Walks in RED: Elin Angharad

In this month’s Walks in RED we meet leatherworker Elin Angharad, who shares the story behind her fabulous bespoke silver boots, made for her back in 2021. We visited Elin in her wonderful shop, just up the road from RED, to find out a little more about her love of leather, and how it all began…

Hi Elin! What first drew you to a pair of RED shoes?

I did my first ever leather-working placement with Ruth when I was in my second year of university. Once you spend time with her, seeing how the shoes are made, how comfortable they are, and how good they are for your feet, it’s impossible not to want a pair yourself!

So when I had the opportunity to have a pair made for me, I jumped at it. I’d never even considered owning handmade shoes before. Like everyone who slips on a pair of REDS, I realised very quickly just how incredibly comfortable they are. And to have a pair made by someone I look up to so much felt really special.

What’s it like running an independent business on Machynlleth’s vibrant high street?

It’s pretty amazing. Growing up in Machynlleth, you don’t always realise how special it is. The town has always had this lovely, eclectic high street and a brilliant mix of independent shops. It wasn’t until I moved back after university that I really appreciated how much of a destination Machynlleth is, especially considering how rural we are.

I never imagined I’d have my own shop, let alone this shop. I’ve always admired the building, it’s such a beautiful space to work in every day.

My business is small and very focused on process - making things slowly, carefully, and to last a lifetime. Since opening, I’ve really noticed how much people value well-made things and want to support the people who make them. The community here is so encouraging of small independents. It’s a lovely thing to be part of.

Can you talk a bit about your love of leather and how it began?

I grew up locally and was always creative, though at school I gravitated more toward woodwork and metalwork than drawing. I was interested in fashion too, but not in fabric! So I was a bit of a mix.

On my makers course in Cardiff, I tried everything: metalwork, textiles, woodwork. I enjoyed them all, but nothing clicked.

Then, going into my second year, I did a four-week placement with RED Shoes, and that was it. It clicked instantly. I fell in love with leather. Even though the things I make now are quite different, it was Ruth who sparked that love in me, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity she gave me.

The university wasn’t set up with leather tools, so I hand-stitched everything (which I still do today). Bags felt like a natural place to start because they didn’t require big machinery. The designs came directly from the material and the leather itself led the way.

What made you choose these boots?

I remember going to a party where Ruth’s dad, Pete, had dressed up as the Tin Man. He’d sprayed his Doc Martens silver, and I absolutely loved them. A few days later I saw him walking through Machynlleth (not in fancy dress this time!) still wearing the silver boots, and I thought they looked incredible.

I already had a piece of leather I loved, so I took it to Ruth. Since they were being made bespoke for me, I thought, why not go for something a bit unusual? And that’s how the boots were born.

Where have your RED's taken you so far?

I wear these boots all the time. They go with everything and have become a real staple in my wardrobe throughout the whole year.

They’re four years old now, and like all good leather, they just get better and better with age. I love them so much, they’ve been everywhere with me.

Thanks Elin! Great to spend some time with you in your beautiful shop. You can see more of Elin’s work here