A designer and maker of Tasmanian leather goods with an Italian influence, Ella “El” Jackson is the sole person behind her self-named label. She runs leather workshops and has an exciting new collection coming soon.

Tell us a bit about your work and what initially drew you to leather.

About 10 years ago I became very unwell with Chronic Fatigue. I crashed and burned and had no choice but to drop out of life as I knew it. I spent long lonely days dreaming about what a fulfilling life might look like within the constraints of constant ill health. I’ve always loved sewing, so I picked it up again as a hobby. I was chatting with a boutique owner who asked me if I’d be interested in sewing, and whether I had experience with leather. Of course I said yes (fake it till you make it, right!?!). That same afternoon I bought a massive old industrial sewing machine from Gumtree. What followed was a steep learning curve. I made every possible mistake as I taught myself about leather and all of its nuances. It was during this time that I not only developed a true passion, but I found the space to start healing.

You recently trained in Italy. What were some of the key takeaways from your trip?

Six months in Italy sounds pretty good in any context, but I achieved far more than skills in leather bag making. I was nervous leaving my family, managing my health, and diving into the unknown, but after a decade of figuring it out for myself as I went along, I needed to validate what I had chosen to dedicate myself to and I was itching for knowledge and skills and inspiration. It was transformative. I feel like I went over as a novice and came back fluent in the language of leather bag making.

How do you integrate the principles of slow fashion into your work?

Slow fashion is about intentionality. For me, it’s prioritising high-quality materials, minimalist design, and ethical practices. To start, all my products are made by me. I get quite frustrated by brands who are designed in Tasmania and made offshore, but they disguise the ‘made offshore’ part. It’s deceitful to consumers. Personally, I don’t think you can guarantee fair labour practices when you don’t see how the workers are treated every day. I’m encour­aging mindful consumption. It takes me several days to build a bag; I’m embrac­ing handcrafted techniques and traditional skills. My workshops also play a role in this philosophy, where you help me make use of leather remnants to create some­thing beautiful and sustainable.

What do you enjoy about running leather workshops?

I was once a teacher. Running leather workshops is very differ­ent to teaching Maths and Economics to high school students, but the ‘hit’ is the same. Seeing people feel comfortable and empowered to be bold and back them­selves. People are so creative and always leave with something they have made which truly represents them. The beauty of the private workshops is that they are intimate and tailored. This year I will be working hard to expand the workshops on offer, especially for those people who have been and would like to return for more.

Can you share more about your upcoming collection?

In my upcoming collection, I have removed all the ‘noise’. I’m going for clean lines, black leather, mixed metal, delicate design and lasting durability – where elegance meets endur­ance. The sexiness is in the restraint.

Who do you admire?

I don’t need to look further than my friends and family.

What was your first job?

I was lucky enough to have Scott McMurray as my boss at Baker’s, Fish Frenzy and Cow for my first proper jobs.

Your favourite place for…

Breakfast: Machine Cafe.

Lunch: The Longley International.

Dinner: Cyclo.

Parting words?

Chip away. Take a moment to ask yourself what you are doing and why you are doing it. It’s not a race, leave space for things to happen naturally. And f@#k what everyone else is doing.

You can check out El’s work on her website at www.ellajackson.com.au and on Instagram @ella_jackson_australia. Her products can also be found at Becker Minty Hobart.