Handmade Leather Backpack in Saddle Brown from Mexico, "Saddle Brown Traveler"

Update (June, 2019)

"We've been working with NOVICA since 2007 and have seen wonderful changes over these incredible years together.

"This was one of the first Internet sales venues that I knew of, and I love sharing my work and my great passion with you.

"One of the most important changes was that NOVICA helped us consolidate the quality of each one of our designs, and this resulted in an important transformation for us. They gave us the parameters for better organization in our workshop and this let us increase the diversity of our work. Thanks to their suggestions, our vision has grown.

"This is reflected in each one of the people who collaborate with us as we share this emotion, motivate them and make them aware of the project in which we all play a part.

"Over these years together, we've been able to make our corporation an independent one and to make our installations bigger. We began in a workshop next door to my parents' place but now we have a well distributed area with room for everyone here to feel comfortable.

"NOVICA taught me the importance of delivering designs of world-class quality, and to give my best in every detail of each of our creations.

"NOVICA has a very special place in my life. I really enjoy it when they request more of my designs and we always give them priority. And we've shared this passion and quality with everyone who works with us.

"I'm deeply grateful to NOVICA for being the main supporter of this dream of ours."

Original Artisan Story

"Hola! I'm Ricardo from the state of Guanajuato, which is well known for quality leather work. I've always loved to design, even as a boy, but I decided to study business administration. I took several jobs as a student, always related with leather goods such as shoes and handbags. My job was in the promotions area, mainly in specialized fairs.

"Being in contact with all the different customers gave me the opportunity to listen to their ideas, and work on new designs together with them. Eventually, my passion for design resurfaced and I decided to venture on my own, creating my own lines.

"That was 10 years ago, and now I have a little workshop and I have gained a lot of experience. I have developed an artistic sensibility for contemporary fashion trends, which I transmit through my designs.

"I believe today's fashions require innovative and daring designs, and this is what I aim to do with my work. I have gathered a team of artists, experts in the field, and together we share old and new techniques while working.

"I start by selecting the type of leather. Once I have settled on a particular design, I cut the leather as desired, and then proceed to sew it into shape. Sometimes I include a firm middle lining to help preserve the shape. I add the straps, zipper or button closure.

"I combine tradition and vanguard in my designs, creating practical accessories that are proudly made by Mexican hands."