Behind the design
The bag I almost didn't make
The real story behind Smithco's Arc Mini—a handmade full grain leather crossbody bag born from grief, on one Saturday, in a Cape Town workshop.
The bag I almost didn't make
The real story behind Smithco's Arc Mini—a handmade full grain leather crossbody bag born from grief, on one Saturday, in a Cape Town workshop.
An actual conversation with a client
Something happened in April that I haven't been able to stop thinking about. A message came in over the long weekend. Someone taking a chance—do I do custom orders?I do....
An actual conversation with a client
Something happened in April that I haven't been able to stop thinking about. A message came in over the long weekend. Someone taking a chance—do I do custom orders?I do....
A day in the workshop
Every day in the workshop starts a little differently. Some mornings I arrive with a clear plan—a bag to cut, straps to prepare, pieces waiting to be stitched. Other days...
A day in the workshop
Every day in the workshop starts a little differently. Some mornings I arrive with a clear plan—a bag to cut, straps to prepare, pieces waiting to be stitched. Other days...
Why I choose full grain leather
When I choose leather for a bag, I’m not looking for perfection. I’m looking for something that will last—and something that feels real. Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather...
Why I choose full grain leather
When I choose leather for a bag, I’m not looking for perfection. I’m looking for something that will last—and something that feels real. Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather...
The lessons that stayed with me
Some lessons are absorbed slowly and quietly. You don’t realise how deeply they’ve taken root until years later, when you find yourself living by them without conscious thought.
The lessons that stayed with me
Some lessons are absorbed slowly and quietly. You don’t realise how deeply they’ve taken root until years later, when you find yourself living by them without conscious thought.
In memory of Cyrus
Cyrus, my workshop buddy, sadly left us on Tuesday the 29th of July 2025. He was fifteen years old. Over the past three years, he has been my daily companion...
In memory of Cyrus
Cyrus, my workshop buddy, sadly left us on Tuesday the 29th of July 2025. He was fifteen years old. Over the past three years, he has been my daily companion...