Indian Summer Leather Design

Specialties

Uniquely designed, soft leather bags and purses with bold colours and a West Coast touch.

History

Established in 1995.

My passion for leather began early in life. When I was a little girl, I would sneak into our hometown tannery in Germany, collect leather scraps from their dump, and glue little change purses together.

It was later in life, during my 4 years of studying fashion design in Pforzheim, Germany, that I rediscovered my love for leather. To learn more techniques for working with leather, I did an apprenticeship with a well known leather designer, Pia Petrini, in Berlin, Germany. During my studies, I custom made leather clothing, jackets, skirts and pants for my clients.

In 1994 I sailed from Germany to Vancouver, Canada. Upon arrival in Vancouver I sent for my heavy duty walking foot Pfaff sewing machine. Utilizing my European fashion background and my thorough education, knowledge and experience in design, pattern making, cutting, and sewing, I decided to start Indian Summer Leather Design making soft leather bags and purses.

Meet the Business Owner

Anita J.

Business Owner

I love creating uniquely designed bags that are well made and functional, combining my European background with a touch of West Coast flair. My inspiration comes from things that I see and experience in nature, my travels, art, and my surroundings. I enjoy playing and experimenting with my materials to discover fresh and unique designs.

Although there have been times when I have had the opportunity to grow my business, I have deliberately kept it on an Artisan’s level in order to be involved in the whole process from creative design to finished product. All designs, patterns, and cuttings are made entirely by me.

In addition to my love of creating my product, I also love dealing directly with my customers. Over the years I have built a loyal customer base. Connecting on a personal level with my customers is very rewarding to me. My business philosophy emphasizes customer service and a close friendly relationship between myself and the person who will ultimately wear my bags.