Janet Salzer is a New York–based designer and maker who transforms discarded materials from the commercial interior design industry into one-of-a-kind handbags and other accessories that celebrate craftsmanship, upcycling, sustainability, and timeless design.
Drawing on more than two decades in New York City’s contract design industry, Janet has built a career collaborating with the architectural and design community, specializing in furniture, flooring, and commercial interiors. Her deep understanding of materials, texture, color, and construction now inspires a new creative pursuit: giving overlooked materials a beautiful second life.
Each bag begins with discontinued area rug and/ or luxury fabric samples that might otherwise be destined for landfill. Janet thoughtfully pairs these reclaimed textiles with antique buttons, vintage jewelry findings, beads, and carefully sourced embellishments to create bespoke pieces that cannot be duplicated. Individually designed and handcrafted, each handbag, pouch and expandable tote bag is as distinctive as the woman who carries it.
Janet’s work reflects her belief that exceptional design can be both beautiful and responsible. Through upcycling, she honors the history and craftsmanship of existing materials while reimagining them as wearable works of art—bringing sustainability, artistry, and function together in unexpected ways.
Through her work, Janet hopes to inspire others to see possibility where others see waste, demonstrating that thoughtful design can preserve craftsmanship, reduce environmental impact, and create something truly extraordinary.
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