We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Andrew Gomez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with andrew below.

Hi Andrew, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

i was introduced to the craft by a friend, he showed me a backpack he made and i was immediately interested. I picked up alot from friends and watching youtube but i got the most out of my mistakes. Eventually i would get hired at Louis Vuitton in the repair shop, this is were i really got an education in bag making and using different sewing machines. I loved working there but i ended up leaving for many reasons but the main one was to go work for a man named odin at “odin leather goods”where i work currently. Its only been a couple months but i have learned so much about running a business and how to make all kids of different wallets and bags. I would say the most essential skills i have is to repair LV bags and completely take apart a bag and restore it. I love restoring vintage bags and bringing them back to life.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

So me and my wife actually have 2 businesses, I do enjoy repairs and restorations so we are currently working on starting “Dallas luxury Restorations” where we will do repairs on all kinds of bags and also restore bags and resell them. You will get a bag for a fraction of the price and it will look brand new. It’s the smartest way to buy a bag. No need to pay full price. Then we have New wave artisans, which is were i take old LV bags and make new stuff from them. I kinda just let my creativity flow, i like to make all kinds of wallets, fannypacks and purses u cant find in the stores. We also provide a service where will take ur old bags and make new products out of it. It’s better to upcycle an old bag and get exactly what u want. Something customized to ur style.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I made alot of mistakes in my life, that led me to goin away for awhile. To be honest, it really saved my life and humbled me. I went thru some real changes and was able to reflect on my life. This is where i actually discovered my craft. So after coming home after 7yrs, i had to start all over. All i really had was my family but i knew with this skill i could start a business. Everyone loves leather products and all my friends and family were very supportive. Little by little i started to build my shop and learn as much as possible. I felt like i had enough fun in my life so i wasnt gonna waste time with that anymore. I had plans and goals, it was up to me to discipline myself and stay focused.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

At this time im still building my audience, i do enjoy making the “how to” videos. Letting people see how i restore bags. It does take a lil time and doin edits but my videos are better than they use to be. I believe the hardest part is starting and dreams go to die in the preparation stage. So i dont hesitate anymore in life. I do take videos and when i see a good shot i take it and just save it in my phone and edit in my free time. i try to post at least 3 times a week, and i make sure i have good clear pictures to post. Im always looking for videos and new apps to help me look more professional. Soon i will dive into the youtube realm.

Contact Info:

• Website: www,newwaveartisans.com
• Instagram: newwaveartisans
• Facebook: gomezhandcrafted leathergoods