Aleksandr Shestov

Artisan Organization: Aleksandr Shestov

Country: Silk Road

"I learned this craft through online tutorials and I started creating initially for myself, then for friends, and now for others. This began as a hobby in 2013, but has become a significant part of my lifestyle over the years. My goal is to bring joy to people through my products. I would describe myself as diligent and goal-oriented, always striving to achieve my objectives. I like to remind people to 'live in the present moment'.

"I work with natural tanned leather, using materials like vegetable and plant-based tannins, which are ideal for embossing. I utilize stamps for the cold stamping technique. I work independently, starting with sketching my ideas on paper and then transferring them onto the leather. Cold stamping and coloring follow, after which the pieces are sewn together. The final stage involves processing the surface of the item, selecting the appropriate treatment depending on its function. This can include wax, acrylic lacquer, or other types of lacquer.

"I find inspiration from the world around me and combine it with my own elements to create unique motifs. I take pride in using ecologically friendly materials, which contribute to the durability of my creations.""