000 of seed funding on site, at the end of the 30 day period Rachel actually received £19,199 worth of backing and an impressive 150 orders - all to be completed before Christmas.
The bag we tipped to be the next big thing is well on its way to becoming a trans-seaonal staple and at £290 for the Buckitt One style, it's well worth the investment.
We spoke to Rachel back in July when she started the all-or-nothing campaign on Kickstarter and again following its finish. Not only was the Buckitt bag venture 127% funded but it received 112 backers.
"Now it's all go!" she said. "The money has gone towards production, planning and expansion (retailing in Russia for example). Oh, also a new member of staff, accessories like the fixtures and Buckitt loops, packaging and the lookbook - everything to make us a fully functioning business."
She added: "With Kickstarter, you can take what you want from the platform whether it's money or business profile. You build the campaign, and if you put in the effort it opens you up to all the right people."
With new Spring/Summer 2014 colourways (in addition to the standard eight: black, tan, grey, navy, green, red, wine and chocolate ) underway there is also the prospect of designer collaborations. Rachel is in talks with ethical British designer Lu Flux around fabulous print and patchwork styles. As well as receiving wholesale orders from fashion independents, the Buckitt bag will also be stocked in Anthropologie in limited edition stripe styles.
Intrigued? Excited? Thinking of starting up a creative project - or backing one? Here are five Kickstarter projects to keep your eye on:
1. When it comes to working out,the hard core sweaty Bettys amongst us need high-performance, high-fashion wares. Luckily this activewear line by Charli Cohen is just that...
2. If your vibe is eclectic-cool with a definite focus on one-of-a-kind pieces be prepared to really rate Illicit clothing label created by Francis Ukpolo and Debbie Balogun...
3. Constantly on the look out for a stand-out rucksack? Something that really does the job and looks super-cool? Adventure backpacks and bags designed by Dereks is a brand to keep tabs on...
4. Love that roaring 1920s style? You'll love a little luxe lingerie then The Maven Collection from Blackbird Underpinnings by Marin Camille and Julia Zolinsky is definitely worth a second look...
5. All about a cosy lasts-a-lifetime jumper? Custom Fit Sweaters Ethically Made in America by Mariano deGuzman & Grace are for you...
To see all the latest campaigns (across all categories) on Kickstarter check out the site here.