In the heart of Chelsea, New York, a unique and exclusive line of luxury handbags is drawing attention for its innovative use of salvaged materials. Spearheaded by founder and CEO Erin Saluti, the company transforms walnut wood into sculptural handbags that defy conventional designs. Each piece takes two weeks to craft and showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. The handbags are produced in small batches and released in editions, emphasizing exclusivity and high-quality artistry.
The journey from a block of wood to a luxurious handbag begins with sourcing materials ethically and locally. The walnut wood is procured from a Long Island company that specializes in collecting fallen trees from residential yards. Erin Saluti explains the unique sourcing process, stating:
“We get it from a company in Long Island that, when trees fall in somebody’s yard, they’ll go collect them. I believe we are the only people sourcing wood for handbags” – Erin
Within Eittem’s Chelsea studio, the creation process is as precise as it is artistic. The handbags are designed to resemble sculptures rather than traditional handbags, with interiors that follow the curves of their shapes instead of adopting a box-like structure. A Robodrill machine, acquired 12 years ago by Erin’s husband and VP of Manufacturing and Finance, Joe Saluti, plays a crucial role in this intricate process.
Alongside the Robodrill, the company utilizes an unusual tool to enhance their production efficiency. Joe Saluti shares:
“That’s an incubator normally used to grow bacteria that we use to dry our paints more quickly” – Joe
These handbags, priced between $5,800 and $7,800, appeal to art enthusiasts and connoisseurs of unique craftsmanship. The combination of salvaged wood and luxury leather lining—sourced from Weinheimer, a major supplier to Hermès—ensures each piece is both sustainable and sophisticated. Erin Saluti highlights the exclusivity aspect:
“It’s Weinheimer, which is a major supplier to Hermès” – Erin
“We don’t want a lot of these out in the world. Things lose value if there are too many produced, so we really want to keep it small” – Saluti
To maintain this exclusivity, the company limits its annual production to a few hundred bags. By year seven, they may consider expanding to 1,000 bags if wholesalers get involved:
“I think maybe by year seven, we may go to a thousand bags, but that would be if we decide to involve some wholesalers” – Saluti
The founder’s artistic vision is deeply rooted in her educational background. Erin studied contemporary art and design at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum and interior design at London Design School. This education informs her approach to handbag design, ensuring each piece is a work of art.
While the company’s website provides limited information about these handbags, they encourage potential customers to visit their production studio for an immersive experience. This personal touch allows customers to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship and the story behind each handbag.
Featured image from Eittem.com
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