Behind The Scenes

My name is Xanthe, and I craft every piece of leatherwork you see here. I take great pride in making each item by hand, which brings great joy and love. I am self taught utilising practical skills passed down by my father and creative art skills inspired by my mother. Together I am able to combine this knowledge and make not only beautiful art, but durable, functional pieces that last a lifetime.   

My journey into loving leatherwork started 10 years ago. One day in the park, leather scraps were being offered away at donation. My friends and I jumped at the opportunity and decided to have a play.  That day I made my first ever leather creation; a coin pouch, of which I still use today. The affinity I have with leather is an ever evolving and learning one, one that has been able to flourish thanks to support of family and friends along with the beautiful Bellingen community where I call home.

The creative process includes designing the product, cutting the leather by hand, punching every hole and sewing every stitch. When developing a feature piece I either let the sacred skins do the talking, or I embellish incorporating a mix of techniques which range from stamping, carving, painting, dyeing, burning, or stone setting. Custom orders are my specialty, as they allow me to tailor designs and meet specific needs, creating something truly special and unique for each individual.