Design

Did you go to school for design or are you a self-taught designer? |

This is an excerpt taken from an interview with New York-based, Elkie Soto.  You can read the full interview on her blog A Woven Life.

My degree is in International Studies from the University of Arizona,  where I focused on economic development.  I’m a jack of all trades type of gal.  I have worked as a fine arts painter for several years and have a natural eye for design. I learned to sew as a kid and have always been good with my hands.

Over the past few years,  I have taught myself how to design handbags and accessories by hijacking my step-mom’s 1960’s sewing machine (permanently on loan to me) and just going at it!  I sketched designs, rented books from the public library, dissected handbags to study how they were constructed, studied other designers by going to stores and sketching their designs, etc.  I’m still learning...it never ends!


I tend to dive into things with a lot of energy, a willingness to learn along the way and accept that the end result might not be exactly what I had in mind from the beginning. Some of the best art and the best designs happen by “accident”.

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Contemporary handbags and accessories celebrating African Textile design and sustainable fibers. Dsenyo (DEE-sen-YO) is giving a "Hand Up" to women and artisans working their way out of poverty.

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Colorado Co-op

(719) 389-0696

http://www.coloradoco-oponline.com

315 North Tejon Street
Colorado, Colorado Springs 80903

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About Dsenyo

Artist Marissa Perry Saints founded Dsenyo in 2007 after living in Malawi, Central Africa. Dsenyo is an ethical fashion company designing handcrafted handbags.  Our mission is to create jobs for women and artisans in Africa.  We practice fair trade principles and make every effort to use low impact-dyes and sustainable fibers like hemp and organic cotton.  Your purchase creates opportunity for others.  With Dsenyo, you will look great and do good for people and planet! Read more...

Testimonials

Alex - Berkeley, CA

Alex - Berkeley, CA

I carry the wristlet in jade and gold when I am out for quick errands or when I am going out and don't need a full purse.  It's the perfect size for credit cards, cash, cell phone and keys.  My Dsenyo wristlet also fits perfectly in my hobo bag and I use it as a wallet.

Watch Our Video

Marissa shares her vision for Dsenyo. Learn more about her passion to create jobs for women and artisans in Malawi and how you can help.

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