A Handmade Story

woman @ work

In a world increasingly driven by speed and mass production, some stories are still written slowly - stitched, painted, and carved by hand. One such story is of ‘A Handmade Story’, an artisanal brand offering handcrafted leather journals, bags, accessories, and embroidered pieces - each rooted in nature, nostalgia, and meaning. Behind this thoughtful venture is Maryam Badar, an MBA graduate from Rawalpindi with a lifelong love for the outdoors and a deep creative spark. After losing her corporate job during the pandemic, a solo trek to the K2 basecamp became a turning point when she chose not to return to the grind. “That journey helped me meet a more resilient version of myself,” she shares.

She began working with leather, wood, paper, and thread - crafting pieces that are tactile, personal, and soulful. “When you buy something handmade, you’re buying process, thought, and emotion,” she says. This week, Maryam speaks to You! about her creative path and the story behind her handmade brand…

What shaped your creative side?

I’ve always been creatively inclined. As a child, I was deeply observant - fascinated by textures, shapes, and nature. I’d drop toys in water to see how their forms changed, build boats from wood, mould clay, and make dollhouses from scratch. My hands have always been my favourite tools - I’ve always found joy in making things.

Why the name ‘A Handmade Story’?

Because every handmade product carries a story. My products often reflect stories of possibility, colour, curiosity, and the vastness of the world we inhabit.

What products do you offer - and how would you describe the style of your brand?

The heart of the brand is leather journals, for the love of storytelling. Over time, we’ve expanded into leather bags, wallets, travel accessories, and embroidered pieces. The style is earthy, textured, and detail-oriented - each product has a tactile personality and a raw, authentic aesthetic.

From journals to embroidered bags - how do you choose your materials and forms?

It may sound unusual, but I choose every piece of leather based on how it feels and looks. If it has the right texture, a certain earthiness, and creative potential, I take it on. I also pick certain types - like full grain - for their raw surface, which is perfect for engraving. Some are chosen for colour or finish, others for how they respond to art and stitching.

Nature seems to be a big influence on your work. Can you speak about that connection?

Nature grounds me. It’s not just inspiration - it’s my source of materials, stories, and healing. I use driftwood, dried flowers, natural dyes, even camel bone sourced through artisans. These elements keep me connected to the wild, even in the city.

Walk us through your creative process. How does an idea turn into a finished product?

My process is fluid and instinctive. An idea often starts with something I observe in nature - it lingers, evolves, and eventually pushes me to experiment. I play with materials, solve technical puzzles, and follow the creative flow rather than a fixed plan. Sometimes I even sleep among my supplies. Each piece takes the time it needs - whether days or months.

You incorporate painting, embroidery, and wood into your products. Are these techniques self-taught?

Yes, entirely. I’ve always been a learner at heart. I started by improvising tools from household items, and only later invested in proper equipment. I’m still learning - still experimenting.

Do you work alone or with a team?

I currently work solo, but I’ve streamlined processes through smart investments - like cutting and polishing machinery - and strong relationships with suppliers who understand my exact needs. This has helped reduce production time without compromising quality.

How do customers respond to the handmade aspect of your products?

People love it. In a world of mass production, handcrafted pieces are becoming more precious. Customers appreciate the love, time, and thought that go into each product - and often connect emotionally with the stories behind them.

What has been your most memorable collection - and why?

‘The Heritage Collection’. I designed journals inspired by architectural patterns from sites like Bibi Jawindi’s mausoleum, the Lahore Fort, and the Tomb of Jahangir. Another favourite is a series of tiny, one-inch books in hard binding. Both were labours of love and rich in cultural meaning.

Do you take custom orders or collaborations? Any special ones?

Yes, frequently. One memorable commission was a journal with a picture engraved for a woman’s late grandmother. It was titled ‘Ammi k Naam’, meant to preserve letters written to her. Projects with such emotional depth are especially meaningful.

Do you ever face ethical or sustainability concerns - especially with leather?

Occasionally, especially from international buyers. But in Pakistan, leather is widely used and culturally accepted. I try to use every piece responsibly and ensure nothing goes to waste.

Has social media helped your brand grow?

Absolutely. I started the business with just PKR 7,000 after spending everything else on materials. I used that small amount to run ads - and got my first orders through them. That momentum became my foundation.

What’s the biggest challenge of running a craft-based business in Pakistan?

Mass production. It’s tough to compete with the pricing and scalability of factory-made goods. Handmade work takes time, and time costs money. The challenge is constantly balancing profit with craftsmanship.

Do you plan to scale or expand - retail, collaborations, workshops?

Definitely, though time has been the biggest constraint. There’s a lot I want to do, and I’m taking small, steady steps toward expansion.

What does a typical day look like for you - personally and professionally?

There’s little separation now. My work is my life. I wake up excited about it, take joy in every exhibition, and spend most of my time thinking about what’s next. It’s all-consuming - but in the best way.

What’s it been like being a woman entrepreneur?

Honestly, I haven’t felt held back because of my gender. Yes, I’ve often been the only woman in certain markets, and there was initial casualness from suppliers. But they’ve come to respect the work and now treat me as a serious business partner. The work speaks for itself.

What do you do to stay grounded or reconnect with yourself?

I travel. I walk. Long treks, especially in the mountains, help me reflect and reconnect. That’s when I feel most aligned with myself.

What advice would you give young women hoping to start a business?

Start small, invest in research, plan you expenses and break-even, and don’t be afraid to do something no one has done before.

What are your plans for the future?

I hope and wish I can give my business the due time, explore more markets and be able to continue this as a much loved art brand.