Kelantanese quits job as a graphic designer to craft leather items

Wan Noorazhardy discovered a passion for leathercrafting after trying his hand making a basic leather phone cover. Photos: Diana Yan Manan

Nine years ago, graphic designer Wan Noorazhardy Wan Ismail purchased a pair of handmade gladiator leather sandals made by a local crafter. The intricate craftsmanship of the sandals sparked the Kelantanese man’s interest in leatherwork, prompting him to try his hand at making leather products.

“I was captivated by the beauty of the handmade leather sandals. I connected with the man who made the sandals and we became friends. Over time, I became interested in learning more about crafting leather. I bought a piece of A4-sized leather hide, and I managed to create a simple phone case using scissors, nails, and a needle and thread. That was my first product,” says Wan Noorazhardy, 41, who lives in Kota Baru.