Project Details
Every pixel tells a story, every line of code gives it life.
Leatherworks
Bracer
Date:
May 2026
Client :
Hephaistos Lab
Project Duration :
2 weeks
Design Vision
The goal behind the bracer was to create a wearable object that brings leather, steel, and technology into one clear form. The piece combines leatherwork, a wrist-mounted ESP32 control unit, and a small tanto-shaped knife made from mosaic damascus steel. The focus was on strong form, practical placement, and a clear connection between material and function.
The bracer was designed as a single visual and functional object. The leather forms the base, the control unit adds the technological layer, and the damascus steel knife brings in the forge-made material side of the work. Every element is placed to support one clear result, where leather, steel, and technology form a complete object.
Design Process
The design process started from the idea of a Lara Croft inspired bracer and a wearable object that combines leather, steel and technology. The first focus was the overall shape of the bracer, because the leather base defines how the piece sits on the wrist and how the other parts can be placed.
The ESP32 control unit and lithium battery were planned as a technical part of the object, fixed to a copper mount. The knife was designed as part of the same form, with the visible part shaped to follow the slightly curved line of the bracer. The leatherwork was developed around these elements, using wet forming to create the required holders and attachment points.
Process included:
Leather bracer form development
ESP32 and battery placement
Copper mount design
Wet-formed leather holders
Mosaic damascus knife shaping
Strap placement and fitting on the wrist
Design Outcome
The final result is a wearable bracer that combines leather, mosaic damascus steel, copper and technology into one clear object. The piece is built around a leather base, with a wrist-mounted ESP32 control unit, lithium battery, copper mount and a small tanto-shaped knife.
The outcome focuses on strong form, practical placement and a clear connection between the materials. The bracer sits on the wrist and lower arm, fixed with three leather straps. The wet-formed leather holders support the technical parts and the knife, while the visible part of the blade follows the slightly curved line of the bracer.
Outcome highlights:
Wearable leather bracer
Wrist-mounted ESP32 control unit
Copper mount for ESP32 and battery
Wet-formed leather holders
Small tanto-shaped mosaic damascus knife
Three leather straps for secure fitting
Leather, steel, copper and technology in one object
