Werther Leather Goods
Werther (originally Waskerd Wallets) is a leather goods shop crafting tool-bag-inspired bags, belts, minimalist leather wallets, watchbands, passport holders, bracelets & more. Have a belt made while you wait or watch us personalize one of our 10 wallet designs for you on the spot.
Located within the Selden Market in downtown Norfolk, VA between the Slover Library and The Main hotel, we're a short walk from the Waterside District and restaurants on Granby Street. The address is: 208 E Main St., Norfolk, VA 23510
The most convenient parking garage is the "Garage at the Main Hotel". It looks like it is the Hilton's parking garage, but it is actually a city-owned garage. When you exit the parking garage elevators, you will be looking directly at my shop without having to go outside.
How it Started
One day, I was sent home from work for not being "passionate" about my job. My boss gave me a blank piece of paper and told me to come back with my dream job description. I returned the next day and gave the paper back to him—blank. Without thinking it all the way through. I had just quit my "safe" job.
The Search
Meanwhile, my friend and I had been searching every store in NYC for a quality wallet with character. Everything we saw was either too bulky and uncomfortable to carry, or it was made with cheap materials and lacked personality. We thought we probably weren't the only ones who have struggled to find a high quality wallet that worked well for what we carried. Rather than giving up, I turned to my sketchbook.
Minimalist Wallets. Maximum Quality.
My guidelines were to create the simplest wallet for carrying the necessities while using the highest quality materials and construction. After learning about saddle stitching and full grain leather, I was able to nail down a design, buy my first hide of leather, and get to work.
I realized I was onto something big when Esquire featured the Strayer in their "Best Wallets of Spring 2013" article, but as I spoke with more and more people, I also learned not everybody can get away with carrying just 3 cards like I do.
The Wallet Selection Process
After making thousands of wallets and doing market research for more than 6 years, I set out to create the ideal wallet for each individual's unique lifestyle and personality—with the highest quality build.
A Passion in Wallets
Am I passionate about wallets? That might be a stretch. But, I am passionate about making things I'm proud of. Take a look at my minimalist wallets that I make based on capacity. If I can help you out with your search for the perfect wallet, I'd be delighted.
I've been running my business online since 2011. If you have specific questions, email is typically the best way to get in touch with me. If you are local to the Norfolk / Hampton Roads area, come see me in person. My shop is in the Selden Market alongside 11 other local artisanal shops.
-Derek Shaw
derek@waskerd.com
If you need a quick hole in your belt or a rivet to reinforce a strap, I'm happy to help, but as I'm trying to stay focused on developing a sustainable business, I am no longer able to take on custom work or repairs.
