Tina Charbonneau
Tina grew up in a large family of 10 children, with 6 sisters. Her mother taught them to sew at a very early age. She began designing one of a kind handbags while in high school, using whatever materials were available and embellishing them with hand embroidery.
She considers her purses, handbags and other accessories as her "canvas" for creating her "simple works of art". She uses texture, appliqué, embroidery and beading to make her art unique. Clothes from consignment shops, or designer fabric samples find their way into her "Totally Hip" crossbody bags and her "Jannie" shoulder bags.
She shares her concepts with her sisters, who also continue to sew. Through their sharing of ideas, they have created a ministry, "Devoted Sisters". They design and create special tote bags that are donated to various charitable organizations in their communities. These have included shelters for women or homes for young mothers and their little ones. They do this not only as a labor of love, but in memory of their Mother who gave so much of herself not only to her children, but to her community as well.
Tina lives in Lake Placid, New York.
