Earthy colours for a timeless palette
- Michela handcrafts leather bags and accessories
- Her pieces are inspired by the colours of Tuscany
- She works with certified quality materials
Michela Francesconi managed to transform her dream into a tangible project. After various experiences, and working at home for two years, in 2019 she opened her artisan workshop in the historic centre of Lucca, where she designs and creates leather bags, suitcases and accessories entirely made by hand. Curious and self-taught, she decided not to adapt to a market segment but to focus on some specific values: craftsmanship, quality, tradition, originality. “I learned from scratch a trade that no one in my family had ever done before me,” she says. Michela creates unique pieces using vegetable-tanned real cowhide, which she combines with organic cotton and recycled nylon fabrics. She is inspired by the infinite natural nuances of her Tuscan surroundings.
Interview
- What is your educational background?
- I attended art high school and four years of architecture at the university of Florence, then I completely changed my perspective. I had several jobs, thanks to which I was able to save some money. At the time, supported by an unfailing desire to find my place in the world, I felt the need to build something of my own that embraced craftsmanship, tradition and quality.
- How was Calliphora born?
- In 2017, I decided to leave a permanent job to give life to the Calliphora project, with the idea of reviving handmade products. I felt this ancient craft attract me like a magnet. Maybe because real leather is currently the only material that, due to its characteristics, has no rivals in terms of beauty, durability and value.
- What inspires you most?
- I am inspired by the colours of the earth, mostly. My fabrics and leathers have warm, enveloping colours and are ideal for all seasons. To select and choose the combinations I take great inspiration from the palettes of the surrounding nature, from the tones that the different seasons offer, their countless nuances.
- What do you love most about your work now?
- Craft is my life. It is something that gives me confidence and the feeling of being someone. Creating is something which comes from within, without any warning: I know I will not be able to help it – like falling in love.
Michela Francesconi is a rising star: she began her career in 2017 and she started teaching in 2023
Where
Michela Francesconi
