Daniel Savu

Leatherworker

©Daniel Savu

The beauty of simplicity

Daniel is self-taught in leatherworking
Besides leather goods, he also makes metal accessories
Some of the tools in his workshop are more than 100 years old

Daniel Savu has always been drawn to manual activities and projects since childhood. He comes from a large family, with eight children. From a young age, his father instilled in him the skill and enthusiasm for working with his hands. However, it wasn't until adulthood, after pursuing several different occupations, that Daniel found his true passion: the one for leatherworking. In 2014, he started to create leather pieces in his home and he opened his workshop a year later. He prefers to do all operations manually, at his own pace, using old tools and techniques. His muse and main supporter in business and life is his wife, Miruna, who inspires him in everything he does. Daniel pays great attention to detail and considers the simplicity of shapes as the true expression of beauty.

Interview

©Daniel Savu

©Daniel Savu

Do you remember the moment when you first thought of leatherworking?: The first time I thought about working with leather was back in my childhood. I remember my father wanted to teach my siblings and me how to work with our hands. Often, when I am in my workshop, I realise that I learned most of the things I know from him.
How did you actually start working with leather?: It all started with a raw piece of material that I bought. It took me a few years to make objects closer to what they are now. Maybe they aren’t perfect, maybe they never will be, but therein lies the magic of the craft. After every item that I create, I am thinking about what I need to improve next time. It will be a good future as long as I keep thinking this way.
What are your sources of inspiration?: The simple shapes of everyday objects inspire me. Also, my wife is my muse and I always have her in mind when creating leather goods for women. Wanting to make something special for her helps me bring my ideas to life. I create simple and beautiful objects, that will last – and hopefully be kept – for a lifetime.
Why did you choose this craft?: I chose it because I love leather. This craft makes me feel free. I can create with my mind and my hands. I can spend a lot of time just on my own, with my thoughts, in the workshop, and it gives me financial independency.

Daniel Savu is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2014