Herrin: Leather Weaving Artisan Community

〣 Location: Yangon, Myanmar
〣 No of Artisans: 5
〣 Specialty Skill: Leather Weaving

“Creation is an art worth preserving — a vocation that rewards patience, care, and the hands that shape it.”

- Su Htwe, Designer at Herrin

In the heart of Yangon, a small but dedicated team of weaving artisans brings each leather bag to life. Living in the villages surrounding an industrial zone, these skilled hands combine tradition, innovation, and care to transform upcycled leather into woven keepsakes.

Herrin – inspired by the timeless Herringbone pattern that the team of skilled women weavers first mastered – was founded in 2020. Led by Su and four talented leather artisans in Yangon, Myanmar, Herrin is dedicated to blending tradition with contemporary design. Every handcrafted leather bag and accessory reflects the brand’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

The artisan team comprises three weavers, one tailor and one person that handles quality checks. Each person brings a unique story, a lifetime of skill, and a shared dedication to the craft.

Meet the team

For artisans at Herrin, leather weaving is not just a vocation — it is a passion.

Than Than Aye, 56 years old - has been weaving since her teens. She transitioned from weaving rattan to leather in 2023, appreciating a material gentler on her hands so that she can continue weaving past her retirement age. As a seasoned weaver, she also mentors younger villagers, keeping the art alive.

Thin Thin Kyaw, 50 years old - is a freelance weaver with a wealth of experience. She joins the team as needed, lending her experience whenever Herrin calls for an extra pair of hands.

May Zin Htun, 25 years old - began as a quality control specialist in 2020 and quickly learned to weave, cut, and finish leather bags, becoming integral to every step of production.

Khine Zin Win, 29 years old - joined in 2024 as the team’s tailor. Formerly a factory seamstress, she sought more time with her son and now helps with bag patterns, stitching, and assembly.

Su Htwe, 32 years old - ensures that every finished bag meets Herrin’s standards, driven by her love of creating.

 

The Process

Crafting a Herrin bag is a meticulous, multi-step process. First, leathers are sourced from tanneries. The upcycled leathers are then cleaned and moisturised.

They are then cut into strands for weaving — even small offcuts find a place in the bags, ensuring no leather goes to waste.

Patterns are drawn, and weaving begins.

Meanwhile, other components such as straps, pockets, and logos are cut and polished. Finally, the pieces are assembled, and finishing touches bring the bag to life.