Crafty People Series #3 - Infinity

Well, since now that you know I was in Florence I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to meet crafty people. To me, Florence is the epitome of crafty/creative goodness. The Italians have a reputation to keep after all!
So it is through my cousin that is working in this beautiful workshop that I met Jane Provaroni, the owner (with her husband) of Infinity. After working from home and looking for a place for a year they eventually found the store and workshop which they opened 25 years ago. They sell handmade leather goods, a wide range of handbags to belts and smaller accessories. Her husband Eugenio welds many of the pieces for their store, while Jane still has to learn that art, her husband makes her ideas become a reality (see the buckle with animals and skull just to give you an idea). She does have a brown belt in judo, which  to me is up there in the area of "total coolness."
Here is a glimpse of their amazing space, and their beautiful work!

1. First crafty memory?
    When I was around six or seven at summer camp doing gymps.

2. Favorite thing you have ever made?
    All the bags in the store, really. I'm very proud of my work. One comes to mind, but only because it
    was recent. A bag with fringes, parrot feathers and roses all in leather.

3. Favorite material to work with?
    Natural leathers (the soft ones), high quality materials. I also like sparkly things!

4. Inspiring words you go back to?
    "Do it and it is done!" Or "Can't change anything? Change your attitude!" Sometimes the business
     side of this work can be no fun at all. Like paperwork, the dust or the managing of the store, things
     we tend to put off, so just changing the attitude and do them, and then you can have fun!!

5. Favorite color?
    The rainbow! And I really love black!

6. Coffee or tea?
    Coffee (answered with no hesitation)

7. Mountains or beach?
    Mountains. I like the beach a lot, but only when there is no one there. (That is impossible to find in
    Italy at this time of the year).

8. Where do you find your inspiration?
    By doing!! Playing around with things, putting them together.

9. What do you collect?
    Stones, rocks, japanese obis. But I really don't collect anymore. Now I want to get rid of stuff, clear
    my space.

10. What would you like to make that you haven't?
      I would like to learn to weld!


Jane: It was a pleasure meeting you. Thank you for opening the doors to your beautiful store and workshop, and for sharing a bit of your life with me.

Infinity can be found at Borgo S.S. Apostoli, 18r, and they are open everyday from 10:30 to 7pm, except sundays. Check out their web for more information.

Giova.