Looking for a unique, eco-conscious gift or a memorable way to spend a day? The Elvis & Kresse “Design-Your-Own” workshop offers an immersive behind-the-scenes experience with sustainable luxury pioneers. From meeting co-founders Kresse Wesling and Elvis to crafting your very own accessory from rescued materials, this workshop makes an incredible gift for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship, creativity, and sustainability.
Imagine stepping into the workshop where luxury meets sustainability in the most tangible way. The Elvis & Kresse Fire & Hide Collection, known for its combination of stunning rescued leather and decommissioned firehose, sets the stage for this one-of-a-kind experience. Wesling, co-founder of Elvis & Kresse, explains, “We rescue leather in so many amazing colours and sometimes in such small amounts… we were trying to work out how to use these when often there wasn’t enough, even for one piece.” This challenge led to the creation of their “Lego-like” system, which allows workshop participants to transform small, seemingly unusable leather pieces into something completely new.
What makes this workshop truly special is that it’s not just a crafting session, it’s a chance to get a genuine behind-the-scenes look at how sustainable luxury can be both beautiful and responsible. As Wesling points out, "All guests get a full tour, an understanding of everything we do at the farm... and how we rescue and transform [materials]." This includes a tour of the farm’s renewable energy systems, waste water treatment, and even their regenerative farming practices. In other words, when you attend an Elvis & Kresse workshop, you’re not just learning how to make a wallet or clutch bag — you’re becoming part of a movement that’s rethinking the future of waste and materials in luxury fashion.
The workshops have been running since 2018, and every participant walks away with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and care that goes into sustainable design. “All the guests express such surprise at how long it takes, just to choose the leather, cut out the pieces, and then weave the panels,” says Wesling.
This hands-on experience is designed to give people a real sense of how much labour goes into the creation of each piece, which helps foster a stronger connection to the item they design and the materials used. "There is a lot of research around how involvement in the design and making process increases the owner’s care for and overall longevity of a piece," she adds, highlighting the long-term benefits of creating something personal.
And what better materials to work with than those that already come with a story of their own? Since 2005, Elvis & Kresse have been rescuing all of London’s damaged, decommissioned firehoses, which would otherwise have ended up in landfill. In 2010, they expanded their mission to tackle leather waste, partnering with Burberry to rescue leather off-cuts from the production of their goods. This partnership has been transformative, both for Elvis & Kresse and for the wider conversation around leather waste.
“These materials are significant because they are wonderful, and they already exist... using existing materials means we do a lot of things at the same time,” Wesling explains. By avoiding the production of new materials, Elvis & Kresse save water, energy, and carbon emissions, all while proving that luxury can — and should — come from reusing what we already have.
During the workshop, participants get to design and make any accessory that incorporates rescued leather, from wallets and belts to clutch bags and even luggage. The process is a carefully guided journey through creativity and assembly, with expert craftspeople on hand to assist. You’ll start by choosing from a wide selection of leather colours and textures, cutting them into the signature lego-like pieces, and weaving them together into a pattern that’s entirely your own. Once the design is finalised, the skilled team at Elvis & Kresse will finish your piece in their workshop and send it to you within four to six weeks, beautifully wrapped in reclaimed packaging.
Of course, no workshop is complete without some time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. A light lunch is served, giving participants the chance to chat with each other and with Wesling, who is always eager to share her passion for the brand’s mission. “We have a lovely lunch together,” Wesling says, adding that it’s a perfect opportunity for guests to ask questions and reflect on what they’ve learned. For those who want to extend their stay, Elvis & Kresse offer on-site accommodation at their charming Field House, or they can help you find a cosy local spot nearby.
Whether you’re attending the workshop for yourself or gifting the experience to a loved one, it’s clear that the day offers far more than just a finished accessory. “What you are doing at the farm is truly inspiring,” wrote Stephen and Emma, who attended the workshop to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary. Their experience, like so many others, was marked not just by the joy of crafting, but by the deep connection they felt to the ethos behind the brand. "Your guided tour of the farm and workshop gave us a real insight into the passion you both put into it," they said in their thank-you note to Wesling and her team.
And for those looking to make the workshop a unique gift this Christmas, it’s hard to imagine a more memorable option. Past participants have raved about the personal touch that comes with the Elvis & Kresse experience. “We are so pleased we came to design our bags (and a belt for me) with you for our wedding anniversary,” wrote Ian and Jayne, another happy couple who attended the workshop. Their feedback reflects what Wesling says is one of the best parts of offering this workshop as a gift: the ability to create something entirely unique and deeply personal, while also supporting a brand that’s leading the charge in sustainable luxury.
In fact, feedback like this is one of the reasons the workshops have become so popular. "You all rock! I LOVE what you're doing and modeling to the world of fashion," wrote one participant, who left the workshop feeling inspired by Elvis & Kresse’s commitment to change. As more and more people seek out gifts that align with their values, experiences like this one stand out for their ability to connect luxury, sustainability, and personal involvement in a meaningful way.
The Elvis & Kresse workshop isn’t just about making a beautiful accessory; it’s about understanding the importance of rethinking how we use materials and valuing the craftsmanship behind every product. “By doing this for 20 years we have proven that reuse works for luxury,” says Wesling, emphasising that this model is not only sustainable but aspirational. Attendees leave with more than just a handmade item — they leave with the knowledge that luxury can be ethical, beautiful, and built to last.
Whether you're planning a special day for yourself, looking for an unforgettable gift, or simply want to learn more about sustainable fashion, the Elvis & Kresse “Design-Your-Own” workshop is an experience like no other. With a personal touch, expert guidance, and a focus on saving materials that would otherwise go to waste, this workshop is truly a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability. And who knows — the accessory you design could become your new favourite piece, carrying with it the story of how it came to be, and the values it represents.
