MW Makes
LEWISHAM, London
I set up MW Makes in 2017, from a desire to make with my own hands.
Influenced by my background in architecture, items are designed with an emphasis on simple geometries, clean lines and functionality.
I work exclusively with oak or vegetable tanned leather and are handmade from start to finish, using traditional saddlery techniques, such as saddle stitching and hand burnishing.
The result is a collection of simple, functional items that are made to last.
Proudly independent
A few favourite PIECEs
The story behind the business
Meet michelle
Whilst working in architectural practice, I missed some of the processes that were involved with studying architecture, like creating beautiful drawings or assembling intricate models. I had a strong desire to make with my own hands.
This led me to attend craft workshops where leathercraft appealed to me the most. Working with leather allows me to explore design and craftsmanship at a (much!) smaller scale and I’m thoroughly enjoying seeing designs come to life.
I work exclusively with oak and vegetable tanned leather, which is tanned using tannins extracted from vegetable matter such as bark, unlike the more commonly used Chromium tanned leather. Vegetable tanning is a slow, artisanal process which takes months instead of days. My favourite characteristic of this leather is that it ages with use and forms a beautiful patina over time.
founder Credentials
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From MW Makes
