About
Howdy! I'm Tina, the woman behind Akasha Leather. I began working with leather in 2018 after traveling abroad and taking leather workshops in both New Zealand and Vietnam. What sparked from a conversation about the need for (getting back to) working with my hands, turned into a full blown business!
I’ve been making things with my hands for as long as I can remember. Brought up in a household where sewing and crafts were commonplace. Sewing filled this desire to create, pulling resources together to make a unique item I could be proud of.
The admiration for leather goes back many years. I love the many uses, and the freedom there is in working with it. A quality leather item conveys the years of stories it's been a part of. From a basic tote to ornate floral carved boots, the sky is the limit with creation!!
Akasha Leather is the project filling a creative hole, fueling a passion for life long learning and personal growth.
I was hesitant to start a brand and add to the growing list of businesses trying to 'sell' something. But, as a consumer I know it’s the sustainably run brands, that make durable products, and whose quality is woven into every product that I love to support. Those are the products I’m proud to show off for years to come.
My goal with Akasha Leather is to create a brand YOU trust and love to show off! The leather I purchase is intentionally sourced from tanneries who are generational owned in Tuscany, Italy and who are a part of a consortium of tanneries holding themselves to the highest sustainability standards in the industry. Learn more about the sustainability practices of the tanneries here Consorzio Pelle al Vegetale.
The why behind 'Akasha' Leather
Akasha is one of the 5 earth elements, the element of ether. Akasha is the element that knows no boundaries and is limitless in possibilities. These qualities, light and boundless, inspire me everyday to create from a place of joy. To continue learning to hone skills that will, in turn, bring beautiful handmade designs that inspire those around me.
When I set out to find a name for this venture I wanted one which allowed for continuous growth as both skills and products developed. It also felt important to draw a line to Yoga, which has made me who I am today. Akasha is from the language of Sanskrit which Yogic texts and practices are written in and have been passed down through for thousands of years.
May my work be an honor to the animal they are made from, the Steer (male cattle).
Exploring the world will always be tied to my work.
Raised in rural Vermont, I love traveling and everything outdoors. After graduating college I moved west in search of bigger mountains and better snow. Making Utah my home since 2007.
When I don’t have a project on the table you can find me teaching Yoga or on the trails, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking or skiing. Plus, my husband and I love to travel!
We can be found in the desert of Southern Utah or literally anywhere in the world. In fact many of my designs are inspired from our international travels. Either from a particular cultural experience or because I found a need for certain items while on the road.
It's a big big world out there and I sure do LOVE exploring it!
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