Bio
Anita Jackel-Deggan
My passion for leather began early in life. When I was a little girl I would sneak into my hometown tannery in Germany, collect leather scraps from their dump, and glue little change purses together.
Later, during my 4 years of studying fashion design in Pforzheim, Germany, I rediscovered my love for leather. To learn more techniques about how to work with leather, I did an apprenticeship with a well known leather designer, Pia Petrini, in Berlin, Germany. During my studies, I custom made for my clients, leather clothing, jackets, skirts and pants.
In 1994 I sailed from Germany to Vancouver, Canada. I brought with me my heavy duty walking foot Pfaff sewing machine and started to design beautiful soft leather bags and purses. With my European fashion background and my thorough education and knowledge in designing, pattern making, cutting and sewing, I started my own business "Indian Summer Leather Design".
I love creating uniquely designed bags that are well made and functional, combining my European background with a touch of West Coast flair.
I have been in business for over 14 years. Since 1995 I have been accepted in the ‘Granville Island Public Market’, and for 11 years in a row the ‘Filberg Festival’ in Comox. I also have been exhibiting at the ‘One of a Kind Show’ in Toronto for the past 10 years.
Although there have been times when I had the opportunity to grow my business, I deliberately decided to keep it on an artisan’s level in order to be involved in the whole creative process.
Besides creating my product, I also love dealing directly with my customers. Over the years my business has built a loyal customer base. Connecting on a personal level with my customers is very rewarding to me. My business philosophy emphasizes customer service and a close, friendly contact between me and the person who will wear my bags.
There is a full warranty on all my styles.
Here is a testimonial from my son:
“My Mom’s bags are good because they’re beautiful, they come in different colours, they’re made with leather, and they are practical.
Sebastian, 8 years old, 3rd grade
