Ayla

16/06/2026

A chaotic workbench is usually a good sign.
It means ideas are taking shape, leather is being cut, thread is being pulled tight, and tiny vellies are finding their way into the world.
These little Chukka vellies range from newborn to 3 years old, because little adventures start long before little feet do. The tiniest sizes are fitted with soft suede soles for wriggling toes and first wobbly steps, while the bigger sizes get durable rubber soles for explorers who have discovered that every puddle, pebble and patch of dirt deserves investigation.
Each pair is cut, stitched and finished by hand. No production lines. No shortcuts. Just honest craftsmanship, a busy workbench, and leather slowly becoming something special.

14/06/2026

From my window

Some weeks, the work happens at the bench. Other weeks, it happens entirely in my head.
This week I've been redesigning a bedroom in my imagination, built around a project I've been dying to tackle: a handwoven leather headboard. The frame arrived this week, and I've been measuring, tweaking and building the room around it ever since.
Picture sage linen, warm timber floor and cupboard, greige walls, natural linen curtains, black steel accents, a lush pllant in the corner in a woven grass basket and an accent light pendant. Woven textures and plenty of greenery. A space inspired by nature, but with a little industrial edge.
For now it only exists in my head, but this is an after-hours personal build, so I'll keep you updated as it slowly makes its way into reality.
For now, though, it's back to the bench and some exciting new orders.From my window

Some weeks, the work happens at the bench. Other weeks, it happens entirely in my head.
This week I've been redesigning a bedroom in my imagination, built around a project I've been dying to tackle: a handwoven leather headboard. The frame arrived this week, and I've been measuring, tweaking and building the room around it ever since.
Picture sage linen, warm timber floor and cupboard, greige walls, natural linen curtains, black steel accents, a lush pllant in the corner in a woven grass basket and an accent light pendant. Woven textures and plenty of greenery. A space inspired by nature, but with a little industrial edge.
For now it only exists in my head, but this is an after-hours personal build, so I'll keep you updated as it slowly makes its way into reality.
For now, though, it's back to the bench and some exciting new orders.

11/06/2026

Small product. Big attitude. 😅
May I introduce the humble watch strap.
Watch straps may fit in the palm of your hand, but they pack enough challenges to raise a sweat:
• Tiny strap keepers
• Ridiculously small buckles
• Holes punched right on the edge
• Leather skived paper-thin around lug bars
Definitely proof that size and difficulty have absolutely no relationship.
Thankfully, I've had the privilege of making custom straps for some truly beautiful watches—and every tiny challenge is worth it. ⌚🤎

09/06/2026

This little princess is Bibi — the tiny lady who completely stole Shaun's heart. 💕
Every Friday, Shaun gets to see Bibi when he visits his client/friend in Paarl, and judging by how often she comes up in conversation, it's safe to say she's become one of the highlights of his week. 😄🐾
After hearing all about her sweet face, big personality, and royal attitude, I couldn't resist making her something special. So I hand-stitched this pink daisy collar, fit for the queen she clearly knows she is. 🌼👑
Some dogs fetch sticks. Bibi fetches compliments and collects admirers wherever she goes. 🩷✨

It's a pink revolution at Ayla

07/06/2026

04/06/2026

Some people collect trophies. Others collect stories, scars, and personal bests. Every fighter knows the battle starts long before the bell rings. These handcrafted leather cuffs, as per client's specification, are for the early mornings, and the champions who never quit. Wear your discipline on your wrist and celebrate the grind. Handstitched, rugged, and bold — because ordinary accessories don't belong on extraordinary people.

MuayThai StrengthAndStyle WearYourStory LeatherCraftsmanship AylaLeatherSA

28/05/2026

WritingA groom recently ordered custom belts for all his groomsmen 🤎
Each one lasered with their name, their role in the wedding party, and the wedding date — turning a beautiful leather belt into a lifelong keepsake.
I’m pretty sure they’re going to look incredibly dashing standing beside him on the big day ✨
This is what I love most about custom leatherwork… creating pieces that hold memories long after the occasion has passed.

Handmade with love by Ayla Leather 🤎

For more information on custom-made products, please  contact me on:

Michelle Grové | Ayla Leather 
📧 [email protected] 
📞 083 413 3302 
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/share/1XksKPyTQd/
🌐https://www.aylaleather.co.za