All workshop-crafted items are made entirely in the studio by a small group of local artisans and myself. We stain the leather, laser etch each piece, build prototypes, edge paint, buff and wax the finished pieces, and apply hardware like buttons, snaps and straps. Makr was founded under the premise that we'd craft every aspect of the final product.
We used to do it all ourselves – the sewing and assemblage of all Carry Goods – here in the studio. But that just doesn't make sense logistically for some of the larger product. Now, after each item is designed and prototyped in our studio, we drive two hours over to a family-owned factory where production samples are made. We then work with them to refine the processes, forms and finishes in order to create a product that's as high quality as it is efficiently made.
As a rule, we'd much rather sell-out of our products to people that care about them than to over-produce and be stuck with things that won't find a home. Our goal is not exclusivity, but rather quality and consistency. This allows us to be more flexible with our boutique retailers as well – since we can control how many pieces we make, we require no minimums for orders. We think it ideal to curate each order to specifically match the shop or space where it will be showcased.
We've been here. We've just kept a low profile for the past few months in order to focus on the new line and a large-scale project on the horizon. We're currently working with a Japanese distribution company to design and produce a full set of bags for their market, a country that is a constant inspiration for us. It's been both a privilege and a challenge marked by quite a few breakthroughs along the way. These new bags, although intended for the Japanese market, will be available in the US as well as select shops around the globe.
Our processes have really evolved over the last several months. The new bags demanded constant concepting and drawing. While most of the original Makr designs were drawn digitally, the newer pieces evolved through paper mock-ups, full size sketches, scrap fabric protos, and messes of tape. Working with our hands forced us to relate to the product more viscerally, resulting in an even more ergonomic and tactile usability.
What we admire most about traditional craftsmanship is that palpable level of quality and integrity. For us, the spirit that heritage companies express has more to do with the care and purposefulness that each item receives, not so much the production methods used. Our combination of modern and classic techniques allows us to reflect our reverence for the past and timeless products while still producing goods with precision and efficiency.