ABOUT LEE KARI

A Journey of Heritage, Craftsmanship & Cultural Storytelling
LEE KARI is a distinctive collaboration between Lee Rademaker , an American master leather artisan with over five decades of experience, and House of Karishma, a heritage leather atelier from Rajasthan, India. Together, they bring to life a collection that blends Native American inspiration with the timeless artistry of handcrafted Indian leatherwork.

THE STORY OF LEE RADEMAKER
Master Artisan • Educator • Keeper of Tradition
With over 50 years dedicated to preserving the traditions of handcrafted leatherwork, Lee has inspired generations through teaching, demonstrations, and mentorship. His lifelong passion for leathercraft has earned him recognition as both an artisan and an ambassador of traditional craftsmanship.
Drawing inspiration from his Native American heritage, Lee incorporates meaningful motifs such as turtles, wildlife, and nature into his designs, transforming each piece into a story of culture, history, and identity. 
Heritage Designs
Lee is especially known for creating traditional Mountain Man “Possible Bags”—rugged frontier bags carried by early frontiersmen to hold essential tools and supplies. He also designs Medicine Bags, which have long held cultural significance among many Native American communities. These designs honor the traditions and practical artistry of generations past.

THE HOUSE OF KARISHMA LEGACY

Royal Craftsmanship from Rajasthan House of Karishma celebrates the timeless art of handcrafted leather goods from Rajasthan, India. Our skilled artisans have inherited their expertise through generations, preserving techniques once nurtured under royal patronage. Every piece is meticulously handcrafted using premium leather, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. The result is a collection that reflects authenticity, durability, elegance, and enduring quality. Preserving a Living Tradition By blending heritage skills with modern design sensibilities, House of Karishma continues a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship while creating products suited for today’s lifestyles.

THE TURTLE SYMBOL
Wisdom • Protection • Endurance
In Native American traditions, the turtle is revered as a symbol of wisdom, protection, longevity, stability, and a deep connection to Mother Earth. It represents patience, resilience, and the strength to move forward with purpose and balance.
Inspired by this , LEE KARI incorporates turtle-inspired motifs into selected designs. These meaningful elements celebrate cultural heritage while creating leather pieces that carry stories, values, and a connection to nature.

THE LEE KARI COLLECTION
Where Two Traditions Become One

The LEE KARI collection represents the harmonious fusion of Native American artistry and Rajasthani craftsmanship, bringing together two rich cultural traditions through the timeless medium of fine leatherwork. Every piece is thoughtfully designed to honor heritage, symbolism, and storytelling while embracing modern functionality and refined style.

Crafted from premium natural leather, our bags celebrate the authenticity and beauty of traditional leather craftsmanship. Each design is brought to life through skilled handwork, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep respect for artisanal techniques passed down through generations. The natural character of the leather, with its unique textures and graceful aging process, ensures that every piece develops a distinctive patina and personality over time.

From heritage-inspired leather bags to contemporary handcrafted accessories, each creation embodies exceptional craftsmanship, artistic expression, and enduring elegance. Rooted in tradition yet designed for modern living, the LEE KARI collection reflects a shared passion for preserving cultural artistry through premium leather goods that are made to be carried, cherished, and passed down as future heirlooms.

OUR PHILOSOPHY
Crafted to Be Carried for Generations . Designed to Be Cherished.
 
At LEE KARI, every stitch tells a story, every symbol carries meaning, and every handcrafted piece reflects a shared commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship. Through the collaboration of Lee and House of Karishma, we create leather goods that celebrate heritage, inspire individuality, and become treasured companions for generations to come.

More than simply accessories, our collections are designed as modern heirlooms—pieces to be carried, loved, and passed down through generations. Each bag embodies the artistry, skill, and dedication of master craftsmen, creating a lasting connection between the past and the future. With timeless design, exceptional materials, and meaningful craftsmanship at its core, every LEE KARI piece is made to age beautifully and become part of a family’s story for years to come.