Stacey is a felt crossbody bag shaped like a spotted black-and-white cat, about 33 x 21.5 cm. She holds up both paws, looks out with wide eyes, has expressive whiskers and pink paw pads. Made by hand in Nepal using traditional felting, every bag is slightly different.
Grey, black, white and brown felt balls
The long strap is threaded from felt balls in soft grey, black, white and earthy brown. These quiet colours suit the black-and-white cat, and they go with a grey coat or jeans as well. The balls are hand-felted, soft to the touch and firm.
A flat bag for the essentials
Stacey is a slim, flat bag that holds your phone and a few small things. You can also wear the strap across your body, which keeps your hands free at the market or on a walk. Empty, it weighs about 186 g, so you will hardly feel it on your shoulder all afternoon.
She is a good pick if bright colours aren't your thing but you'd still enjoy a bit of fun. A cat-loving friend would like her as a present too. Her more colourful partner is Whitney, the white, black and orange flat cat on a strap of bright felt balls.
When it rains
Felt soaks up water, so leave it at home in heavy rain. If it does get soaked, lay it flat to dry at room temperature, not on a radiator. Wipe marks gently with a damp cloth, and keep it out of the washing machine. When you are not using it, store it flat in the wardrobe rather than hanging it by the strap.