The Creative Process

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I choose high quality pre-loved handbags and brand new purses that have a certain design, feature or shape that spark my imagination. The process begins with a few sketches on paper. When I have a design I transfer the image into a digital format allowing me to manipulate the image and see how it would fit on the bag, making alterations to the size and shape, colour composition and retouching. I never use digital tools to create a design.

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The next stage is to prepare the surface of the handbag to receive the image. This is achieved by gently sanding the leather with fine grades of abrasive paper, lightly removing the original factory finish, and producing a surface that will allow the paint to bond firmly to the leather.

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The prepared surface has to be primed with several layers of white leather paint. It may take several thin layers to create an opaque and uniform surface. The image is then transferred onto the bag after which I begin the painting process. The paint is applied by many light layers to achieve a smooth finish.

When the artwork is complete, the painted areas are sealed with Angelus Leather Finisher to protect the paint.

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I work entirely on my own in my studio. Each design I create is completely unique and hand painted.