Amos Gachomo Shuma crafted an elegant two-tone wallet for Franziska, blending practicality with style through thoughtful compartment layout and personalized elegance. What's your wish?
A request by Franziska from Raschau-Markersbach, Germany
I would like a custom-made wallet made of high-quality leather. The wallet should be two-tone: black and dark brown to give it an elegant yet classic look.
The dimensions of the wallet should be exactly 19 cm wide and 10 cm high. I would like a thoughtful compartment layout, based on the photos provided, to maximize your functionality and facilitate organization. Please consider the following details for the compartments:
1. multiple card compartments to hold at least 10 cards. The card slots should be designed in such a way that they are easily accessible and the cards are well fixed.
2. two compartments for bills, which uses the entire width of the wallet to accommodate large bills.
3. a small coin compartment, preferably with a zipper to ensure a secure closure and prevent coins from falling out.
4. a transparent compartment for ID cards or photos.
The edges of the wallet should be neatly finished, possibly with additional stitching for added durability and a high-quality look. The inner lining should also be made of a smooth leather or a high-quality fabric that matches the outer color scheme.
Please make sure that all leather parts are evenly colored and do not have any color irregularities. The closure of the wallet should be secure yet easy to use, either with a push button or a magnetic closure. I would like to have an embossed or embroidered personalization with my initials on the inside of the wallet, if possible.
Thank you for your efforts in meeting these specified requirements to create a wallet that is not only functional but also a stylish accessory.
The Journey of Creating Elegant Two-Tone Leather Wallet, Custom-Made
Negotiation & Planning
Hello Franziska,
Thank you for sharing your detailed vision for the custom-made wallet. Your focus on both style and functionality comes through clearly, and we're excited to help bring this design to life for you.
Based on your description, it looks like you've provided a comprehensive idea of the layout you wish for. Here are a few thoughts and questions to ensure every aspect aligns with your preferences:
- For the card compartments, you indicated hold of at least 10 cards. As per the pictures you attached, I can count 6 slots on the side with passport holder and 4 slots on the opposite side. Is that distribution how you'd like it? Because with the specification on dimensions we'd like to be very certain about how you'd like the cards to be distributed.
- On the transparent compartment for ID cards or photos, do you have a preference for the type of material covering it (e.g., a clear plastic or the mesh material visible on your current wallet)?
- For the personalization with your initials, what initials would you like added? At what section of the wallet exactly and would Engraving be an option?
-For the coin compartment, I see two compartments with zippers. I believe one of them serves as the coin compartment. Am I correct?
- Lastly,Your specific color choice of black and dark brown gives the wallet an elegant appeal, and we'll ensure the leather and lining are of top quality to match your expectations. Would you like to share any input on how you'd prefer the two colors, black and dark brown, to be matched on the Wallet?
Feel free to let us know if there's anything else you’d like to discuss or clarify further. We're here to ensure this wallet perfectly suits your needs and style. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Denis.
Hello Dennis,
I will answer your questions one by one:
- I would like to have the distribution of the card compartments exactly as shown in the pictures and described by you.
- I would like the transparent compartment to be as shown in the photos (mesh)
- The initials are F.L. and may be visible on the inside - I don't care where exactly.
- The inner compartments should be divided as shown in the picture: a double compartment that closes with a zipper and a double compartment for bills without a zipper right next to it.
- I would like the color combination to be either a simple pattern with accents of both colors on the outside and brown on the inside. (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Greetings. Thank you for your elaborate and prompt response.
-One last clarification. On image 215858, I can't seem to quite make the exact location of that compartment in relation to the rest of the wallet. Is it in the exterior of the wallet or interior?
I believe everything else is clear and I'm ready to begin the sourcing of materials needed for the craft process. In case I need any further clarification, I'll definitely reach out. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Denis.
Hello Denis,
The compartment is on the outside of the back of the wallet.
Yours sincerely,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Aah. Now it makes sense.
I think so far I have everything I need. I'll also be in touch soon so we can choose leather and begin the process. Thank you so much and I wish you a great weekend.
Kind regards,
Denis.
Crafting Process
Artisan’s Progress Updates
Hello Franziska,,
Greetings. I hope you are doing well. I'd like to share images of leather in dark brown and black. Kindly find attached files on the same. Looking forward to hearing what you think. Thank you.
Warm regards,
Denis.
Hello Denis,
the leather looks beautiful. I'm curious to see how you design it.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Thank you for the response and apologies on the delay. We had experienced a challenge sourcing those exact shades but we finally acquired them yesterday and we're currently in the process of developing suitable patterns of the wallet then proceed on to production. I'll keep you updated as we also can't wait to see how it turns out. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Denis.
Hello Denis,
I'm looking forward to seeing how you design the pattern. I like an elegant look.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
As we're dissecting that wallet to create it's pattern we realized one area I'd like to seek clarification regarding one of the two zipper compartments. I've attached an image and highlighted the same. Does the zipper open to the side of the wallet all the way to the base? If so, I would appreciate side view images of the same so that we put that in consideration during production. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Denis.
Hello Denis,
the zipper can be opened to the bottom, but only closed to the top. I will send you photos.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Thank you for that clarification. Also kindly find attached images of threads in mustard and dark brown. Which would you prefer we use? Thank you.
Kind regards,
Denis.
Hello Dennis,
I like mustard brown better.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Greetings. I hope you are doing well. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen personal circumstances I am unable to finish your project. I reached out to Urban Change Lab to assign the request to another artisan. Sorry for the inconvenience. I hope for your understanding.
Best Regards,
Dennis.
Hello Dennis,
that's a great pity! All the best to you.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
I’m Amos and would like to work with you to create your product. After reviewing your earlier conversations with mr Dennis, I have a clear understanding of your needs.
From your reference photos, I see you want a black front panel paired with dark brown leather for the rest. I’ll start sourcing materials and send you photos of each one for approval before moving forward.
Thank you for the opportunity. I’ll ensure the final product matches your vision and quality standards.
Best regards,
Amos
Hello Amos,
Thank you for your email. I'm looking forward to working with you. For the design of the wallet, I would be happy about a deviation from my current model - maybe a graphic design or symmetrical pattern? I'm sure you have good ideas!
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
**Subject:** Wallet Design Specifications Request
Hello Franziska
Thank you for your trust! To ensure the new design aligns seamlessly with your vision, kindly confirm:
1. Features to Retain: Any pockets, card slots, closures, or materials from your current design.
2. Dimensions:Preferred size (e.g., folded/unfolded length/width).
3. Additional Notes, symbolic elements, or functional priorities.
I’ll draft concepts based on your input and share them promptly.
Best regards,
Amis
Hello Amis,
yes, please keep everything as listed above. Only the design (color, pattern) may be different.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Dear Franziska,
I hope this message finds you well. Thank you for sharing your initial thoughts on the design—your input is invaluable as we work to refine it.
To ensure the final version aligns perfectly with your vision, could I kindly ask you to elaborate on any specific changes or adjustments you’d like to see? If no revisions are requested, the design will remain largely unchanged. Please let me know if there are particular elements (e.g., layout, color scheme, typography) you’d like us to revisit or modify in more detail.
Your clarity will help us prioritize updates efficiently and deliver a result that meets your expectations. Feel free to share any additional notes or schedule a brief call if you prefer to discuss further.
Thank you for your time and guidance—I look forward to your feedback.
Thanks
Hello Denis,
Have you already sent photos for me to match?
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
I have shared some reference photos that could help guide the redesign efforts? Your insights would be invaluable in ensuring we align with the project’s vision.
If you need any clarification or additional details, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Thank you for your assistance!
Best regards,
Amos
Hello Amos,
The design in the split pictures looks good. But I don't want a zipper on the back, just an open compartment as you can see on the pictures of my current wallet.
Kind regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hi Franziska,
Thank you so much for clarifying your preferences—this is super helpful! No problem at all—I’ll remove the zipper from the back compartment and keep it open, just like your current wallet. I’ll make sure the layout stays clean and functional, matching the style you love.
For the photo slot, I’d love to confirm: since mesh isn’t available, would a clear vinyl material work for displaying your photos? It’ll keep them secure while the photo will be visible.
Everything else in the design (like the split panels and overall structure) will stay aligned with your vision. Let me know if you’d like to tweak anything else, and I’ll happily adjust!
Warm regards,
Amos
Hello Amos,
Too bad that no net is possible for the photos. If no net is possible, then the transparent compartment is fine.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Thank you for your prompt reply. I will forward photos of the materials shortly for your review and approval.
Appreciate your guidance.
Best regards,
Amos
Hello Amos,
Too bad that no net is possible for the photos. If no net is possible, then the transparent compartment is fine.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska
Please find the leather to be used and thread, I will share the process.
Thanks
Hello Amos,
I really like the leather and thread in your picture.
Best regards (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska.
Thanks I will keep you updated.
Best regards.
Perfect (Automatic translation)
Thanks
Did you have a question, Amos? (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska
I have no questions at the moment. Thanks. I will update you soon.
Thanks
Hello Amos,
I keep getting emails saying that my feedback is needed, but I don't see any messages here in the chat. Do you know what's going on?
Best regards (Automatic translation)
Dear Franziska,
The system is designed to maintain consistent communication between artisans and clients, ensuring a seamless experience aligned with expectations. Regarding updates, the system will first prompt you to confirm before sharing any information, prioritizing clarity and intentionality.
Kind regards,
Amos
Thank you (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
Here’s an update on the project: I’ve finished cutting the patterns and will begin cutting the leather shortly. I’ll continue to keep you informed at every stage. Thank you for your patience—I appreciate your understanding as we move forward.
Best regards,
Amos
Hello Amos,
That looks interesting. Looking forward to the progress of your work.
Best regards,
Franziska (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska
Thanks for the feedback I will definitely keep you posted, I am cutting the leather today.
Thanks
👍 (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska
The wallet is taking shape.
Thanks for you patience
👍 (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska
Your product is ready, please find the photos sent.
Thanks
That looks great! I am very happy (Automatic translation)
Hello Franziska,
I’ve just completed the quality check for your custom wallet, and I’m really happy to let you know that it turned out beautifully. Amos followed your specifications very closely—from the two-tone black and dark brown leather to the thoughtful compartment layout you described. The leather is of excellent quality, and the color combination gives the wallet a very classic, elegant feel.
The compartments are all in place: 10 card slots, 2 bill sections, 1 coin compartment with a zipper, and even the transparent ID slot. The cards fit well and and the slots feel sturdy. The stitching is super neat and clean, and both the leather and the stitching are of great quality—it really looks like a wallet that will last a long time. The inner linings also match nicely, and even the zipper colors complements the overall design.
The only detail that wasn’t included is the personalized embossing with your initials on the inside. Please let us know if this is a key detail for you—we’re happy to send the wallet back to Amos so that he can add it, or proceed with shipping as is, if you're satisfied with the current finish.
Looking forward to your feedback!
Warmest regards,
Vicky
I really like the wallet as it is! Thank you very much. It can stay like this 🙂 (Automatic translation)
The Finished Unique Piece – Individually Handmade
Reference: ON-AI-000060D-76101
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Price | |
|---|---|
| Cost of material |
39.16
|
| Cost of labour |
31.33
|
| Cost of packaging |
3.92
|
| Cost of delivery to local operations manager |
3.92
|
| Subtotal – payout to artisan |
78.33
|
| Customer acquisition costs (advertising etc.) |
7.83
|
| Handling fee Urban Change Lab |
7.83
|
| Shipping costs from Kenya to Germany* |
25.31
|
| VAT (Germany)* |
22.67
|
| Total |
141.97
|
*Shipping costs and VAT vary depending on your location.
