Preserving Craft Heritage: The Story of Myatodesign

By Eric Lian · 28th January, 2019

Preserving Craft Heritage: The Story of Myatodesign | EasyStore

This blog was updated on 16 April 2025, for more information connect with our team: https://www.easystore.co/contact 

Preserving Craft Heritage: The Story of Myatodesign

The word “tradition” often carries the perception of being old or outdated — but sometimes, the most beautiful things endure because they remain true to their origins.

In today’s fast-paced world, there are still ways to keep traditions alive. Myatodesign has chosen to preserve the rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship while empowering a new generation of artisans — producing handmade, personalized leather items entirely by hand.

EasyStore had the privilege of interviewing Mya, the founder of Myatodesign. 

With bold ambition and a passion for craft, Mya has built a meaningful, community-driven brand in Singapore. 

Let’s uncover her story.

1. Can you introduce yourself and tell us how Myatodesign was created?

My name is Mya, and I’m the founder of Myatodesign

I established the company in 2012, starting with a humble stall at Scape, Orchard

I was 22 at the time — taking a leap to start something I could proudly call mine.

Myatodesign is a Singapore-based, community-driven craft agency and the first female-led leather-making brand in the local night market scene. 

Our focus is on creating timeless, functional, and beautifully handmade products. 

The “Handmade” aspect is the heart of everything we do.

2. What inspired you to focus on leather craftsmanship for Myatodesign?

My passion has always been about creating personalized, handcrafted items

Every product at Myatodesign is made with intention and care — and we include free engraving with each piece, adding a personal touch that means a lot to our customers.

I aim to offer quality, enduring leather goods — products with depth and character that stand the test of time.

3. What were you doing before starting this business?

I worked as a full-time graphic designer and also took on freelance design projects. 

Quitting my job to start Myatodesign was a tough decision. 

It meant stepping out of my comfort zone to build a business from scratch.

As many people know, living in Singapore comes with higher expenses — but I chose to believe in my vision. 

Time waits for no one.

Fun fact: Myatodesign actually began as a graphic design platform before evolving into a full-time leather craft brand.

 

4. What made you start offering workshops?

There are a few reasons. 

Running an online business today is much more competitive than before. 

So, instead of competing head-on, I decided to offer something unique — crafting workshops and services.

This not only helped grow my business but also allowed me to share my craft and journey with others. 

I genuinely want to empower future crafters, as I feel traditional handcrafts are slowly losing their identity.

It’s a perfect example of killing two birds with one stone — diversifying my income while preserving traditional skills.

5. What challenges have you faced?

As an entrepreneur, one of the hardest parts is income stability

I started with zero business knowledge — and suddenly had to learn about accounting, marketing, and trend analysis.

Learning to juggle multiple roles outside of design was tough, but stepping outside my comfort zone helped me grow. 

Never be afraid to learn.

 

6. How did you overcome those challenges?

The support of my family and friends has been my biggest motivator. 

They’ve never doubted me, and that encouragement gave me the strength to push forward.

I expanded my business with workshops and live station services (like on-site embossing) to offer more than just products. 

Great customer service and return customers are also a huge part of my growth.

Additionally, building strong connections and networks through socializing has opened up new opportunities and made my business more resilient.

7. How has EasyStore supported your business?

EasyStore allowed me to start my online store at an affordable rate

It’s a user-friendly platform that continues to improve with new features, making it easier for small business owners like me to manage and grow their online presence.

 

8. What’s your future vision for Myatodesign?

I want to raise greater awareness about traditional craftsmanship

While handicrafts are recognized, there’s still a lack of attention to preserving these skills in the digital era.

As a designer, it’s my mission to sustain and share the heritage of traditional crafts while encouraging the next generation of artisans. 

Technology will continue to advance — but I believe we must preserve the unique identity and history of handmade craft.

You can also personalize your own leather gifts for yourself or loved ones at Myatodesign. A meaningful, sincere gift speaks directly to the heart.

Discover more about their beautiful leatherwork here:Website: http://www.wemakesg.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyatoDesign/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wemakesg/ 

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