I joined Madison Stitch to explore how traditional craft could evolve through simplified, honest construction. Working directly with the brand’s founder, John Pryor. I developed bag designs built entirely from rivets and folded leather. Each prototype was an experiment trying to balance minimal parts and maximum function.
Leather Bags
William Waris & Madison Stitch
Studio Culture
Madison Stitch blends rugged craftsmanship with modern design. Specializing in durable leather goods made from locally sourced Hermann Oak leather and brass hardware. As an intern I was trusted with meaningful work and was encouraged to contribute ideas. The firm culture is open, supportive, and deeply connected to the local creative scene.
My Story
I was lucky enough to intern at Madison Stitch in downtown Kansas City. I was challenged reaching out of my comfort zone and designing bags. Another challenge came when halfway through the design process of my first bag I had an injury woodworking at home that resulted in a finger amputation. Without the support and patience of Madison stitch I’m not sure how I would have gotten through this roadblock. Despite the odds I completed all bags while healing from this injury.
Skills Shown
Leather Work
Branding
Fashion Design
Design Process
Independence
Pattern Making
Brainstorming
Market Research
Problem Solving
Flexibility
Overview
Stirup Bag
Pattern Making
Each of the three bags I made were designed from start to finish by me. I sketched, modeled, and prototyped each piece through paper and leather studies, refining geometry and joinery before producing digital cut files for fabrication. Handling the final cutting, making, and finishing gave me a deep understanding of how small design choices impact production time and tactile experience of the product.
Hexagon Crossbody Bag
City Clutch
Each bag from my Madison Stitch collaboration was featured on the runway at Kansas City Fashion Week, highlighting the intersection of industrial design and fashion.
Sketching
Every bag started with a brainstorming session producing as many different ideas as possible before picking one design.
Pattern Making
Bag patterns were made from paper to test proportions and folding methods, over 50 models were made with this method before moving on.
Prototyping
Split leather was used to simulate final leather feel, helping to finalize pattern and hardware placement.
Final Touches
Final prototype was made and tested in daily use to be sure it met quality standards.
Production
Once perfected bag is produced in a variety of colors and sold to the public.
For Sale at Madison Stitch