Crafting Stories Through Leather: The Journey of Hand and Sew
47 6th Street, New Westminster
Nestled in the heart of downtown New Westminster, Hand and Sew is more than just a leatherworking studio—it’s a place where passion, craftsmanship, and community intersect. We sat down with Steven Enns who shared the story of how he started his business. Founded in 2011, this thriving small business has become a destination for leather enthusiasts and creators alike. We had the privilege of chatting with the founder to uncover the story behind the brand, the creative process, and what makes Hand and Sew truly unique.
From Industrial Design to Leathercraft
Steven Enns founder and owner of Hand and Sew
The journey began during a project in the Industrial Design program at Emily Carr. “Hand and Sew started in 2011 when I was attempting to make some shoes for a project,” Steven shares. “I had to buy some leather and tools, but after dreadfully messing up the shoes, I decided to make a wallet for myself. Then a wallet for a friend, a belt for my father… and it just grew from there.”
What started as a personal exploration quickly turned into a full-fledged passion and, eventually, a business.
Falling in Love with the Craft
A collection of cute and sassy keychains
For Steven, leatherworking was not only meditative but also incredibly accessible. “It requires very few tools and can be done right at your computer desk,” he explain. “I found I had a natural knack for it and fell in love with the process.”
This approachable, almost therapeutic nature of leatherworking became the foundation for building a brand that prioritizes simplicity and beauty in every piece.
Simplicity Speaks Volumes
They have a great selection of purses, bags, backpacks and briefcases for you to peruse.
What sets Hand and Sew apart in the leatherworking industry? “I value simplicity in design,” the founder notes. “I only include what’s absolutely necessary—no extra rivets or embellishments. This allows the quality of the natural leather to truly shine.”
This design philosophy has led to timeless, functional creations that deeply resonate with customers. A personal favorite of his is a striking green bag accented by light green stitching and a rich brown lining. “The colors and textures harmonized beautifully,” he shares. (Check it out here)
Challenges and Triumphs as a Small Business
They carry a wide variety of leathers for your dream creation
Running a small business isn’t without its hurdles, and marketing has been one of the biggest challenges. “I’m not a natural photographer, and I’d rather be making stuff than posting on Instagram,” the founder admits. However, by dedicating time to social media and relying on the power of word-of-mouth from their loyal customers, Hand and Sew has steadily grown.
And grow it has—doubling in size year over year for the past four years. “2025 is shaping up to be another fantastic year,” they share.
Inspired by New Westminster
Hardware is something you may not have in mind but they have you covered
Being located in downtown New Westminster has been a game-changer. “We have the space and central location that would be hard to replicate elsewhere,” the founder says. The proximity to the SkyTrain and the spacious shop make Hand and Sew both a functional workspace and a welcoming destination for customers.
A Peek Into the Process
Straps and handles gallor
Each leather creation starts with a need—whether it’s a laptop bag for a professional or a backpack for a bike commuter. The process involves rough sketches, paper patterns, and prototypes made from surplus leather. “We typically go through 5–10 iterations before landing on the final product,” the founder reveals.
Interestingly, the prototypes often find new homes with local customers, offered at a discount as unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Advice for Aspiring Leatherworkers
For those looking to dive into leatherworking, the advice is simple: “Fail fast! It’s all about time and dedication. If you can dedicate even 30 minutes a few times a week, you’ll quickly grow your skills and passion.”
What’s Next?
As for the future? “Hopefully more of the same! We’re excited to continue providing high-quality leather, tools, and supplies to our customers.” With a proven track record of growth and innovation, it’s safe to say that Hand and Sew will continue to thrive as a beacon for leather enthusiasts in 2025 and beyond.
Hand and Sew’s story is a testament to the power of passion, simplicity, and dedication. Whether you’re looking for quality leather goods, tools, or simply inspiration, this studio is a must-visit in downtown New Westminster. Check them out on the web or stop by and discover the beauty of handcrafted leather for yourself!
