William Stephens

I am a student studying mechanical engineering but at heart a maker that enjoys anything tactile, functional, and also beautiful. My leather working started when my belt broke... I needed it to be fixed and what else could I do as a maker than have a go! I taught myself how to hand stitch leather and from there onwards I found myself with the urge to keep making new and different leather goods, enjoying the challenge of pattern design, and bringing an idea to fruition. Prior to my engagement with leather, I have been working in silver and copper to create jewellery, ranging from necklaces and rings to brooches. My ideas come from a need to have something a little unusual; for my school prom I needed something that stood out and so what do you do... design and build a personal brooch of my woodwork tools, the night before of course!