Denver’s Ember & Stitch: Where Leatherwork Meets Modern Craftsmanship

Denver’s Santa Fe Arts District has a new creative hub: Ember & Stitch, a leatherworking studio and branding bar offering both handcrafted goods and hands-on workshops. Founded by Tessa Guthrie, the studio blends Western-inspired aesthetics with modern design, inviting customers to create personalized leather items and connect with the art of craftsmanship.

A Personal Inspiration

Ember & Stitch is deeply rooted in family history for owner Tessa Guthrie. The studio is a tribute to her father, David Guthrie, whose adventurous spirit and love for Colorado inspired the business. Guthrie recalls her father’s encouragement throughout her life, even carrying her high school newspaper to share with everyone he met. Westword reports that her father passed away last October from Alzheimer’s, and she dedicated Ember & Stitch to his memory.

From Journalism to Leatherwork

Despite studying journalism at the University of Stirling in Scotland, Guthrie felt uncertain about a full-time career in the field given the volatile job market. She decided to freelance although pursuing her entrepreneurial vision, quickly moving from concept to opening in just a few months. She signed the lease for the space in November 2025 and opened Ember & Stitch on December 19, 2025. Guthrie’s eight years of retail experience provided a foundation for managing the business, while online resources and fellow business owners in the Santa Fe Arts District offered invaluable support. Specifically, she credits Alejandro, the owner of Afterglow Vintage, for providing guidance on navigating the area. Westword

Crafting and Customization

Ember & Stitch offers a range of leather goods, including belts, workbags, purses, and keychains, sourced from a wholesaler. However, the studio’s unique appeal lies in its experiential offerings. Customers can participate in workshops to create their own wallets, totes, and journals, even with no prior experience. Eventbrite highlights the studio’s focus on beginner-friendly, hands-on learning.

The Branding Bar: A Unique Feature

Inspired by Kemo Sabe in Aspen, Ember & Stitch features a “Branding Bar” where customers can personalize leather goods with custom brands. Guthrie aimed to offer a more accessible price point than Kemo Sabe, charging $5 to brand items purchased in-store and $15 for items brought from home. 303 Magazine reports that she taught herself the branding technique and orders custom irons from Etsy, describing the process as “tattooing for leather.”

Community and Events

Ember & Stitch fosters a sense of community through various events, including First Friday Art Walks, “Make & Sip Nights,” ladies’ social events, and even dog-friendly DIY collar days. Guthrie encourages solo participation, believing it’s a great way to meet new people. Westword

Location and Hours

Ember & Stitch is located at 918 West 8th Avenue, Denver, and is open Thursdays through Fridays from 11 a.m. To 6 p.m. And Sundays from 11 a.m. To 5 p.m. Yelp