All beginnings have an end…

Starting with a “why”

Welcome to Olkmo’s Atelier! Where I’ll share the journey of my craft, the story behind the designs and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. But first, I suppose introductions are in order! Which is fitting seeing as this is my introduction to the world of blogging - time will tell how well it suits me (and you).

I’ve been hesitant to start this blog, mainly because it feels foreign but also because GenAI driven content is becoming the norm and I’m both curious and unsure how my writing skills will stack up. But that’s no reason not to do it. And while it’s a bit strange to open this door, I’m excited to invite you in.

It is tempting to say that I’m ‘self taught’ and while I am proud of the skills I’ve developed on my own, I never would have come this far without the incredible community of artisan leather craftspeople out there. The tips, tricks, and “sneak peeks” shared by other makers on social media have been invaluable. Reciprocity is the cornerstone of any community and I think I’m finally in a position I can give back - that I’ve learnt (and am learning) things I can share with others.

For over 25 years I have worked in the service industry, giving more than I took because I loved what I did; there is joy in giving. Be it a ‘law of nature’ or one of those beliefs that once developed and reinforced inevitably becomes a self fulling prophecy, but I really do believe we get what we give - in life, in work, and in all our pursuits.

So sitting here, about to launch a website (weird) and coming back into my workshop fulltime, I feel like I’m receiving more than I’ve giving. Yes, I put my time, skills and effort into creating leathergoods, and I’m compensated for this. But I’ve learned that I also have a responsibility to give freely — and that’s why I’ve started this blog. It’s my way of sharing what’s worked for me, what I’m still learning, and how I approach my process.

Early Beginnings: From textiles to leathercraft

My journey began long before leatherwork. I’ve always been fascinated by textiles - in particular, garment making. My mum, a fashion buyer and later a home economics teacher, taught me to sew when I was just six. I have always loved fashion - Not necessarily wearing it! And certainly not in terms of what is trending, but rather, the process of working with different textiles to bring out its natural qualities; easier said than done on a moving body with endlessly changing shapes. When a true craftsperson is at work, you can see the skill manifest in the fit, the drape and movement. Quality looks amazing and transcends ‘trends’, regardless of the era. It is never been about a brand or logo; it has always been about the workmanship.

In high school, I had the privilege of doing my work experience in a couture designer’s workshop. It was here that I got a taste of the kind of precision, skill, and attention to detail that would shape my approach to everything I do. I was determined to become a textile technician. However, life, as it often does, took me on a different path and so I took a windier, somewhat wilder route that took me through some very ‘interesting’ waters.

A degree in Business and Accounting, an MBA and a Masters of International Tourism and Hospitality management, a Cert IV in Outdoor Recreation and some life experience later and while my creative passions were pushed to the backburner, I never truly let go of the desire to create.

It wasn’t until a friend turned up at my house with a stitching awl and some waxed thread saying “hey, have you ever used one of these? Apparently they a good for sewing leather and sails...” that this began to change. Slowly.

developing Craftsmanship

At first, I was incredibly self-restrictive, refusing to invest too much time or money. I worked with blunt tools, a kitchen cutting board, and stitched uneven lives by the campfire - not a ruler in sight. But there was a slow, steady kind of magic in it—something I can’t quite explain except to say that once started, I wasn’t able to stop. I didn’t need a machine to sew, or an iron to press seams or a mannequin to fit the pattern to. Working with leather was accessible, controlled and grounding in a way that garment making (for me) is not.

Working with gifted, thrifted and discarded tools that I picked up along the way.

I had never seen myself as pushing aside something that was fundamentally mine until, bit by bit, my husband started creating space in our home for me to do leatherwork. Soon enough the tools started appearing, then workbenches, more leather, better hardware — and with them, my confidence grew. Soon, my workshop transformed from a space I used to pack away and unpack into a functional space. Leatherwork was no longer just a hobby; it was becoming my path forward.

From making space to a dedicated space… so far…

In 2021, I had officially left academia and freelance outdoor instruction work and instead committed myself to leatherwork full time. I learnt how to organise my environment to optimise my focus and productivity (thanks in part to a late diagnosis of ADD) and was left mostly speechless at how quickly goods were flying off my workbench. I didn’t advertise at all and had no online presence - just an Instagram page. Each product was getting better and better, I had time to do the other things I love in life - it was bliss!!

Then we decided to shake things up in the best possible way.

The end of the beginning...

We unexpectedly got offered a property in the Scenic Rim; 350 acres on the banks of the Condamine River. I literally stopped breathing when my husband told me about it. The conditions were that we had one year to get the money together. Our best and only option was to renovate, sell and keep our fingers crossed that it would be enough.

The first thing to go? My workshop. It became a storage area, then a construction zone, then finally a butlers pantry. It was a year of mayhem (and fun). I went back into academia while my husband worked on the house fulltime. We were covered in brick and plaster dust, had splinters everywhere and were exhausted by the end of it.

But we did it!

It still hurts to see my workshop in pieces, but zero regrets.

Only, we couldn’t move out there right away. For one, we didn’t have the capital to build and two, we still had other things to tie up in Brisbane.

So throughout 2024 I’ve continued to work in academia, doing leathercraft part time, while we renovate the house we are currently living in that belongs to family. ‘Reopening’ the workshop has not been a realistic option. Until now…

New Beginnings: Olkmo in 2025 and beyond

Transition may still be our way of life as we live and work through another renovation but this year I’m committed to elevating my work even further. In January I start off the year with the Dimension in Leather Conference and in February, I’ll be taking a year long specialised leathercraft course that will expand my skills and deepen my knowledge. As I work through the projects for this course, I’ll be offering limited edition, one-of-a-kind pieces to showcase the growth and innovation that’s happening in my craft. These creations aren’t just about pushing my boundaries—they’re a way to share the evolution of my skills with you, while maintaining a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

This year is all about consolidating and refining my skills so that next year I can release my own line of products - a line that I can proudly put my name to.

And as for 2026? Oh! It just keeps getting better.

We have bought a house closer to town - another renovator - but this time, with a shop front!- I can’t wait to open the doors to a physical space where I can not only share my work but invite others to join me in the process. Whether it’s garment making or leather workshops, I’m excited to see where this next phase takes me.

You can’t make this stuff up!! Words can’t quite describe the feeling.

The values Behind the craft

At the heart of Olkmo, my goal is simple: to create pieces that are as unique and well made as you are; Custom, hand-crafted leather goods that tell a story - and becomes part of yours. Every stitch, every cut, every detail matters. The precision of every stitch, every cut, and every edge defines the artistry behind the work.

For me, the journey is all about refinement. Whether it’s a custom wallet, a limited-edition piece, or a future product line, I don’t settle for “good enough.” and I’m guessing you don’t either. I strive for something exceptional — something that stands the test of time.

When you choose an Olkmo piece, you’re not just investing in leather. You’re investing in part of your own story. You’re choosing something for the care, dedication and artistry that’s gone into something that will stand out for its quality.

Thank you for being part of the journey. I’m excited to continue refining my work and sharing it with you.