Making a Mark

Etching new life into forgotten things.

I’ve always found myself pulled toward traditional, tactile crafts—coating my hands in anything from paint to sawdust. But Fadó Leather began because I felt a deep disconnect in how we consume things today. We’ve been conditioned to buy new and cheaply, trading investment pieces for disposable alternatives, and letting beautifully made materials sit forgotten in the backs of closets.

Leather is a material that polarizes, but it is also one built to endure for generations. That is exactly why I choose to source exclusively pre-loved, gently used leather bags and goods. Instead of demanding something new from the world, I want to make the absolute most of the incredible pieces that already exist, treating them as a canvas worthy of preservation.

Using a tattoo machine, I etch artwork permanently straight into the grain. Tattoos are such a beautiful, profound way we tell our stories and keep records today, but not everyone can—or wants to—mark their own skin for a lifetime. Bringing this machine work to leather is my way of keeping that tradition of record-keeping alive. It allows us to be playful, abstract, and deeply creative with the art we carry through the world every day, customizing existing histories to tell a completely new story.

Why Fadó?

Fadó [fah-doe] is the Irish word for "long ago"—the traditional opening line for old folktales, the Irish version of "once upon a time."

For me, choosing this name was a calling to hold fast to my Irish roots, to the deep resilience of its folklore, and to the stories that refuse to be quieted. It is my way of saying a quiet hello to my ancestors and honoring a history of storytelling that survived despite every attempt to root it out.

It’s also a deliberate choice. In a world flattened by globalization, native languages easily get pushed into the background—especially those that have survived centuries of suppression. Keeping the Irish language active and visible here is just my small commitment to keeping that history in the light, ensuring these vibrant, enduring roots stay part of our everyday spaces.

Two ways to shop Fadó:

This is where the one-of-a-kind, hand-tattooed vintage purses, bags, and wallets/goodies live. Because I source these pieces individually and tattoo them by hand, they are released in limited, curated drops. When a piece is gone, it’s gone.

Tattooed Leather

Apparel & Goods

This is a permanent, always-live collection of premium streetwear, hoodies, journals, and desk gear. Created in collaboration with artist Redoi, these pieces bring his incredible artwork into the Fadó universe, offering high-quality, everyday essentials that complement the aesthetic of the studio.

The Steward

Hi, I’m Lori. I see myself as a bit of an archivist, a steward of stories, and a creative multi-passionate who just loves to make things with her hands.

When I’m not running a tattoo machine over vintage goodies, I’m usually messing around with paint, photography, or whatever new craft has caught my eye this week.

Let's chat—ask me about my latest romantasy read, my dog Demi, or send over your best estate sale tips.