About

Diane Leshin grew up in Houston, Texas in the 50’s and 60’s. Her parents valued professionalism. Typing, reading and writing were encouraged; homemaking, art and sewing were discouraged.

At first, Diane followed that path. Her name is followed by several sets of initials, Diane W. Leshin, B.A., M.Ed., Ph.D. For some years, while raising three children, Diane worked part-time as a psychologist. All along, however, her creativity showed itself. Her garden, flower arrangements, costumes, invitations & wedding programs & millinery, crocheted blankets reflected a natural talent for design and color.

Then, one summer Diane crocheted bandanas for her daughters. The bandanas led to drawstring bags; the drawstring bags led to embellished, textured & lined handbags. Diane Leshin Designs was born. Diane Leshin, B.A., M.Ed., Ph.D., reinvented herself midlife as Diane Leshin, fiber artist and accessory designer.

In her designs, Diane fuses fashion and fiber art. Her bags are “pieces” rather than purses. She specializes in an innovative technique called “freeform” crochet in which rules and patterns are absent. Rather than controlling the fibers, Diane lets the work evolve. She makes small pieces, then sews them together, sometimes using vintage purse shapes as a guide. Each bag has its own quality and character.

Diane lives in Lewisville, North Carolina with her family. Her studio is located is in downtown Lewisville down the street from the town square and the one traffic light.

©2005