Born in Ontario, Janna Hurtzig moved to the West Coast in 1994. Completely self taught, she has been handcrafting her creations since 1998. In 2005, production moved from home to a large, cozy studio in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, where it remains today.
Inspired by nature, the Astrosatchel label combines Scandinavian design, Asian pop culture influences and a Canadian cottage feel, to give even the smallest of items a distinct look. Products include purses and tote bags, wallets, diaper bags made from vegan friendly Naugahyde vinyl as well as one of a kind pieces made from recycled textiles. A winter collection including toques and scarves made using recycled cashmere is an annual favorite.
The Astrosatchel aesthetic is clean lined, yet detailed, allowing complex themes to be expressed in simplified manner. Bold and bright colour combinations add a striking layer to the story. Fall/Winter 2007 themes include persimmons, trees, vintage ski sweater patterns, and stitched botanicals, as well as the new colour based series of back-to-basic, retro shaped purses.
Sold in independent boutiques across Canada and the United States, Astrosatchel products have appeared on Much Music, and MTV Canada, and in numerous magazines including Vancouver Fashion and Flare.