Etsy

Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, my introduction to leather began my junior year of college, while taking a theater class. I stumbled upon a Punchinello mask, which comes from an Italian art form called Commedia d’el Arte. The original Commedia d’el Arte masks were made from leather and in studying Commedia, I learned a lot about the use of leather as a medium in art. In 2007, I traveled to Italy to take a Commedia Mask Making Course from Maestro Donato Sartori, and learned the difference between techniques taught in books and techniques actually used. I returned with a bigger desire than ever to pursue my love of working with leather.


Making a mask is a long, involved process. I needed smaller projects that allowed me to practice skills used in mask making, yet didn’t take so long. As a contractor, I enjoy making things that help me in my line of work and develop my leather working skills: a Magnetic Cuff for holding screws, a Magnetic Tape Holder, and a Utility Bag.


Last summer, How to Tame Your Dragon came out in the movie theaters. I had some time and materials on hand, so I decided to make my three children their own swords, shields, and sheaths, so they could be real heroes like the kids in the movie. People saw their leather toys and began placing orders, as well as telling others about my creations. My clientele now ranges from children, to adults, to an online toy store, to a local natural toy store. I am now happily making swords, shields, and other things, using a material I love, that’s been around since the caveman: leather.