“RUKI-KRYKI” is a Russian term that directly translates to “hands-hooked”. In a less literal sense, what it really means is something being done badly or in a clumsy way by hand.

Vladimir Kovalev, a Russian handicraftsman, established the brand RUKI-KRYKI a few years ago. While the brand opts for such a name, its products are nowhere near badly or clumsily made. Instead, the products are nicely crafted by hand at every step, using different traditional skills in craftsmanship. According to Vladimir Kovalev, he only uses the simplest and plainest tools such as awls, needles and thread, rulers and knives, and without anything powered by electricity like sewing machines and cutting machines as he prefers taking things slowly and manually. Another highlight is that all materials used for making RUKI-KRYKI goods such as leather and thread are made in Russia. Even the packing materials like paper and cloth are also made in Russia. Apart from leather goods, RUKI-KRYKI also produces wooden goods and paper products. Check out RUKI-KRYKI’s website and Instagram.