Everything on my web site is truly handmade as no electricity is used in its construction. Patterns that I have made are laid out and traced, holes are punched one at a time, laces cut and then it is braided together. Any sewing used is done by hand. I've never counted exactly how many of these braided leather purses and handbags I've made, but it is now in the thousands. The braided custom leather purse below is about 12" wide, 9" high, and 6" front to back. This bag without the roll button, but with the butterfly applique (like pictured here) costs $350.00. A bag like this with a roll button closure, without the butterfly applique, is $325.00.
I received this email from Fran just after she'd received this purse:
subject: It has arrived
Hi, Dave
The bag was waiting on the stoop when I got home today. I spent a lot of time just admiring the workmanship and feeling the leather -- it's soft as a baby's tush. I really love how the strap is nice and firm and won't get all twisted around like the strap on the bag I have been carrying. The strap is also just right in length. The whole thing is just beautiful -- the color, the butterfly, the braiding, and it's a good, solid bag, too, that looks like it will take a bit of wear and come through OK. Most important of all...I got all my stuff in it with no problem. A very Merry Christmas to me and many thanks to you for a beautiful and highly functional piece of art. I will definitely tell everyone where I got the great bag and give them your card.
Have a fantastic holiday and I hope the new year brings you only joy and good things.
Thank you again.
Fran Osuch
And here is the text of her entry to my web site guest book:
If you have been searching for an artist who can create something beautiful in leather that will serve you well, be the envy of all your friends, and be worth every penny you spend -- Dave Anderson is your man. He is friendly, honest, doesn't waste time, and his work is truly awesome. I would give his business card to anyone without hesitation. I am very proud to be the owner of an Anderson Leather original. Fran Osuch
From: Iowa
Where did you hear about this site? web search
Here are some of the first words I heard from Fran:
Hi, Dave
I wanted to get back to you and let you know that I am very much interested in purchasing a bag from you. If the reality of your work is as mind-blowing as the pictures on your site there is no way I can pass on the opportunity to let you craft one for me.
Peace,
Fran Osuch
Thanks Fran! My pleasure, Dave
These two thumbnails are linked to larger views of them.
Check out these links to other braided leather things that I've made and read my guest book to see what others have said about the things they have purchased from me.
" Got my purse today! It's beautiful and worth the wait. I expected it to be stiff until I wore it in a bit but it's not. It was bigger than I thought it would be, which is a good thing. The hubby's jaw dropped when I threw out all of my other purses lol. Love it!! The two leather colors really make your workmanship pop. Received so many compliments on it already. Will contact you soon to order one for mom, need a bit to save up the money :). "
