Paper Houses connects with Leanh-La Jewellery

I first remember seeing Leanh’s work in the showcase cabinet at The Barn Arts in Banchory. This sunny orange arch popped out through the glass case, it had little flecks of white. It was stand out yet subtle, I didn’t think that could be a thing but this was exactly that. I got the necklace there and then and still have it now.

Leanh-La Jewellery

I first met Leanh at one of the design markets and we were stall buddies at HAAN 2019 in the Art Gallery. She is one of the most genuine, interesting and comfortable people to be around. It’s so brilliant to have Leanh on our blog to share more about her creative ways with us.

1. Tell us who you are and what you do?

My name is Leanh La and I am a designer of geometric inspired jewellery.  The main concept behind my designs is designing and making fun, vibrant and simple jewellery for the everyday. I design and make necklaces, brooches and earrings. The main materials I use in my pieces are birch plywood and Formica and I create the shapes by using a laser cutter.  I launched Leanh La Jewellery three years ago and have been designing and making ever since!

2.Why are you a creative?

Being creative gives me the opportunity to be imaginative, it also allows me to harness my own creativity and explore my creative interests.

My inspiration comes from geometric shapes, colours, textures and patterns. I enjoy clashing colour to create jewellery that is fun and wearable. My first collection, I explored the geometric form, laser cutting simple shapes and piecing them together and the pieces were hand-painted creating fun and playful pieces for the everyday.  I now use Formica as my main material.   

3. If you could go back in time and tell yourself one thing when you started out what would it be?

If I could go back in time and tell myself one thing, it would be that I should have started designing jewellery earlier!

4. What's your favourite task/job to do and your worst?

My favourite task by far is the designing process and playing with shapes. This is the time where I can be as imaginative and creative as I want. The least favourite would be polishing the Formica as I get very sore hands and very sore shoulders, I end up having one muscley arm! 

Brooch mix

5. What song/podcast gets you in the zone?

I love listening to jazz, it calms me and it also makes me feel like I'm in a Smokey Jazz bar in New York! :)

Leanh La is stocked in many great places if you would like to order directly then just pop over a message on Instagram -  

Instagram link: @leanh_la_jewellery

Have you read our other chats with creatives? No? Then see them here - Paper Houses Connects