Moulding Woven Leather
When two techniques merge into one sartorial process, something magical is born
Leather weaving is a craft that transforms individual strips of leather into a panel that carries the strength of the material and the fluidity of weave. In the atelier, every strip is cut, dyed, and prepared by hand before the weaving begins. The technique used here is the twill weave, known for its diagonal, parallel rhythm and its ability to create texture, movement, and depth.
The weaving begins with big panels of leather being measured and cut by hand into thin, even strips. Then the stripes are dyed by hand using special leather paint. This builds rich colour with tonal complexity that later would emphasise the diagonal structure of the twill. A protective finish is then applied to seal the colour.
The weaving process itself is meticulous and architectural. Each strip is passed over and under its neighbour in a repeating sequence, forming a diagonal pattern that is both visually striking and structurally resilient. Because the leather is woven entirely by hand, every intersection is tightened with precision, ensuring a coherent texture that remains flexible yet strong.
After the weave is completed, the panel is secured with strategically placed stitches that hold the structure together without interrupting the rhythm of the pattern. During the weaving process, it's important that the artisan's hands controls the tension between the strips. Too tight, and the weave becomes rigid. Too loose, and the pattern loses its structure and stability. The result of this well calculated tension is a texture that feels alive.
The woven panel is shaped delicately over a desired shape, following its curves and lines with extraordinary precision. Each and every small detail is created entirely by hand, ensuring that the shape is fully imprinted onto the woven leather.
The diagonal pattern of the weave that makes it incredibly flexible and strong also makes the moulding remarkably specific, able to capture even the most complex curves of the form. The leather retains every line and contour, creating a surface that feels alive, sculptural, and deeply artisanal.
When two techniques merge into one sartorial process, something magical is born --- a fluid sculpture with surface accentuated even more by its rich twill texture. The rich, rhythmic pattern of the weave enhances the shape of the moulded form, while the sculpted shape expands the three dimensional feel of the woven texture.
