My name is Kalev Kivimäe, and I am a passionate leather artisan from a quaint town in Estonia. From a young age, I have been captivated by design, and I hold great admiration for those who invest their time and energy into crafting unique, handmade pieces. While I always felt a creative spark within me, it was not until I discovered the world of leathercraft that I found my true calling. My early efforts were met with challenges, but I embraced each setback as a valuable lesson, understanding that honing my skills would require both patience and perseverance. The pursuit of excellence is what drives me, and I take pride in the progress I make with each new creation.
There is something truly enchanting about vegetable-tanned leather. Its rich texture, inviting scent, and the soft creaking sound it makes are captivating, and I love how it ages gracefully, telling a story of its own. Each piece I work with feels alive, as if it holds a history waiting to unfold.
I cherish the tradition of craftsmanship, favoring methods that allow me to maintain a personal touch. The more I rely on my own hands rather than machines, the more authentic and meaningful the final product becomes. Every item is carefully hand-cut, hand-stitched, and hand-finished, crafted with the utmost care and attention.