Custom projects are the foundation of contra
I started by creating custom leather goods for friends, family, and then for new clients. These unique projects push me to test new ideas, tools and techniques - and make me a better designer. Today, many of our signature bags first started as custom projects - you can read more about these under each product description.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
My Design Framework
I work with full-grain vegetable-tanned leather, around 2mm thick. I like to use this material because it is durable and strong, it ages beautifully, and I love the sturdy geometric shape it creates. I pair this with brass hardware and the best zippers (Riri) to last the lifetime of the leather itself.
Secondly, I have no interest in creating products that replicate other products. I often reference other designs, analyse them, research how something is made, and use this information to create something unique.
Third, my style is refined, not loud. It focuses on the hand-sewn details that accentuate the material quality.
Do our design principles align? Let’s create something together!
The Custom Process
We start with your list of requests (this is where my architectural background comes in - we call this the program list, or your non-negotiables) this could be: it must carry a certain size laptop, or have a certain closure (like a front zipper), or we could start with a couple of photos of bags that you love.
Then, I create a quote, project timeline, and request a down payment (50% of the quote).
Custom projects are a labour of love, and they invite me to test new ideas and techniques, so I like to approach each one with ample time and space to evolve.
The production starts with paper mock-ups, then testing details with the leather, and finally creating the final leather good.
Why Order Custom?
I created my first leather bag because I couldn’t find the perfect bag for me. I wanted a bag that fit my body size, something that was secure, and minimal, not covered in logos.
And from this process, I created a beautiful bag that matches my aesthetic and lifestyle, and I use it everyday - well, now I have multiple bags I use all the time!
Here are some examples of custom bag ideas/orders:
You have an idea of a bag or product you would like, but you haven’t been able to find it
You are looking for a gift for a special someone
You want to create a product to celebrate a moment in time
You have a product that requires a certain sized bag (such as a camera or laptop)
SEMI-CUSTOM PROJECTS
I also offer small adjustments to my signature collection. Semi-custom orders so far have included:
adding a zipper or snap closure
adding more pockets
making the pockets larger, or to fit something specific
adding a pencil pocket
stamping someone’s initials, or writing on the leather
some of my favourite things
Below, you can scroll through recent custom projects and a glimpse into the process.
favourit-itos
Smaller custom projects - wallets, dog collars etc.
your bag, your story
“I wanted a bag with a zipper and a rolled strap that reminded me of my custom horse bridle. The process was simple and easy. I was surprised by the depth of detail incorporated and the execution of the final bag. It was just like we had talked about, each idea incorporated into a beautiful bag.”
- Julianna
“This crossbody leather bag has become one of my favorite accessories when I travel. I take it everywhere from Mexico City to NYC. It’s understated, durable, and incredibly functional. The contrast stitching along the flap gives it a really high-end, artisan look. It feels like something that will only look better as it ages and develops a bit of a patina.”
- David
“I love the built-in glasses case in this bag. My glasses are clean, they aren’t scratched, and I know where they are at all times. If this bag ever wears out and I order another bag, I will ask for two glasses slots, one for sunglasses, one for reading glasses. And, I keep getting compliments on my purse!”
- Kate