Chu Yan — The 79-Year-Old Dreamer of Jiangsu
Chu Yan, a 79-year-old craftswoman from Jiangsu, China, continues to pursue her lifelong dream through handcrafted bags. For 35 years, she has been selling her handmade creations at local markets, with an estimated total of around 4,000 bags made so far. Each fully handcrafted bag takes her 10 to 20 days to complete, showcasing remarkable dedication and skill. Her family fully supports her passion—her children often help collect various materials needed for her craft. Chu Yan’s handmade bags embody all the desirable qualities of modern accessories: they are meticulously crafted, innovative in design, waterproof, stain-resistant, and exceptionally durable, with some pieces lasting 8 to 13 years. Despite her age, Chu Yan is a true “all-round master”—her talents extend far beyond just making beautiful bags. There are many more stories waiting to be discovered about this remarkable woman who has turned her craft into a lifelong legacy.