TREASURES IN LEATHER

AT THE TEXAS FARMERS’ Market at Mueller, tucked among vibrant produce stands and artisan vendors, there’s a striking stall facing Kerbey Lane Café that always draws a crowd. It’s stocked with an eye-catching array of handcrafted leather goods, from cowboy boot keychains to colorful wallets and Texas-themed trinkets. For many regular marketgoers, it’s a go-to for browsing between picking up farm-fresh veggies or sipping coffee. But beyond the charming exterior lies a story of creative vision, craftsmanship and local pride, all thanks to the founder, Katrina Marhefka.

Marhefka’s journey began in 2007 when she started designing and selling jewelry. While her pieces were well received, she quickly noticed a major gap in the market: men’s accessories. “I noticed that men’s goods simply lacked the creativity of women’s gifts,” she explains. “They were basic, boring and uninspired. I wasn’t seeing any color with leather, much less pairing colors together.”

Determined to fill that gap, she leaned on her background in graphic design to bring new life into men’s leather goods. What began as a creative side hustle soon evolved into a full-fledged brand—Espacio Handmade, officially launched in 2013.

Unlike the standard fare of brown and black wallets, Marhefka’s designs stand out for their bold color combinations, functional designs and refined details. “Men want quality, but they also want something that reflects their personality. I saw that opportunity and ran with it.”

HANDMADE WITH CARE

Espacio Handmade is more than just a leather goods company—it’s a statement about craftsmanship, sustainability, and intentional living. Each product is made by hand in small batches from premium leathers sourced responsibly. One of the most compelling aspects of the business is how sustainability is woven into its very fabric.

“I use the off-cuts from larger pieces—like wallet scraps—to create the smaller items, like keychains or wine charms,” she says. “It keeps materials out of the landfill and gives even the tiniest pieces of leather new life.” This approach not only reduces waste but also allows her to offer a diverse product line that remains cohesive and purposeful.

There’s a palpable pride in her voice when she talks about the work. It’s clear that for Marhefka, Espacio Handmade isn’t about scaling quickly or chasing trends. It’s about building something with integrity—products that last, that matter and that tell a story.

EVENTS AND MORE

In addition to her weekly presence at the Mueller market, Marhefka has also carved out a niche in the world of corporate and private events. One of the standout services Espacio Handmade offers is live, on-site monogramming. “It’s a big hit,” she shares. “Guests get to watch their initials being hand-set and pressed into leather in real time. It’s an experience—it makes the gift even more meaningful.”

These events have brought Espacio into everything from corporate retreats to weddings, giving clients the chance to create something truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a branded wallet in a custom color or a keychain embossed with a special message, the experience is deeply personal—and entirely unique.

Espacio Handmade’s products have a distinctive look and feel: from leather patch hats to flasks, earrings and their signature wallets, everything is stitched with care and stamped with character. One of the most popular items is the Vaquera Vertical Wallet, a compact, stylish piece that draws attention for its clean lines and clever design. Each product bears the subtle hallmarks of Marhefka’s design sensibility—bold, thoughtful and undeniably Austin.

What makes her booth so special is not just the high-quality merchandise but also the sense of discovery. “You won’t find these exclusive products at any other outdoor market in town,” Marhefka emphasizes. “The market on Sundays in Mueller is the only outdoor venue where we sell weekly.”

AN AUSTIN GEM

So, if you’re bringing out-of-town guests to explore Austin, this is a hidden gem worth pointing out—something uniquely local that showcases the city’s vibrant maker culture. Outside of the farmers’ market, Espacio Handmade makes occasional appearances at events like Blue Genie Art Bazaar and Austin City Limits Festival (ACL).

Those wanting a deeper look into the artistry behind the products can book an appointment to visit their brick-and-mortar workshop in South Austin, located at 2311 Thornton Rd. The studio offers a behind-the-scenes peek at the tools, materials and meticulous process behind each item—and for serious gift shoppers, it’s a quiet place to explore the full collection away from the buzz of the market. More info on visiting and ordering custom pieces can be found at www.espaciohandmade.com/pages/ espacio-handmade-pickup-location.

In a time when mass production dominates and fast fashion floods the market, it’s refreshing to see a small business like Espacio Handmade— one that values creativity, quality and sustainability in equal measure— thrive. Marhefka’s work doesn’t just fill a gap in the market; it fills a deeper need for intentional, well-made products with heart. Next time you’re at Mueller on a Sunday, stop by the stall with the leather cowboy boots and colorful wallets. You might just walk away with more than a gift—you’ll leave with a story in your pocket.

BY CARMEN GRAY