THE LEATHER GENIE

Before I was your Leather Genie, I was Gracia Hemans, born in Kingston, Jamaica. Growing up as an extremely artistic and creative child, I was introduced to leather crafting at an early age. When art met leather, “The Leather Genie” was born. By age 14, I could make a leather shoe from scratch!

Before long, I became equally skilled at making handbags, belts and other items. I spent the next 25 years honing my talents and earning a living by making and selling products – primarily out of my home – until migrating with my family to Hartford, Connecticut in 2002.

With the addition of Grassillini Creations, East Hartford might well become the first stop for any leather aficionados in the area. Certainly, our customers have all thought it worth the trip so far.

Not long after settling in the US, I accepted a job as a Customer Sales Associate at Tandy Leather (a national retailer of leather materials and crafting supplies). Having been around leather for most of my life, I quickly became a valued contributor to the store’s operations. My flair for creative leather crafting however had not faded and after a few years, I seized an opportunity to again do what I loved for a living. I leased a modest storefront (ironically located just a few doors from Tandy!) and moved my tools, sewing machine and materials into the space. The rest, as they say, is history!

Since 2006, we have specialized in hand-making and repairing leather products. Each item is crafted with love and care from top quality leather and built to last. We are extremely pleased with the steady demand for our pocketbooks, wallets, belts and motorcycle seats! 

So whether you are itching for that custom-made gun holster or envisioning that leather bikini you’ve always wanted, let the Leather Genie grant that wish!