Made for your unique self
I started Contra by creating custom leather goods for friends, family.
These unique projects push me to test new ideas, tools and techniques - and make me a better designer. Today, many of my signature products first started as custom projects. You can read more about these under each product description.
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.
My style is refined, not loud. It focuses on the hand-sewn details that accentuate the material quality.
The Custom Process
We start with your list of requests (this is where my architectural background comes in - we call this your non-negotiables). This could be: it must carry a certain size laptop, or have a specific 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.
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 bags I’ve made so far
Below, you can scroll through recent custom projects and a few process shots.
SMALLER CUSTOM PROJECTS
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