HUGHES LOW
FOUNDER
HUGHES HANDCRAFTED
“I used to travel a lot, and I would always arrange to visit artists in their studios. Seeing the emotional connection, rawness, and how other creatives work is truly a treat. Visual art appeals the most to me and allows me to see what works and what doesn’t; that clash of materials and mix of colours, the bold stroke and the use or disuse of space. I don’t read too deeply into the narrative and dialogue of pieces. Still, I’m more intrigued about the processes leading up to a finished artwork.”
Hughes Low, founder of Hughes Handcrafted, has become a sought-after figure in the watch strap crafting industry and known for his meticulous craftsmanship and personalised approach to leather watch straps. Hughes’ journey began with a passion for working with his hands, which led him to explore various crafts during his time at the National University of Singapore. Eventually, he found his calling in leather crafting despite the initial challenges of limited resources. Mentors he met along the way played a crucial role in his development, enabling him to transition into the craft full-time after honing his skills.
Hughes Handcrafted started modestly, relying heavily on word- of-mouth referrals. His dedication quickly earned him a loyal customer base. Hughes emphasises the importance of a well- fitting strap customised to the wearer’s preferences for softness, stiffness, and buckle placement. He prefers unique materials like ostrich leather, known for its character and patina.
Hughes’ business philosophy centres on doing everything with care, including the parts of the strap that are not visible. Despite the growing trend towards vegan leather, Hughes remains cautious, advocating for genuinely sustainable, plastic-free alternatives like mycelium leather.