Pandemic projects: Liberty Lake resident expands her original bike bag design collection

If necessity is the mother of invention, then perhaps the pandemic is the father of creativity. At least that’s been semi-retired illustrator and graphic artist Dianne McDermott’s experience.

“I’m a bored artist that’s considered at-risk because of my age and other factors,” she said. “It’s become a challenge to keep myself occupied during these times of isolation.”

She channeled her energy into a product she’d created pre-pandemic – backpacks that are also unique works of art.

“The idea for these bags came because I can’t keep a purse from falling off my shoulders,” McDermott explained. “I’d resorted to a cross-body bag, but I enjoy bike riding and hiking, and backpacks were the best solution for hands-free convenience.”

However, she found sport-type backpacks too bulky, and she didn’t like their wide, padded straps and overly-deep pockets.

Her solution?

“I invented a backpack/purse that’s lightweight, adjustable and I hardly even notice it when I’m riding,” she said. “I use a pattern and make them from scratch out of heavy canvas or faux leather.”

She added a sturdy vinyl bottom, so the bag can be set down if needed.

McDermott’s art background shines in the design.

She’s made bags with themes like; coffee, cats, books, pugs, even the Creature from the Black Lagoon.

“I wanted to make something practical and usable, yet expressive as art,” she said.

Each backpack is one-of-a-kind.

“I use things like beads from artists in Wallace or ceramic toggles from Newfoundland,” said McDermott.

When she wore her bag while biking the Centennial Trail, it generated lots of comments from other Trail users. Her sisters reported the same experience when they wore the ones she’d created for them.

So, last winter she made a few and took them to a couple craft fairs. They sold out. McDermott was pleased, but put the project on hold, as she planned to travel with her husband last summer.

Since COVID-19 put an end to those travel plans, she dove into creating backpacks. Butterflies, birds and Snoopy-themed bags emerged from her nimble fingers. Beadwork and embroidery add to the uniqueness of each creation.

“The adjustable shoulder straps don’t slip, and the bag hugs your back beautifully when you ride. I’ve come a long way since that first bag,” she said.

McDermott sells the 10-inch by 11-inch bags for $45, but doesn’t consider this a business endeavor, instead she describes it as more of a “cottage industry.”

“I go to maybe two craft fairs a year. I don’t market on Facebook, Etsy, or have PayPal,” McDermott said. “But I’ve always admired fine artists who create from their heart and hope someone can see their message and will appreciate it enough to purchase it.”

Making art that’s functional and practical gives her joy, and has kept her busy during the pandemic.

“It’s a creative outlet,” she said.”My mantra is ‘don’t let this down time get you down.’ ”