So it turned out that my 10-year-old Kenmore sewing machine, while fabulous for occasional crafting, was not up to the challenge of producing Buzz’s new line of super-sturdy, super-roomy tote bags. I kept the old girl around for more lightweight sewing assistance, but I knew I was ready to take on something a little faster and more powerful - a commerical machine.

I discovered this wonderful decades-old, family-run, independent sewing machine shop a short drive away, the Domestic Sewing Center in Warren, Ohio.

The wonderful owners helped me test-drive and purchase my new Janome 1600P commercial machine. I never knew a machine could be so powerful and fast yet easy to use. I got it set up as soon as I returned home and gave it some vintage upholstery fabric to chew on.

A short while later I had a new tote to add to the Buzz spring line-up… but more on that later.