Atelier Madre by Manuel Dreesmann – The Open Atelier in El Born Where You Can Watch Your Bag Being Made

“I called him her husband. She called him her boyfriend. She bought a long bracelet. He bought a choker. We didn’t press further. The jewellery seemed to understand.”

Atelier Madre by German designer Manuel Dreesmann collects these little stories — observations from behind the counter that say as much about the products as they do about the people buying them. They’re moments that stick, and they’re part of what makes visiting this El Born store feel more personal than just a shopping trip.

When they invited us over to see the space in the old town of Barcelona , we found the shop exactly as people describe it: part boutique, part working atelier (they call it open kitchen concept), and entirely open. There’s no hidden backroom; the workbenches, tools, and half-finished pieces are all in plain view. The result is a space where browsing and making happen side by side, and where every product on the shelf has a story — sometimes one that’s still unfolding.

Everything is Made in the Store in El Born

View of Atelier Madre's workshop through the boutique

All of Atelier Madre’s products are handcrafted on-site by their team of artisans. While we were there, one of them was sewing a bag while chatting to customers. People would pause mid-browse to watch, ask a question, and then carry on looking through the shelves.

One customer came in and found a bag she liked, but asked for the pockets to be placed differently and the leather in another colour. The team took the request and told her it’d be ready the next day. This willingness to adapt designs is part of the experience here — it’s understood that each customer might want something a little different.

“We have full transparency. Everything is made over here. We make sure that the product is something that speaks to the customer so that they find something that they really love.” - Aymen from Atelier Madre

Locally Sourced, Premium Materials

Leather scraps on a workbench at Atelier Madre

Atelier Madre uses vegetable-tanned leather from Igualada, a small town outside Barcelona with a long history of leather craftsmanship. Vegetable tanning avoids the harsh chemicals of chrome tanning and results in a leather that develops its own patina over time. It’s a slower, more traditional method that gives the material depth and character.

In the store, new pieces sit next to older ones, showing how the leather ages and changes. It’s not about keeping things pristine; it’s about celebrating how something improves with wear.

No Deadstock, No Overproduction

Display of Atelier Madre's unique, small-batch designs

The atelier only produces in small batches or to order, meaning there’s no excess stock waiting for clearance sales. This approach cuts down on waste and ensures that every item has a purpose from the moment it’s made.

Even small offcuts are used. Pieces that might otherwise be thrown away become bookmarks, earrings, AirPods holders, or keychains. Every scrap is put to work, which feels consistent with their approach to slow, thoughtful production.

Customisation and Personalisation

Customisation is part of the process here, not an extra. Customers can change colours, adjust designs, or add personal touches like initials or dates. Wallets can be ready in about an hour, jewellery in twenty minutes, and woven bags by the next day.

It’s also why we’d recommend Atelier Madre to anyone looking for gift stores in Barcelona with something unique. A bag or piece of jewellery that’s been tailored to the recipient’s style feels more personal — and it’s the kind of gift that will come with its own story.

All Types Of Leather Goods

Airpod case holders, pouches, belts, and more on display

Bags and wallets are their most recognisable pieces, but the range extends to:

• Bookmarks

• AirTag holders

• Key wallets and keychains

• Dog collars, leashes, and poop bag holders

• Leather visors

• Tissue box covers

• AirPods holders

• Belts

• Bracelets and earrings

• Leather masks

• Passport holders

The smaller accessories are ideal for travellers or anyone who wants something handcrafted without committing to a larger piece.

A Destination in El Born

View of the Atelier Madre Boutique in El Born

While Atelier Madre has its share of local regulars, a lot of their customers are visitors who’ve seen the brand on TikTok or Instagram and made it part of their trip. The location in El Born means it’s easy to combine a visit with exploring some of the coolest boutiques in Barcelona or the neighbourhood’s cafés, bars, and galleries.

The staff love to help and answer all your questions, happy to walk you through a design or explain the techniques they’re using. It’s the kind of place where the interaction is part of the purchase, and where the product you leave with has a clear link to the person who made it.

Atelier Madre: Why It’s Worth a Visit

Atelier Madre blends craftsmanship, transparency, and personalisation in a way that feels rare. The open atelier concept invites you into the process, while their small-batch production and sustainable sourcing keep the focus on quality over quantity. And sometimes, if you’re lucky, you leave with more than just a leather bag or bracelet — you leave with a story, like the couple choosing jewellery for each other, no labels needed.

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