Handcrafted Leather Goods

With one exception, I have crafted these leather goods from the design phase to finishing. After sketching out a design, I draft the item using  CAD software then export the file for laser cutting. Laser cutting provides a precise cut every time and can make just about any shape. The rest of the project uses tried and true hand crafting methods with the assistance of leather working tools. All of the stitching I do by hand rather than use a sewing machine as this improves the strength of the seams. All of my leather goods are made from full grain, vegetable tanned Italian leather from Conceria Walpier or Badalassi Carlo along with some exotic leathers like farm-raised American alligator or ostrich.

Folding card carrier in black cowhide and red ostrich leg skin.

Inside of red and black folding card carrier.

Chocolate and orange card carrier with slanted pockets.

Orange authentic alligator on reverse of chocolate card holder.

Stitched and riveted dog collar with solid brass hardware.

Belt loop key chains in earth-tones.

Notebook or passport holder with American alligator strap.

Inside of the notebook/passport holder.

Billfold wallet in red and black with slanted pockets.

Card holder in green cowhide with ostrich leg skin.


Lewisville, TX 75077, US

matt@matthewopenshaw.com

Later in life than I should have, I began to study areas of the visual arts. My training has been self-directed through independent study, online learning, and in-person classes and workshops in the arts community of the Dallas/Fort Worth area. 

To get an overview of the field, I completed MoMA's Modern and Contemporary Art and Design online certificate and spent time learning to draw, paint, do photography and graphic design; then metalworking and jewelry-making as well as 3D design and printing technologies.

Currently, I am primarily painting on silk scarves with fiber reactive dyes although I used silk paints in my earlier works. Another endeavor has been crafting small items such as wallets and notebook covers from vegetable tanned leather.

© 2024 Matthew Openshaw

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