The idea for the ifluo bags was born a few years ago out of frustration. On my way to work by car, I saw many cyclists in dark clothing carrying dark backpacks. Some even without bicycle lights. Some cyclists did wear a fluorescent jacket but then wore a dark rucksack above it, making the fluorescent jacket of little use. A few wear their fluorescent jacket over their rucksacks, but that is also a strange sight. Fluorescent covers for your rucksack are great but also a hassle and an extra cost. This can be done better, I thought.
I went to the fabric shop and bought black, fluorescent and reflective fabrics. I took out my Brother sewing machine and started stitching. As a child, I also liked sewing handbags and pouches and after a few years of sewing in night school, this too would do. My first designs were basic but I got good reactions from colleagues and friends anyway. After a few years of procrastination, covid, busyness at work, I finally made a go of it in 2022 and started ifluo in a secondary capacity.
The search for suppliers, manufacturers, right fabrics, making prototypes, writing texts for the website, ... took a bit longer than expected but I found it a very instructive and interesting period. The new people I meet through this, the ups and downs that come with it; it gives me so much energy and I enjoy being creative again alongside my desk job. In 2023, all the pieces of the puzzle have finally fallen together. Production has started and the website is live. I love it when a good plan comes together!