Meet Oleg Rozenfeld

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Oleg Rozenfeld a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Oleg, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

To me personally, being the only one in the room is a chance to learn, grow, and make a real impact.

By embracing my uniqueness and perspective, instead of shying away from sharing them, I bring a fresh viewpoint to the room and whenever I feel unsure, I remember that I have a lot to offer by sharing my experience and expertise.

I find that my presence and success can inspire others and pave the way for greater diversity and inclusion.

Being the “only one” can be a catalyst for positive change. Embrace the opportunity to make a difference!

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I handcraft unique leather goods, each one imbued with its own character and story. What excites me most is the transformation of raw, natural material into functional pieces of art. The feel of the leather, the smell of the oils, the rhythm of the stitching – it’s a truly immersive and rewarding process.

At ORISHandmade I believe in creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also durable and practical. My designs are inspired by a blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics, with a focus on clean lines and timeless elegance. I strive to create heirlooms that will be cherished for years to come.

Currently, I’m exploring new techniques for dyeing and embossing leather, which I’m incorporating into a new line of products.

If you appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of handcrafted leather goods, I invite you to connect with me on
my Social Media and my Website. I’m always happy to share my passion for leather with fellow enthusiasts

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, three things were critical in my journey as a leather artisan specializing in custom leather wallets, custom watch straps, and custom-made belts:

Technical Skill: Understanding leatherwork fundamentals like cutting, stitching, and edge finishing was essential. It’s the base upon which creativity is built. For those starting, take leatherwork classes, practice diligently, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

Design Sense: A good design sense helps create appealing and functional pieces. Study design principles, observe trends, and find your unique style.

Customer Focus: Listening to customer needs and preferences is key in crafting custom pieces they’ll love. Be attentive, ask questions, and aim to exceed expectations.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

My ideal client is someone who appreciates the artistry and craftsmanship of handcrafted leather goods. They value the unique character and patina that develops with natural materials over time. They are discerning individuals who seek quality and individuality over mass-produced items. They are passionate about collaborating on a design that reflects their style and needs, resulting in a piece they’ll cherish for years to come.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://orishandmade.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orishandmade