YUSSICO is a leather goods label and consultancy founded by award-winning designer and leather craftsman, Yusuf Osman. A lawyer turned leather advocate; his work he shares his journey of building a more meaningful life by slowing down, reconnecting with craftsmanship and appreciating natural materials.

Yusuf was introduced to the world of traditional British leather craftsmanship during a weekend course in the Cotswolds. Over the past decade, he has been building his knowledge through sustained study and learning all over the world. A winner of the Leathersellers’ Award for three consecutive years, his work has been exhibited in the UK and Asia and is recommended by the Homo Faber Guide. He has been a judge for the Design-A-Bag Competition and for the Heritage Craft Association, has walked the runway at London Fashion Week and has been interviewed for numerous press and podcast features as a leading industry voice.

The UK's foremost authority on fine saddle-stitched leather goods and a Freeman of the Leathersellers’ Company, he has taught leatherworking to hundreds of students from across the globe, including a number of very famous faces. He has worked with international brands including Jo Malone and eBay; has delivered workshops for ACAVA, the NHS and Lewisham Council; is an ambassador for Choose Real Leather and Leather Naturally; has appeared as a key-note speaker at APLF Hong Kong and Bangkok and as a leading industry voice at Lineapelle in Milan alongside the ‘Is It Leather?’ campaign.

As well as continuing to make pioneering accessories for customers in his studio, Yusuf’s consultancy [link to new Services page] focuses on championing craftsmanship as an alternative to our throwaway culture. Despite the negative assumptions which are often incorrectly associated with leather, Yusuf’s deep understanding of the material has secured him work with big-named brands, interior designers and fashion houses to help them work with this natural material, which sustainably connects regenerative farming, food waste and the circular economy.

Yusuf believes that many of the problems we experience today as individuals and communities, alongside the erosion of the environment, are as a result of our loss of knowledge around craftsmanship and materials. Reconnecting with craft and leather can help us to navigate the complex issues we face, and in doing so, we can uncover the threads that connect us all.

Commissions, collaboration, consultation, individual tuition and private label work are welcome.

With a proud legacy of nine years as a dedicated bench saddler in Walsall, I've passionately crafted 4 to 5 exceptional saddles weekly, setting myself apart in a predominantly male-oriented industry. In late 2022, I took a leap forward to establish my own business, specialising in crafting exquisite leather handbags accessories and English Made Saddles.

Beyond my mastery in saddlery, I delved into the film industry, spending six months creating intricate leather props. While some of my film work remains confidential until the movie launches, you can explore a glimpse of my creations.

Notably, my work is displayed at the Tower of London, a testament to my commitment to producing premium UK-made leather goods. Embracing tradition and quality craftsmanship, I am dedicated to continuing the legacy of exceptional British leatherwork and am eager to share my expertise and creations with you. Explore my collection and experience the essence of finely crafted leather goods.

EKP Leatherwork is owned by myself, Emily Porter of Mount Mee, QLD. A near-lifelong fascination with saddlery, and its centuries of skills, tools and traditions, led to the desire to learn and make. I was fortunate enough to learn from a traditional harness maker from the start, and continually strive to learn and grow as a maker.

I combine traditional methods with classic equestrian style, inspired by my muse, The Horse, and I love showcasing the natural characteristics and sustainability of real leather.

Every piece is made entirely by my hands – hand cut, hand stitched and hand finished, right here in the Moreton Bay hinterland. From design to completion, it is all done by myself without shortcuts or machines, resulting in a genuinely handmade, beautiful, and lasting piece made for you.

Specialising in
- bespoke bridle leather belts
- minimalist and classic bags
- custom work
- quality repairs.

If you value quality and tradition, and the knowledge that comes from learning things the right way; if you love leather and all things handmade; if you covet your own bespoke piece - then please reach out, I would love to hear how I might help you.