How Custom Crochet Bag Orders Work at My Happy Made

The most common message I receive on Etsy goes something like this: "I love the cream and terracotta bag but is there any way to do it in navy and green?" Or: "I need something larger than what's in the shop." Or just: "Can you make me something like the one in the third photo but in a different colour?"

The answer is usually yes. Here is exactly how it works.

Step one: Tell me what you're imagining

You don't need to arrive with a mood board and a Pantone reference. Most people describe it in terms of: a bag they saw (here or somewhere else), colours they like, a general size, and any practical requirements. "I want something that fits a 13-inch laptop" is useful. "Something earthy" is also useful. "I want to match my beige coat" is useful and I'll ask you to send a photo.

The more specific you are, the faster we get to the right result. But vague is also fine — it just involves more conversation at the beginning.

Step two: I confirm whether it's possible

Most custom combinations are possible. A few aren't — I don't use synthetic yarns or bright neon colours because they don't behave the same way as the premium cotton I use for the ready-made collection. Some colour combinations look better in theory than they do in practice, and I'll say so.

Once I confirm I can make what you're describing, I'll tell you the estimated price (similar to the ready-made range, starting around $120 for a crossbody and $160 for a medium tote) and the timeline.

Step three: Timeline

Custom pieces take 2–4 weeks from when we've agreed on the design. This accounts for sourcing any yarn colours I don't currently have, making the squares, joining them, lining, and finishing. I'll give you a more precise estimate once I know what you're ordering.

If you have a deadline — a birthday, a trip, a gift for a specific date — tell me upfront. I work around a consistent schedule and I'd rather know early than try to rush the final stages.

Step four: Process

I work the same way for custom pieces as for the ready-made collection. Same cotton. Same technique. Same standards. The only difference is you've specified the colours and, if relevant, the size.

I usually send a progress photo when the squares are done and laid out, before I start joining — this is the last easy point to change anything. After joining begins, changes are difficult without restarting significant sections.

Step five: Delivery

Custom orders ship the same way as the ready-made collection — tracked, carefully packaged, from Istanbul. International delivery 7–14 business days. Turkey: 2–5 business days.

How to start

Send a message through the Custom Orders page on this site, or message directly on Etsy. Either works. I read everything and reply within a day or two.