Karras Leather is a craftwork studio situated in Psiri – the area in Athens that used to be the industrial heart of leather goods.It’splaced just a few steps from Monastiraki Square in the centre of Athens. I discovered Karras studio one year ago during a hunt for leather gloves. When I noticed the studio window with the real vintage styled bags, exposed with their original shapes and unique colours, I simply couldn’t resist and entered. Nice atmosphere, a traditional approach and marvellous items –was my first impression.
I re-visited Antonis, the continuator of a familybusiness based on tradition and creativity in his studio in Psiri.
The same nice atmosphere was this time enriched with delicious Italian espresso and an interesting talk about tradition and craftsmanship. We spoke about the history that started from the passion for leather design in Italy. The father of Antonis before founding Karras Leather, trained his skills and gained professional experience at Italian leather studios with a long heritage and tradition. He got acquainted with techniques and methods based on handcraftsmanship production.
The main aim of the studio is to design leather goods with the best quality that will be long lasting and recognized even after years of use. This is the result of deep knowledge and experience in the leather industry.
The signature of Karras Leather is a design based on shapes and a mixture of subtle colours – giving an elegant and classic look with a touch of uniqueness and comfort in use. Some of the designs come from the 1970’s styles (one of the most influential times for the leather products industry) as well as brand-new designs based on traditional patterns.
The paints used for colouring the leather are made in the studio. All the colours are produced by the craftsman himself, who mixes the compositions of shades. The metal parts like locks, clutches etc. are imported from Florence in Italy and complete the elegant and smart look of the bags.
The studio offers numerous leather products ranging from bags in all sizes to belts and accessories like cases, key-holders, wallets and many more accessories.
All the items are made from the highest quality calf leather. Such kind of leather can be firmly fixed with the possibility of forming shapes. The use of different leather thickness allows designing steady and comfortable products at the same time.
All the items are made from the highest quality calf leather. Such kind of leather can be firmly fixed with the possibility of forming shapes. The use of different leather thickness allows designing steady and comfortable products at the same time.
The items are mainly handcrafted with little help of the machinery. The final result is the most important as it reflects the craftwork: design, shapes, leather colouring, vanishing and wrapping – tasks that are taken care of professionally and with great precision. The effect of craftsmanship is always rewarding and unique.
For more information you can also check the online boutique of Karras Leather Studio where you can browse through the whole unique leather collection or maybe visit their unique place in Athens, Greece.
Images: Courtesy of Karras Leather Studio
Images: Courtesy of Karras Leather Studio
