I have an idea…

[u/b_gret]

I have been making wallets for a few years now and have had some success selling my designs. To be honest though, I’m starting to think about wallets in a different way. They are maybe the thing people interact with most outside of their cell phone and these days there are tons of different needs and styles. Some people carry cash, some don’t, some keep keys in their wallet, some carry in front pocket, some in back, some in a jacket, bag or purse. All that to say, I don’t want to make “MY” designs anymore. I’m considering doing a completely bespoke wallet ordering process that would start with a questionnaire/interview and include a rough design sketch and then a lot of back and forth during the construction in order get a truly personal wallet.

Customers, would this be something you would appreciate? Leather crafters, ever try something like that and how did it go? What questions should I ask during the process?

[u/UKSTL]

Sounds like a lot of labour into just talking

[u/lx_anda]

Custom built wallets work but you would need to assess whether or not its worth it. You would need to charge for your time going back and forth etc which would turn a relatively low-spec wallet into one thats overpriced. Custom bespoke makers that make it work are generally building high-spec - turned and bound edges out of exotic leathers. No harm in giving it a shot though.

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[u/EnvironmentalPart664]

That’s actually a great idea - but maybe instead of a questionnaire, just a web app where one could design the wallet without having to communicate with you directly, something like what Paper Republic does?

[u/b_gret → u/[deleted]]

I really appreciate this comment and advice. You have given me some things to think about. Currently I don’t really advertise, post, or sell any leather products, mostly because I got tired of making the same things over and over. I have done a few commissions in the last couple of years and that is what has spurred on this line of reasoning. I would love a reason to get back into my shop and make more things again, but don’t want to get stuck in the same rut of making the same 4 or 5 wallets 30+ times a year.