Commissioning a custom leather piece is a collaborative design experience built around craftsmanship, fit, and intention. Each project is created one at a time using traditional leatherworking techniques and couture-level construction methods.
Because every design is made specifically for the individual client, I accept a limited number of commissions at a time.
Step 1 — Initial Project Review
The process begins with an initial review of your project, photographs, goals, and available information. This allows me to determine whether the project is appropriate for my studio and whether a consultation is needed.
Consultations, when appropriate, may be held:
• In person (New Hampshire area)
• Via Zoom for long-distance clients
We discuss inspiration, intended use, fit considerations, materials, and budget.
Step 2 — Pattern Development & Fitting
Your measurements are used to draft a custom pattern.
• Local clients attend in-person fittings
• Remote clients receive a measurement guide
• A muslin prototype may be created to test fit and proportions
Because leather cannot be easily altered once cut, precision at this stage is critical. Some designs require multiple fittings or prototypes.
Your pattern and design details are archived for future projects.
Step 3 — Material Selection
There are many types and finishes of leather available, each with different structure, weight, and behavior. Together we select materials suited to the design, comfort, durability, and budget.
Quality linings, hardware, trims, and specialty materials are sourced specifically for your project.
Step 4 — Handcrafting the Piece
Leather construction differs significantly from fabric construction.
Unlike fabric, leather cannot be unpicked without leaving marks. Each step requires planning and precision. Every hide is inspected, pattern pieces are strategically placed, and components are cut and assembled by hand.
The result is a piece built to last, both structurally and visually.
The Experience
Custom leather design is slower than off-the-rack fashion — intentionally so. The process values craftsmanship over speed, and each stage ensures the final piece fits, functions, and reflects your vision.
Booking a Custom Project
Due to the time-intensive nature of this work, Lisa takes on a limited number of custom commissions.
To begin:
-
Submit your project inquiry and photographs.
Provide photographs and as much information as possible about your project, including your desired design, materials, dimensions, timeframe, and budget. -
Initial project review.
I will review the information provided to determine whether the project is appropriate for my studio and whether it may be a good fit for my work and process. -
Design Agreement & Design Fee.
If we agree to move forward, a custom design agreement will be prepared and the $150 nonrefundable design fee will be required to begin the design process. The design fee is applied toward the final balance of the completed project. -
Consultation, if needed.
Once the agreement is signed and the design fee is paid, if additional discussion or an in-person assessment is needed, we can determine the appropriate consultation format and next steps. Consultation fees, when applicable, will be discussed before an appointment is scheduled. -
Design Development & Formal Estimate.
Once the design process has begun, the project can be developed in detail. A formal estimate will be prepared after the design has been finalized, based on the agreed-upon design, materials, construction requirements, and anticipated labor. Any requested changes that affect the finalized design or estimate will be discussed before proceeding. -
Production Deposit & Scheduling.
Once the design and estimate are approved, the required production deposit is collected and the project is scheduled for production.
An initial project review does not constitute acceptance of a project or reserve production time in the studio. Consultations and detailed design work take place as part of the agreed-upon design process.
Email Lisa with a description of your project, photographs when applicable, desired timeframe, and budget range.
For examples of past work, visit Custom Made Leather Clothing & Accessories
