We were honoured to welcome Humile Mashatile, to our Leathercraft Winklmayr factory and showroom recently. Humile is a well-known South African philanthropist, a mother, and generally pushes for a positive change in society. Her visit was a significant moment for us, especially given her appreciation for quality craftsmanship. Humile first discovered our brand during a visit to Shanghai in 2025, where she was introduced to Leathercraft Winklmayr by SAFLEC (South African Footwear and Leather Export Council). From that visit, she left with a lasting impression of our exceptional design and artistry.
Personal Tour with Master Craftsman Hanspeter Winklmayr
During her time at our factory, Humile was treated to a personal tour led by our founder, Hanspeter Winklmayr, affectionately known as HP. He walked her through our meticulous processes, shedding light on what makes Leathercraft Winklmayr a name synonymous with luxurious exotic leather handbags.
Design
HP shared his approach to design, emphasising how he envisions creating beautiful pieces that reflect the personalities of the ladies and gentlemen who choose them. Each design starts as an idea before it's transformed into a pattern that fits perfectly onto the selected skins, ready to be crafted by our skilled artisans.
Skin Selection
The journey begins in our raw materials room, where we carefully inspect top-quality crocodile and ostrich skins from trusted suppliers like CKI. Each hide is evaluated based on texture, grain, and unique markings, ensuring that we utilise the best materials for our creations.
Planning
Our skilled artisans collaborate closely with HP to map out the handbag and accessory patterns onto the leather. This planning stage is a delicate balance of aesthetics and efficiency, aimed at minimising waste while showcasing the finest elements of each skin.
Cutting & Preparation
Next, precision comes into play in our cutting section. Specialised tools are employed to cut each piece according to the meticulously crafted patterns. Humile was particularly captivated by our hand-patching technique, where quill marks on ostrich skins are lovingly worked on, an embodiment of our commitment to respect for the materials we use.
Assembly & Stitching
During the assembly stage, the individual pieces come together through a combination of skilled craftsmanship and advanced machinery. Our artisans ensure that every stitch is perfect, and hardware such as zippers and handles are fitted to match our designs seamlessly.
Finishing Touches
In the finishing department, details are scrutinised. Skins and edges are cleaned and polished to enhance the natural beauty of the leather, ensuring that each bag leaving our factory is nothing short of exceptional.
Quality Control
Before our handbags embark on their journey to customers, they undergo rigorous quality checks. Stitches, symmetry, and piece of hardware is examined to meet our high standards.
Display & Presentation
Finally, our completed handbags and accessories are beautifully arranged in our showroom, ready to journey to boutiques and clients around the world.
At Leathercraft Winklmayr, our production system extends beyond technical processes; it incorporates a philosophy of precision, art, and respect for the materials we cherish. Our brand isn't just about creating luxurious handbags; it's a celebration of Austrian craftsmanship in South Africa and with a South African spirit and distinctly African materials. Each handbag tells a unique story of skill and passion, resonating with those who choose to carry our creations.
We are grateful to Humile Mashatile for her visit and for the opportunity to showcase our dedication to luxury and craftsmanship. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to upholding the values that make Leathercraft Winklmayr a leader in exotic leather handbags and accessories.