About us
Legal Name: Lonaw / Operated by ONYOURSHAPE LTD
Hi there! Welcome to Lonaw.
We are a small shop in the UK who work with leather every day. Making bags is part of our daily life, and many of us learned our skills by practicing, observing, and working alongside others who have been crafting leather before us. These early lessons taught us patience, care, and attention to detail, which remain at the heart of everything we do.
Our Story
Lonaw grew naturally from our interest in leather and practical bags for everyday use. We began by asking simple questions:
- How does the bag feel when carried?
- Will it hold everything someone needs?
- Can the inside be organized easily?
- How will the leather age over time?
These questions guided how we shaped each bag.
The name Lonaw also has a personal meaning. It was inspired by a family dog named Lonaw who was part of the family for 12 years. Anyone who has had a dog knows the kind of loyalty and companionship they bring to everyday life. The name felt right — simple, familiar, and connected to something meaningful.
How Our Bags Are Prepared
Each Lonaw bag follows a careful and consistent process.
Selecting the Leather: We choose leather for its quality, thickness, and natural grain. Small variations in color and texture are part of its character.
Preparing the Leather: Each piece is inspected and prepared by hand to preserve strength and flexibility.
Pattern Design: Patterns are created to guide the shape, size, and structure of the bag and its components.
Cutting the Leather: Panels are measured and cut to match the design layout, keeping proportions consistent.
Stitching and Assembly: Pieces are stitched together and reinforced at handles, straps, and base panels for durability.
Finishing Touches: Edges are smoothed, hardware attached, and final details completed.
Final Inspection: Every bag is checked carefully before it is ready for everyday use.
Each bag reflects the care and skill of the people who made it.
What We Make
Our collection focuses on leather bags designed for everyday routines:
- Handbags for daily essentials
- Shoulder bags for comfortable hands-free carrying
- Backpacks for commuting, work, or travel
- Duffel bags for short trips and flexible packing
The goal is simple designs that work well in real life.
Why We Do This
Leather connects us with everyday life, the people we meet, and the tasks we carry each day. By making and sharing our bags, we provide a space for people to develop their skills in leatherwork, learn traditional techniques, and continue the craft that has been passed down through generations.
Our workshop is a place to refine skills, explore approaches, and keep the craft alive. Through our work, we aim to preserve these skills while giving people opportunities to grow and learn.
From Our Hands to Yours
At Lonaw, every bag carries the care, skill, and traditions of the people who made it. Each piece is handcrafted and reflects the attention and knowledge passed down through years of leatherwork.
We are grateful for everyone who uses a Lonaw bag. Your support helps us continue this craft, share our knowledge, and keep the practice of leatherwork alive for future generations.
