Welcome to my first post on the LAMA’s good leather blog! I’m Dani, a neuroqueer Afro-Latina who traded Santiago for Berlin and found myself perpetually covered in leather dust along the way. Join me to find out my story, the updates, and everything in between; being a migrant, a self-taught leather worker, my struggles and wins during this crazy journey that has lasted almost 10 years (and counting!).
My entry into leatherwork wasn’t planned. It began in 2015 while working part-time at a shoe shop, where I experimented with some beautiful leather scraps. There was something captivating about the material’s texture, aroma, and untapped potential that spoke to me. One of the first skills I mastered was crafting a belt—a seemingly simple item that taught me fundamental techniques like cutting straight lines, edge finishing, and hardware installation. That humble belt project sparked something in me that would eventually grow into LAMA Leather Goods.
With borrowed tools and boundless curiosity, I started experimenting. My early attempts were far from perfect—uneven cuts, imprecise assembly, and designs that didn’t quite match my vision. YouTube became my virtual mentor as I paused, rewound, and studied countless tutorials, trying to decode techniques that skilled artisans made look effortless.
Those first creations had plenty of “character,” but with each project came progress. Every clean cut, every well-set rivet represented a small victory that fuelled my growing passion. Transforming flat leather into functional, beautiful objects provided a satisfaction I hadn’t experienced before.
As my skills developed, I gained understanding of leather varieties, tool maintenance, and the patience required for quality craftsmanship. My natural inclination toward minimalism began shaping my aesthetic—creating pieces that embodied both simplicity and durability. I developed my signature stitch-free assembly techniques, focusing on clean hardware installation and precise construction methods that eliminate the need for traditional stitching.
Relocating to Berlin marked a turning point for my craft. The city’s vibrant maker community and celebration of individuality created the perfect environment for LAMA to evolve. Surrounded by fellow creators, I continued refining my approach to leatherwork, emphasising meticulous assembly and sustainability.
Looking back at my self-taught path—with all its challenges and rewards—I’m convinced that leather working is accessible to anyone willing to try. You don’t need formal training to experience the joy of creating with your hands.
Start as I did by gathering basic supplies: a quality craft knife, cutting mat, and assembly hardware. Source leather scraps from online marketplaces or local leather businesses. Dive into online tutorials and connect with the supportive maker community. Embrace the learning curve, learn from mistakes, and celebrate every improvement!
If you prefer structured guidance, our beginner-friendly workshops provide an ideal introduction to leather working. You’ll:
✦ Work with premium, sustainable leather materials
✦ Master essential techniques including cutting, punching, and hardware assembly
✦ Receive personalised instruction
✦ Complete a finished piece to take home
✦ Connect with like-minded creative individuals
Our workshops help you bypass initial obstacles while building a solid foundation in a supportive environment.
Want the perfect middle ground between self-teaching and guided instruction? Our DIY Leather Belt Kit provides everything you need to create your own custom belt—just like the first project that started my leather working journey. Each kit includes:
✦ Premium vegetable-tanned leather strap
✦ All necessary hardware and fasteners
✦ Essential leather working tools
✦ Detailed step-by-step instructions
✦ Access to online video tutorials
The kit allows you to experience the satisfaction of crafting a personalised, high-quality belt that you’ll wear proudly for years to come. It’s designed for complete beginners, so no prior experience is necessary. Learn at your own pace while creating something both beautiful and functional!
The joy of making awaits
Whether you choose the independent path, join us for a workshop, or start with our DIY belt kit, leather working offers a unique connection to materials and process, along with the satisfaction of creating something tangible with your own hands.
What are you waiting for? Pick up some leather, let your creativity flow, and perhaps I’ll see you soon at a LAMA workshop in Berlin!
