Made in Virginia 2015: North End Bag Co., Virginia Beach

North End Bag Co.

Plenty of people talk about making things “like they used to,” and products that are “built to last.” But Aaron McLellan of North End Bag Co. is actually doing it. McLellan’s shop in Virginia Beach is packed with equipment from the 1920s, including original Singer sewing machines, old-school rivet presses, grommet presses and die-cutting machines. “I’m surrounded by all this equipment that is still working today and working in an excellent way,” says McLellan, 33, “so we’re using them to make something that will last just as well.” The Weekender bag, in full-grain leather or waxed canvas, has a sturdy but stylish look and feel, and is big enough to carry your gear for a two-day trip. McLellan, his wife and his sister construct the bags in small batches, about 20 at a time. McLellan values quality over quantity, which ensures the longevity of not just the bags, but North End Bag Co. itself. Leather, $550. Canvas, $175. NorthEndBagCo.com


See all the Made in Virginia 2015 Winners!

Overall Winner

Fern and Roby, Richmond

Home

Monolith Studios, Charlottesville (category winner)

Huger Embroidery, Richmond

Duvall Designs, Millwood

Owen Suter’s Fine Furniture, Richmond

Style

Shockoe Atelier, Richmond (category winner)

Rockbridge Guitar Company, Charlottesville

Melissa Lew Jewelry, South Riding

North End Bag Co., Virginia Beach

Drink

Belle Isle Craft Spirits, Richmond (category winner)

Early Mountain Vineyards, Madison

Texas Beach, Richmond

LUMI Juice, Charlottesville

Food

Brown Dog Handcrafted Premium Ice Cream, Cape Charles (category winner)

S. Wallace Edwards & Sons, Surry

Swover Creek Farms, Edinburg

Pennacook Peppers, Virginia Beach


Click here to see 2014 winners.

Click here to see 2013 winners.

Click here to see 2012 winners.

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