Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Grossman.
Hi Valerie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Rocine Designs began in 2021 as a creative outlet, during a challenging time. As my mother was losing her battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, I realized I would need something to fill the time I had been spending with her.
My mother brought creativity into our family, she sewed, crocheted, quilted, was an artist and had dabbled in ceramics. I felt the best way to honor her was to develop the talent she instilled in me.
I began Rocine Designs in my mother’s memory and believe she would have enjoyed seeing the endless options for creativity. We both love color and different textures, and working with mainly chrome tanned leather allows me the variety I enjoy. Each piece I make is designed and created with her in mind. I love to create unique items, something special for the client.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
For the most part, I was self-taught in leather crafting. I spent time researching, joining leather groups and spending a lot of time at Tandy Leather in Mesquite, learning as much as I could. The main struggle is not being able to craft as much as I want to. Since this is an “on the side” business, I have to work the leather creativity around my full-time job. There is a lot to learn, I would love the opportunity for detailed mentorship and room for the equipment that would make some tasks a little less challenging.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My mother taught me to sew when I was around age ten. She also taught me to crochet, cross-stitch, and to use color and my imagination in everything I make. I took Home Economics and Tailoring classes throughout all of my school years.
In leather crafting, I use mainly chrome tanned leather, as it has endless color, texture, style and patterns. While I am inspired by other designers, I enjoy crafting custom and unique products for my customers. My products range from bookmarks to baskets. Everything I make is crafted 100% by hand, so while it takes a little more time to make, the satisfaction of the craft is worth it. I continue to learn with each product I make, and feel most proud when I design something completely from my own ideas.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I continually research processes and products, learning from other designers who have more experience. There are so many things that can be created with leather, and I enjoy learning new skills.
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