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Eileen Garcia Rodriguez

Manchester Met University

I am an accessories designer with an architectural background and over 14 years of experience developing handbags from initial concept to production. After specialising in Accessories Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, I founded my own leather goods brand, where I developed a holistic understanding of the product development process, from design research and prototyping to supplier collaboration and manufacturing. My practice is guided by a strong interest in the relationship between craftsmanship, construction and innovation. Drawing from architecture, I approach accessories as structural objects, carefully considering proportion, material behaviour and manufacturability from the earliest stages of design. Working closely with artisans, suppliers and manufacturers has strengthened my belief that successful products maintain their design integrity throughout every stage of development. I am currently completing an MA in Fashion Design Technology at Manchester Metropolitan University, where I am exploring how computational design, digital fabrication and emerging technologies can strengthen craftsmanship, improve adaptability and support more thoughtful product development. Across all my work, I seek to create products that combine technical rigour, timeless aesthetics and meaningful innovation.

Timeless Weaves

Category: Accessories

Competitions: International

This project aims to develop a strategic approach to addressing key challenges within small brands by reducing process complexity. It proposes a new handbag design methodology that integrates traditional craftsmanship with digital technologies to enhance efficiency and innovation. Inspired by my background in architecture, the collection explores the relationship between structure, proportion and materiality, translating architectural principles into contemporary leather goods. At the same time, it incorporates hand weaving inspired by traditional Mexican basketry, creating an emotional connection to my cultural roots and celebrating the value of craftsmanship as a living heritage. Its originality lies not only in the aesthetic language but in the design methodology itself. By combining digital manufacturing with handcrafted techniques, the project simplifies production while preserving the uniqueness and authenticity of artisanal work. The design also embraces circular thinking: components can be disassembled at the end of the product’s life, allowing materials to be repaired, replaced or responsibly recovered. Rather than viewing craftsmanship and digital technologies as opposing approaches, the project demonstrates how they can work together to create products that are both emotionally meaningful and commercially viable. Ultimately, Timeless Weaves is conceived to transcend trends. Through durable construction, repairability, meaningful craftsmanship and an enduring design language, it is intended to become an object that people will cherish, use and keep for a lifetime.

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