June 20, 2017

Interview with the good folks @ POKETO Los Angeles Ca

By Steven Soria

POKETO Los Angeles Ca

It’s fascinating that you are a third generation leather craftsman. Can you tell us more about that?

Yeah, so I never really had a choice as to whether or not to do leather crafting. My parents forced me into the family trade (hahaha, just kidding). I think it’s funny to joke about that with my parents, because I grew up with their leather shop as my daycare. They’re probably still surprised that I’m super into the family trade so strongly to this day. Running a small craft shop definitely has its challenges. The truth is, I love it. I’m proud of everything I’ve learned over the years from my grandfather, dad, and mom. They are really talented artists and craftspeople. I feel very fortunate to work within our family trade, inherit third generation tools, and make an effort to share the trade with others.

Where do you find inspiration for your leather goods?

Inspiration comes from many places– it’s hard to pin down. It’s fair to say that I definitely get highly motivated with raw materials, solid casted hardware, and leather that I find to be very beautiful. I’m constantly searching for new and unique hardware to add to my collection. Design wise, I feel like there are so many outside influences coming in all the time, and it’s hard to keep track of what I like, but Pinterest has helped me keep better track. I think it’s an overall compiling of everything I see on a daily basis, from browsing the inter-webs to art galleries and design shops.

Read more of this interview of the POKETO WEBSITE>>>>>