leather is compact, abaca is loose; where leather is supple,
abaca is unpliable. But what they have in common is
that they can both be tremendously durable and as a
bonus, fashionable.
The communities are one of the best and funniest
parts of the leather-abaca story. It’s actually looking
a lot like some cute couple’s origins and backgrounds
*wink *wink. On the leather side of things (Marikina),
people are on a quick-paced industrial mood. Bihasa sa
(accustomed to) hustle and bustle of city life. They are
proud of what they have, they know they got it good,
so take it or leave it, ganon. On the abaca side (Bicol),
people are so quaint and polite and easily-pleased. You
could feel how much heart they put on what they do,
especially when given enough motivation. It’s funny
once you notice how surprised they are when they see
outsiders appreciating their craft.
The thing is, they’re both very humble communities
that are also very in-demand, that’s why they go so well
together. They make us realize that we need to take
more care of nature in order for us to keep producing
local-made stuff with the help of our local people.
What is the hardest part of starting a new craft?
Everything is so easy nowadays. You wanna learn
how to cook, you Google. Wanna know how to make
stuff, you Google. There are a lot of channels that help
you learn even at home. But the hardest part is knowing
where to begin and how to begin. Introducing your
brand to consumers is not that simple.
Day 253
What are three things you recommend a leather
crafter get into the habit of doing to achieve more
professional finishes on their bags?
Start simple. Be patient. Keep going.
James Pereda and Summer Manzano of From James
From one starter to another, what piece of advice
would you leave someone who wants to get into
the business?
If it’s something that you love, go for it. If you enjoy
it long enough to keep doing it for years and years,
pursue it. The joy that comes in creating a product
passes on to the product and on to the user. So if you’re
called for it, keep creating.
View From James' product portfolio on Instagram at @fromjames_ph.
For orders, email them at [email protected]
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