Studio Other Industrial Engineer Verenice Macedo's interest in sustainable practices and design led her to craft wearable accessories from recycled leather scraps. Inspired by Steampunk design, the leather rings and bracelets she makes blend retro and futuristic aesthetic elements.
What is your passion project?
I enjoy making leather rings, bracelets, and unique jewelry pieces.
Why did you start leather making?
As an industrial designer, I am conscious of sustainability. I wanted to recycle unused leather by creating unique jewelry pieces.
How would you describe your designs?
I love mixing leather with metal because contrast to me is very unique. Perhaps because it reminds me of Steampunk. I have always had a great admiration for the Victorian era and the Wild West.
What's your inspiration?
As a designer, I have always been intrigued by science fiction. Retro futuristic items are my inspiration.
How long does it take you to build it?
My pieces of jewelry are simple, yet unique. They don't take too long to build once I have a design on paper. It usually takes me about less than two hours.
What materials are used?
I use leather scraps, leather thread, needles, a leather hole puncher, a ruler, metal stamps, and leather dye.
Describe the building process:
I begin drawing an idea on paper. Once I am satisfied, I start perforating the leather to add the leather thread. Then, I stamp the design directly on the leather. Once that's completed, I add the thread into the perforated leather holes. Final step is dying the leather and letting it dry for about one hour.
What has been your greatest obstacle and how did you overcome it?
As a full-time wife, mom & professional Industrial Designer, it can be hard setting some time aside to work on my leather and jewelry pieces. But whenever I have a moment home alone, I set aside some time.
Any upcoming projects you're excited about?
Aside from the leather pieces I create for personal use, I have been contemplating the idea of designing unique jewelry pieces such as necklaces. I have been using Illustrator and Photoshop to create interesting charms artwork. I am still exploring, so we'll see where it takes me.
