Up until now, I considered myself more of an interpreter of classical leather bag forms rather than a true designer. I focused on applying high-quality artisan leather techniques to traditional shapes and forms, resulting in well-crafted products. But seeing the capabilities of these artisans in Ubrique, I’ve realized that it’s time to step up my game and truly push the boundaries of what my bags can be. It’s no longer enough to settle for good craftsmanship; I want my designs to stand out with distinctive and unique silhouettes.

I’m taking on the challenge to create bags that aren’t just good—they need to be exceptional, with designs that catch the eye and capture the imagination. I want to craft pieces that can stand side by side with the finest luxury bags, made from the very best European leathers. Fortunately, Ubrique gives me easy access to these materials, with some of Europe’s top tanneries just a stone's throw away. For example, Curtidos Badia, a tannery that’s been a game-changer for me, is just 48 steps from my apartment. Their quality leather has left me speechless, and having access to it feels like a gift from the leather gods.

Living and working in Ubrique, surrounded by centuries of leatherworking know-how, is more than just an opportunity to improve my craft. It’s a chance to redefine how I approach design. The environment here demands innovation and excellence; there’s no room for complacency. The artisans expect you to challenge yourself, and when you do, they meet you halfway with their incredible skills. I’m learning to look at leather differently, to think about how a simple change in stitching, an adjustment in the bag’s structure, or the choice of a specific leather finish can make all the difference in creating a truly unique product.

The new Luna is a step in the right direction, but I know there’s more to be done. It’s a solid bag, yet it still lacks that signature look I’m striving for. I am now setting my sights on creating silhouettes that not only speak to the heritage of traditional leather working but also introduce a fresh take on contemporary style. I’m committed to pushing my creative boundaries and letting the craftsmanship of Ubrique inspire me every step of the way.

Having settled in this leather crafting hub, I now have unprecedented access to some of the world’s best tanneries. The leather quality available here is unparalleled, from supple calfskin to rugged full-grain hides, and everything in between. Working with these premium materials allows me to experiment in ways I hadn’t imagined before. It’s not just about the leather itself but about understanding the history, the techniques, and the processes that go into producing each type of leather. That kind of knowledge was hard to come by before I moved here, and now, it’s practically at my doorstep.

This access has opened up a world of possibilities. I can now select the perfect leather for each bag, knowing exactly where it came from and how it was treated. This transparency adds another layer of authenticity to my products, something I know my customers will appreciate. Being here, surrounded by top-tier materials and seasoned artisans, I feel like a kid in a candy store—but instead of sweets, I’m surrounded by the finest leathers money can buy.

As I settle into life in Ubrique, I find myself constantly inspired to improve my products. The blend of tradition and innovation in this village is nothing short of motivating. I’m learning new techniques every day. The artisans here have a wealth of knowledge, and I’m eager to soak it all up and apply it to my work. My goal is to not only keep up with the high standards of Ubrique but also to bring something new to the table—a fusion of my personal style and the traditional craftsmanship of this village.

For those who want to see the difference for themselves, the new Ubrique version of the Luna is now available on my website. It’s more than just a bag; it’s a representation of my journey into the heart of leather craftsmanship, where every stitch and every cut are made with a commitment to excellence. As always, I will continue to document this endless quest for leather knowledge, sharing it with you in the name of leathertainment.

The road ahead is full of challenges, but that’s what makes it exciting. I’m not just creating bags—I’m crafting a legacy, one leather piece at a time.