BEHIND THE CRAFTSMAN
Charles Laurie London is British leather goods house founded in 2016 by craftsman and designer Charlie Laurie. With over 15 years’ experience in the industry, Charlie and his team design and manufacture every piece entirely by hand, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.
Inspired by his ancestor, who ran a saddlery business on Oxford Street in the 1800s, Charlie began his leather working journey at Capel Manor College in 2009. Upon graduating, he was awarded the Excellence in Saddlery Bursary by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, before going on to apprentice with one of London’s finest leather goods manufacturers.
There, Charlie was trained by some of the most skilled leather workers in the country; craftspeople with decades of experience, many spanning over 50 years in the trade. This period proved formative, allowing him to develop exceptional technical skill and a deep understanding of leather craft.
In 2016, armed with this knowledge and driven by a desire to create his own vision, Charlie founded Charles Laurie London. He was awarded the prestigious Cockpit Arts Leathersellers’ Award and Bursary for three consecutive years, recognising both his craftsmanship and innovation.
Now based in the East Midlands, historically the heart of British leather craft, Charlie’s studio offers a full bespoke service alongside carefully curated collections defined by precision, heritage, and enduring quality.
The studio also creates bespoke leather pieces for interior designers, collaborating on custom elements for both residential and commercial projects.
Photo by Alun Callender
“Charles Laurie have mastered the stylish essential, their timeless designs will never age”
“Today, Charles Laurie’s discerning clients appreciate his outstanding craftsmanship and his modern take on timeless classics: rounded edges; a subtle twist on the classic handle or strap; a pocket or compartment in an unexpected position; stunning combinations of colours such as the black leather matched with burgundy suede pigskin lining in his beautiful, slim Handle Folio coveted by men and women alike.These are the hallmarks of a Charles Laurie creation, an approach that combines beauty, quality, practicality and the occasional whimsical detail. Laurie’s creations are always discreet, whispering rather than shouting their pedigree.”