Handmade Russet Leather Waist Bag from Java, "Simple Russet"

“Life is a pleasant journey. Try to adapt to all circumstances, so that you can live happily.”

“My name is Shintamie Suryaputri. I was born in Kota Gede, Yogyakarta, Java in 1985.

“Kota Gede is located about five kilometers southeast of Yogyakarta. Kota Gede is a neat little town which was once the seat of the mighty Mataram Empire. There is a cemetery complex where one can visit the graves of the Mataram kings, like Sutowijoyo or Ngabei Loring Pasar. The town is considered to be the cultural center of Yogyakarta.

“I am the second child of 2 siblings. I have lived in Yogyakarta all my life; playing, going to school and working here. My parents are leather bag makers. They also export their products abroad. Because I was used to seeing my parents at work since I was young, by the relatively young age of 20 years I had started my own workshop. Living in the Kota Gede neighborhood with a lot of arts and strong cultural customs, my hobby in designing was well-developed.

“My decision to make my hobby into a business came in 2002, when my parents’ business collapsed. I decided to revive my parents' business with the remaining materials, the spirit of doing business that I got from my parents, and new trends in design and production.

“I get inspiration for my designs from everyday life. By observing and sensing the needs of my customers, I can always create the right product. I am very grateful for what I have at this time. I feel most contented when my designs have a place in the hearts of buyers. The best part of my product is authenticity in design. And my products always use up all materials, with zero waste.

“I am very ambitious not to let my family's legacy just disappear without a trace. I have worked hard to finally reach my current status of having 6 employees and 5 craftsmen. Currently sales are also good, and continue to increase. By promoting handcrafting skills and using traditional fabrics, I hope Indonesian culture is increasingly recognized in the international arena.”