Your instructors, Béatrice & Amélie Amblard

 

Béatrice Amblard, Founder and Director

Béatrice “Bea” Amblard is a master leather artisan with more than 40 years of experience. Béatrice was born in France and enrolled in the prestigious Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris when she was 16. Immediately after graduation, she was hired by Hermès in Paris as an apprentice leather artisan.

In 1987, Hermès sent her to San Francisco as an “Ambassador” to their newly opened San Francisco boutique. She was the second employee ever sent to the United States by Hermès.

After working on and designing custom leather goods for fourteen years at Hermès, Béatrice launched her own line, April in Paris, at a South of Market workshop. She quickly built up a loyal clientele, and opened a boutique and workshop on Clement Street in 2000.  Béatrice is the only Hermès artisan in the United States designing under her own label with her own boutique, April in Paris.

In 2012, to keep the art of refined leatherworking alive, Béatrice started Amblard Leather Atelier, where she teaches leather classes.  The curriculum teaches 4 levels of leatherworking using traditional French hand tools.

 

Amélie Amblard, Instructor

Meet Amélie, a cherished member of the ALA family. As Béatrice's daughter, Amélie has been an invaluable instructor at ALA for many years. Her passion for the art of leatherworking runs deep, instilled in her from an early age by her talented mother.

Having graduated with a BA in Fine Arts  from St. Lawrence University in 2014, Amelie furthered her expertise by completing the ALA Program in 2015. Right after graduating, equipped with formal education and specialized training in leatherworking, she dedicated herself to guiding and sharing her profound knowledge with aspiring artisans. 

Her patient and nurturing approach fosters a supportive learning environment, where students feel inspired and encouraged to explore their creative potential. Amélie's guidance and mentorship at ALA will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your craftsmanship and passion for this timeless art form.