Erda Inc.

Location: Cambridge, ME

At Erda, a jolly group of women collaborates to bring into being the outside-the-box ideas I generate. We've established a distinctive identity by using vivid, texture-rich fabrics, exotic deerskin, and sculptural shapes.

I started making deerskin bags in 1971, at first for myself, then for friends. I was only planning to do it until I figured out what to be when I grew up. I made VERY funky bags, loaded with fringe, beads, and raggedy edges. I had no training, and frankly my bags had almost no construction — they were sorta Abstract Expressionist bags. Some styles, updated, are still available.

Today, I collect intelligence from the press, the net, the cosmopolitan world, and customers, to bring to our shop in Maine, ten miles from the nearest small town. Drawing upon the creativity and skills of the group, we've added structure, zippers, pockets, and functionality that embodies the spirit of Erda in a fresh, up-to-date form.

Our bags are made of American deerskin or contemporary fabrics from the upholstery industry. As you can see, they aren't something you'd picture on your couch, though! All of our handbags are available in any of our standard fabrics or in our recycled fabrics.

From: Patti Dowse and the Erda Ladies.

Northern Tides carries a wide variety of Erda fabric and leather wrist bags, adjustable purses, and overnight bags, not all listed here. Please email or call Northern Tides for additional information, pictures, and availability.