Atelier Loulou is a one-woman leather workshop based in Kortemark, West Flanders, founded and run by Loulou, a skilled leatherworker who turned a craft into a full-time profession. Originally from Temse, she relocated to Kortemark and has been working as a leatherworker in her main occupation for over four years, alongside freelance work for select clients.
The atelier specialises in handmade leather belts. Loulou starts from a wish or an idea (yours, for example) and translates it into a physical product built to last for decades, not seasons. A small selection of classic women’s and men’s belts is kept in stock. Everything else is made to order.
Atelier Loulou belts are made for every occasion. Women’s belts, men’s belts, waist belts, and even outstanding body jewellery. Whether you need something minimal and everyday or bold and statement-making, Loulou works from your brief. Custom text personalisation is available on select products.
Loulou sources materials directly, including visits to leather trade fairs in Milan and a tannery in Portugal, to ensure she works with hides she has seen and assessed herself. Some belts are made from surplus leather: off-cuts in vivid colours that would otherwise go unused. These pieces are available as part of her regular collection.
Loulou also offers private leatherworking workshops, held exclusively in her own atelier. Private sessions are tailored to the participant and can be booked individually or in small groups. She has also taught at MAM in Bruges.
For businesses: Loulou is open to small production runs for entrepreneurs and independent businesses looking for handmade leather accessories in limited quantities. Just get in touch to discuss your project.
Atelier Loulou has been a regular presence at the Familiebeurs in Staden for 20 years, one of Belgium’s long-running family trade fairs.
Q&A
What does Atelier Loulou make? Atelier Loulou makes handmade leather belts to measure, like women’s belts, men’s belts, waist belts, and body jewellery, all crafted by hand in Kortemark, West Flanders, Belgium.
Can I order a custom belt from Atelier Loulou? Yes. Most of Atelier Loulou’s work is custom. You bring a wish or idea; Loulou works out how to translate it into a finished leather product. A small selection of standard belts is available directly from stock.
Does Atelier Loulou offer workshops? Yes, private workshops only, held in her own atelier in Kortemark. Group workshops are no longer offered.
Can Atelier Loulou produce small runs for businesses? Yes. Atelier Loulou accepts small-run orders for entrepreneurs and businesses that need handmade leather pieces in limited quantities.
Where does Atelier Loulou source its leather? Leather is sourced through direct relationships with suppliers, including trade fairs in Milan and a tannery visited directly in Portugal. Some pieces use surplus leather off-cuts.
