I am a South African-born artist and teacher. After immigrating here in the early 2000s, I began to experiment with jewelry-making as a hobby and found that it gave me the opportunity to create permanent meaningful creations. As I taught myself jewelry techniques, I also discovered my passion for teaching. In 2007, I began giving lessons, and I now teach classes from my studio and around Seattle. In 2018, I launched Samantha Slater Studio – a minimalist, geometric jewelry line created from ethically sourced materials. I recycle all my studio remnants and use cotton tee shirts in my packaging. I strive to create jewelry that makes you look good and feel good.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I have been surrounded by luscious greens and earthy hues my entire life. I’m inspired by the beautiful nature of the environment around me, resulting in a product line that is continually unfolding like the changing of the seasons.    My name is Julie — I am a mama (of two young boys) and a girl who simply likes to make things. Every Moss Bags full-grain leather tote, wallet, pair of earrings, or accessory is one-of-a-kind and 100% handmade by me in my studio. I love to cut, sew, and play until a completely new, stylish, and often times multi-functional design emerges.  Fashion & function come together with each handcrafted bag. All totes, bags, and wallets are created with 1 single piece of leather. This creates clean lines and a strong base…not to mention there are no bottom seams that can rip open! From convertible designs that adjust to your needs, to classic styles that get better with age…Moss Bags are built to last.

blaksands is a curated vintage shop with a focus on sustainable fabrics and re-worked/upcycled pieces. owner Michelle Moore brings her love of slow-fashion to her brand with relaxed and fun vintage pieces, colorful custom tie-dye, as well as a small selection of curated sustainable women-owned brands.