Le Savoir-Faire Lancel
A passion for craftsmanship
French maroquinier since 1876
I am a “Compagnon du Devoir du Tour de France”, the foremost French association of craftsmen and artisans. For six years, I “roved” from one region to another, one company to another, on a quest to perfect my knowledge. I learnt a lot. It is exceptional training and a beautiful experience. Today, I have set down my tools at Lancel…
What is your relationship with the designer? Is he the idea, and you the hand?
I am, indeed, here to realize his wishes. Based on his drawing, I must create the volume, the 3D model. It is both intuitive and meticulous work, down to the last millimeter. In order to fulfill his expectations, I ask him many questions: suppleness, firmness, dimensions… Once the shape is approved, we discuss the details, clasps, pockets, linings, markings.
The last stage is that of the gabarit. In our jargon, that is the template of each piece, which will be used for its production. My greatest pleasure is taking part in this transition from drawing to prototype. It is magical to behold the finished product.
Skin Deep: The power of the senses
The power of the senses
Leonello Borghi
My first experience with leathers was at a very young age. I still remember walking into my first tannery and being completely overwhelmed by the smell of the hides and the feel of the leather in my hands. It is to this day a very personal and sensual moment that guides me through the design process.
Another memory embedded in me from very early on comes from growing up in Florence, Italy. You cannot escape the vibrant color of the summer sky, the green hills, the saturated hues of the flowers and the landscapes of the region – they are part of you forever. My love of color is very much a part of this memory.
Later on, as I moved through the world, first to Paris and later to New York, my eye helped me understand the importance of proportion and line. By playing with just millimeters you can achieve the perfect silhouette and create a visual moment that is lasting and unique.
