Welcome to the sleaves blog! I'm Mike Pickett, the founder of sleaves, where we blend traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability to create handcrafted leather goods.
At sleaves, my mission is to produce high-quality leather products while prioritizing eco-friendly practices. As a dedicated leather enthusiast, I wanted to establish a brand that not only delivers exceptional goods but also respects the environment. That's why I only use vegetable-tanned leather, known for its durability and environmental benefits.
The Creative Process
The journey begins with inspiration, often sourced from fellow leather makers, Pinterest, or Google image searches. I compile a collection of up to 20 images that embody the style I envision. These serve as the foundation for my designs, which I sketch out either on paper or my iPad. With over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer, I utilize Adobe Illustrator to create detailed patterns and templates.
Once the design is finalized, I craft mockups from leather, rigorously testing them for functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Each sleaves product is designed to look great and withstand daily use.
Feedback Is Always Welcomed
Customer feedback has been incredibly positive, with comments like, "Love my wallet from Sleaves. Well made, love the color. I get so many compliments" and "I bought a black and blue Sycamore Leather cardholder and I'm so pleased with it. It's thin enough to remove the hideous bulge from my front pocket." It's gratifying to see our products being cherished by our customers.
What The Future Holds
Looking ahead, my vision for sleaves is to become a household name in the leather goods industry. I'm continuously working on new ideas to captivate our customers and set us apart in the market. My goal is to grow sleaves into a globally recognized brand and make it my primary source of income.
Whether you're seeking a unique handcrafted leather item or committed to sustainable and eco-friendly products, sleaves is the brand for you. I'm proud of my achievements and excited to keep creating beautiful, sustainable leather goods that you'll love for years to come.
Thank you for being part of this journey!