Maruca

A little history…

The most frequently asked question we hear is “What does Maruca stand for?” Wellll….standing 6 feet tall, male, Sicilian and big brown eyes…Rex Maruca is the founder of Maruca Design. Starting out selling fabric for the upholstery industry, hauling loads of swatches… A friend-“Hark! Rex…why don’t you make a tote from those beautiful fabrics to carry your swatches, and one for me as well?” Rex…”Hmmm…” Hence Maruca Design was born. Maruca Design, now 25 years later remains a small, intimate studio nestled in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado. Every bag still hand cut and sewn, kindly here at home.

The fiber of our philosophy…

Maruca Design embraces the principles of the Arts & Crafts Movement in America (1860-1910)…A movement that invigorated and emphasized the value placed on traditional and decorative craftsmanship using simple forms. The movement stood in opposition to industrial manufacturing and sought to promote the moral, social and economic health of the nation…sound familiar?

We, at Maruca, believe that creating small production runs of our bags within a cottage industry, creates a consciousness that humanizes our work and makes for a more “harmonious society”. The result is that we can tout a product that is unique, well made and moves from heart to hand.

As an American-based company, we seek to balance resourcefulness and creativity. After 25 years (!), we remain rooted in the principles of this philosophy. However, ultimately it is the consumer who will determine the value placed on American made handcraft.

Maruca Design’s culture is composed of women who share one common thread…the love for textiles. It’s such a thrill to spot our fans far and wide, secure in their being, all secure in their unique style. You’re beautiful, be you…

Our shapes…

Foremost, the bags must be functional and perform well! After 25 years of working with women and their relationship issues with their handbags, (and carrying bags ourselves), we have learned to listen! Not driven by trend, heeding the advice from our followers and endless reconnaissance, our funk-tional shapes are designed to actually work in your life…(always a way to access your cell phone!)

Our fabrics…

Our bags are made from a fabric called “Jacquard”…Jacquard means an intricately woven pattern using a special loom in the weaving process. The conception of our fabric patterns begins with drawings, cut paper, collage and re-worked imagery, all inspired by the world around us. We then collaborate with brilliant textile designers from select, smaller independent U.S. fabric mills, who then bring our vision into fruition. The content of our fabrics can vary…The threads are cottons, rayons and synthetics—many of which are from recycled plastic bottles!

Contributions…

Because of your support, we in turn are able to contribute to multiple humanitarian and educational causes. We regularly donate to local charities and causes. Because we are a small studio, we regret that we cannot go national with more contributions.

Maruca Bag: Sparrow