Stella Gikonyo made Vanessa a timeless black leather tote that feels elegant, practical, and ready to carry the rhythm of everyday life. What's your wish? →
View material & custom-made details
The Custom Medium Black Leather Tote Bag was made by Stella Gikonyo for everyday use, with a clean structured shape and a timeless black leather finish. It is a useful example for anyone considering a custom leather tote that balances durability, organization and an easy-to-carry medium size.
- Request: The project called for a medium leather tote in black with a classic look, practical daily capacity and a layout that could keep essentials secure and easy to find.
- Final result: The finished bag was made in black leather with sturdy brass hardware, a structured body and a polished look that matched the original idea closely.
- Design details: Key features included double-stitched seams, comfortable leather handles, a zippered top closure and an organized interior with a zip pocket and slip pockets, plus a contrasting lining chosen during the making process.
- Process: Progress updates documented material sourcing, construction and final photos from multiple sides, followed by confirmation that the completed tote matched the requested design.
- Helpful for: This project is a strong reference for anyone exploring a custom medium leather work tote, everyday handbag or smart carryall with a secure closure and durable hardware.
Every unique piece tells a story. What’s yours?
This design was custom-made exclusively for Vanessa. Let it inspire you: customize this design to fit your vision or start with a completely new idea. You chat directly with our artisans, and we handle the secure process.
A request by Vanessa from 00100, Kenya
I would like a custom-made tote bag in either black or brown, made from leather, and sized medium. The bag should feature a chic and timeless design, catering to both functionality and style. Typical dimensions for the medium size should be approximately 14 inches in width, 11 inches in height, and 5 inches in depth, providing ample space for daily essentials.
The tote bag should include the following features:
– Double-stitched seams for improved durability and a sophisticated look.
– Sturdy, comfortable leather handles with a drop length of around 9 inches, ensuring the bag can be easily carried on the shoulder or by hand.
– A zippered top closure to keep contents secure.
– An interior featuring one zippered pocket and two slip pockets for better organization of small items such as keys, phone, and wallet.
– A high-quality lining, preferably in a contrasting color for added elegance and easy visibility of contents.
– Optional: A detachable shoulder strap for added versatility and convenience.
The bag should maintain a structured shape to keep its form even when not fully loaded. The leather should be of premium quality, ensuring that the bag ages beautifully over time. Additionally, please ensure that the bag is crafted using non-toxic materials and eco-friendly processes, reflecting a commitment to sustainability in its production.
The Journey of Creating Custom Medium Black Leather Tote Bag
Negotiation & Planning
Custom Medium Black Leather Tote Bag - design ideas and artisan proposals
Good day Vanessa,
I am Gikonyo Stellar from Nairobi Kenya & I am happy to provide an offer for your customized tote bag.
Please review the attachments and let us know your preferred leather ie Black, Chestnut brown or Mocha brown.
In addition, we have attached a proposed design as well as the inside look for your review.
Upon color selection, we will share the contrasting lining for your review and approval.
We look forward to your response.
With thanks,
Gikonyo Stellar
The color should be Black and the interior ypu can choose what’s better .
Thank you Stellar
Good day Vanessa,
We appreciate your feedback.
We will go ahead and procure the necessary accessories and get started on your project.
With thanks,
Gikonyo Stellar
Crafting Process
How to make a Custom Medium Black Leather Tote Bag – work in progress
Good day Vanessa,
We have procured all the necessary items to get started on your order.
We will keep you updated on the progress.
With thanks,
Gikonyo Stellar
I trust what you are working on , Waiting to see the final product.
Thank you ,
Vanessa
Thank you Vanessa.
We are almost done, I will share the photos in the new week.
Kind regards,
Gikonyo Stellar
Alright Thank you♥️
Good day Vanessa,
Kindly bear with me.
We had a power interruptions and we are on track to finalize this week.
With thanks,
Gikonyo Stellar
Its okay !
Its okay !
Good day Vanessa,
Thank your for your patience.
Your order is ready.
Please review the photos of the different sides of the bag.
With thanks,
Gikonyo Stellar
Wowwww I love the Bag already it looks Perfect
can’t wait to have it , You did an amazing Job.
Thank you
Hey Vanessa,
this is Vicky, the local operations manager. I just received your tote bag and it is indeed beautiful! Stella used high quality leather and very sturdy brass accessories. The bag fits the idea you presented in the initial request, we are sure you'll like it and make maximum use out of it. I have shared more photos of different sides and measurements of the bag, kindly look through them and let us know what you think.
Best regards,
Vicky Achieng.
Hey Vicky
it looks amazing love
I cant wait to have it
Thanks
Final Delivery – The Completed Piece in Photos
Customer Photos After Delivery
The Finished Unique Piece – Individually Handmade
Reference: ON-AI-000018E-65418
Cost structure of this project
| Price | |
|---|---|
| Cost of material |
83.42
|
| Cost of labour |
25.95
|
| Cost of packaging |
1.85
|
| Local Transport to photoshoot and parcel drop-off |
3.71
|
| Subtotal – payout to artisan |
114.93
|
| Customer acquisition costs (advertising etc.) |
11.49
|
| Handling fee Urban Change Lab |
11.49
|
| Total (excluding shipping & taxes) |
137.91
|
- Secure: Transparent ordering & approval
- Personal: We support you at every step
- Fair: Direct local value creation in Kenya
Note on shipping & taxes
The cost breakdown above shows how the value of this individual project is composed.
Shipping costs and any applicable taxes (e.g. VAT) depend on the delivery country and the specific setup and are therefore not shown as fixed amounts here.
All additional costs are communicated transparently before placing a binding order.
If you have any questions, you will find our contact details further down this page.
