Jenny Krauss has always had a passion for art and design. After earning her degree in fine arts, she found herself longing for a way to reach a broader audience and make a more tangible impact. This desire led her to fair trade commerce, where she began collaborating with artisans in Bolivia. A chance meeting at a trade show in 2007 sparked a deeper connection to the intricate embroidery traditions of Ayacucho, Peru—an encounter that would shape the direction of her namesake brand. Today, Jenny’s work supports over 800 artisans, blending creativity, tradition, and purpose to bring wearable art to a global audience.
Read on as Gisela, our marketing manager, sits down with Jenny to discuss the creative journey behind her distinctive, handcrafted belts.
An Artist's Perspective
Q: How did you first get into design?
As a child, I always loved making things, especially crafts. My high school had an excellent art program, and it was there that I learned how to weave on a floor loom. I went to a university instead of art school but majored in art and art history and later went on to earn an MFA. This foundation in fine arts still shapes my approach to design today.
Q: What inspires your artwork today?
I love patterns and am drawn to unique color combinations. I mostly create florals for the company, but if it were up to me, there would be more abstract and geometric designs. Customers respond mostly to the florals, so that’s what I tend to focus on, though I try to incorporate more experimental elements when I can.
Q: How would you describe your style in three words?
I’d describe my design style as bold, eclectic, and colorful. I’m drawn to dense designs, rich textures and unexpected colors, and I think that comes through in my work.
Q: What role does drawing play in your creative life?
Unfortunately, most of my personal time isn’t spent doing anything creative. When I do get to design new belts and pouches, drawing plays a central role. My drawings are done freehand on the computer with a stylus, which is essentially a digital pencil and paper. It’s the part of the process that still feels like pure art to me.
Design Process
Q: Where do your belt design ideas typically begin?
They start with a palette. I notice colors everywhere, and when I see something that, to me, is a beautiful combination, I take note and apply it to a belt palette.
Q: Can you walk us through your process—from initial concept to final sketch?
I don’t usually start with a concept. That comes later, after I’ve been sketching shapes and something starts to look interesting. The only real “concept” is that the shapes should harmonize with each other and flow beautifully across the length of the belt. It’s an intuitive process that takes time to evolve.
Q: Do you design with specific seasons, styles, or color palettes in mind?
I generally use lighter colors for spring/summer and darker ones for fall/winter. I like to think about how a piece will feel in a particular season, both in terms of color and overall mood.
Collaboration with Artisans
Q: Once your design is finished, how do you work with the artisan team to bring it to life?
I email my drawing with a diagram showing which embroidery stitch to use for each color. The belts all have a repeat that measures about 6-9 inches, so they embroider a sample of the repeat and send me a photo. It’s rare that I like the first attempt. I usually make a few changes, and it typically takes 3-4 samples before I’m satisfied and give the go-ahead to make a full belt. Some designs just don’t translate well to embroidery, and I end up scrapping them altogether.
Q: How do you communicate embroidery patterns and color choices?
It’s all in the drawings!
Q: What’s something about working with the artisans that brings you joy?
To keep the line fresh, I have to create original designs often, and the embroiderers have told me they enjoy the challenge of learning something new. I also love that these talented women can earn money from a skill they’ve learned from their elders.
Wearable Art, Designed + Woven with Purpose
Jenny’s passion for both the artistry and the mission behind her business is palpable. Each belt tells a story of creativity, tradition, and connection. It’s a reminder of the countless hands that come together to transform a single sketch into something beautiful and meaningful. We hope this interview gives you a deeper appreciation for the thoughtful work that goes into each Jenny Krauss belt, and the vibrant, dedicated community that makes it all possible.
Explore the whole Jenny Krauss collection here.
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