Quito, Ecuador
Where Every Bag Begins
Our workshop sits in the heart of Quito — a city with centuries of artisan tradition. This is where leather becomes something lasting.
The Workshop
A Studio Built on Craft
Our Quito workshop is a working studio . Every surface tells a story: worn cutting tables, walls hung with tools, and the smell of premium leather in the air. This is where we spend the days manufacturing , and where every Auka bag takes its first shape.
We work in small batches, never rushing a piece. Each bag moves through our main designer Stephanie's hands.,
Visitors are welcome by appointment. If you're traveling through Quito, we'd love to show you around.
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How It's Made
From Hide to Heirloom
Leather Selection
Each hide is inspected by hand for grain consistency, thickness, and natural markings. Only the finest sections are used.
Pattern Cutting
Patterns are traced and cut by hand using precision blades. No two cuts are identical — each piece is shaped to the natural character of the hide.
Edge Finishing
Raw edges are beveled, burnished, and painted by hand — a process that takes patience and skill, and defines the quality of the finished piece.
Hand Stitching
Saddle-stitched using waxed linen thread. Two needles, one thread — the traditional method that outlasts machine stitching by decades.
Hardware & Lining
Hardware is set by hand and tested for strength. Interior linings are cut and sewn to match the bag's outer dimensions precisely.
Final Inspection
Every bag is inspected before it leaves the workshop. If it doesn't meet our standard, it goes back to the bench.
"We don't rush a bag."
Each piece takes 12–20 hours of skilled handwork. That time is what makes it last.
Our Materials
The Leather We Choose
Full-Grain
The highest quality leather — the complete outer layer of the hide, with natural markings intact. Ages beautifully into a rich patina.
Pebbled
A textured surface that hides minor scratches and wear. Durable and elegant, ideal for everyday use.
Vegetable-Tanned
Tanned using natural plant extracts in the traditional method. Develops a unique patina unique to each owner over time.
Suede
The inner split of the hide, buffed to a soft nap. Luxuriously soft with a matte finish — best for special occasion pieces.
Available Now
Workshop Inventory
These pieces are available for pickup at our Quito workshop or can be shipped internationally. Contact us to arrange purchase.
The Quito Tote
Full-grain tan · Antique brass hardware
$380 USD
AvailableA generous structured tote with interior pockets and a zip closure. Our most popular workshop piece.
Inquire to PurchaseThe Andean Shoulder
Pebbled cognac · Gold hardware
$295 USD
AvailableA relaxed shoulder bag with an adjustable strap and a single magnetic snap closure.
Inquire to PurchaseThe Mercado Clutch
Smooth espresso · Silver hardware
$195 USD
AvailableA slim envelope clutch with a wrist strap. Fits essentials for an evening out.
Inquire to PurchaseThe Cotopaxi Crossbody
Vegetable-tanned natural · Antique brass hardware
$265 USD
On OrderA compact crossbody with a front pocket and adjustable chain strap. Currently on order.
Don't see what you're looking for?
Every Auka bag can be made to order. Choose your model, leather, hardware, and lining — and we'll build it for you.
Find Us
Visit the Workshop
Address
Calle La Niña N26-220 y Av. La Coruña
La Floresta, Quito, Ecuador
Workshop Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (by appointment)
Sunday: Closed
Phone
+593 99 999 9999Workshop visits are welcome by appointment. We love showing visitors around — please email or call ahead to arrange a time.
Get in Touch