Simon James

Hand-crafted Designs in Leather

One of the satisfactions in being a designer-maker is the opportunity to develop new methods of construction and continually evolve the range of products. My bags are designed to be modern but are not closely linked to fashion trends which lends to them an enduring appeal. They are crafted and stitched by hand and I obtain precision, an important aspect of high quality, through close attention to detailing. From a small stock of  selected sheepskin, goat, calf and suede, some of which are patterned or embossed, I can produce a wide variety of texture and colour combinations.

In designing, my aim is to integrate the decoration of a bag with its structure. Sometimes this is done with a coloured line running around every side, and at other times by a moulded feature. The concept is further enhanced by removing  buckles and external pockets which might interfere with simple clean lines. My designs have firm sides, both for protecting contents and because I like them to retain their shape, whether full or empty. When not in use they can be viewed as interesting objects in their own right.