about us
Honey Apple Creations is a Chicago-based craft studio specializing in handmade leather goods, custom accessories, leather bags, and one‑of‑a‑kind pet portraits. Every piece is shaped by curiosity, precision, and a love for thoughtful details—whether it’s a hand‑finished bag or a portrait that captures a pet’s personality. We focus on quality materials, intentional design, and a process that feels both personal and transparent. Honey Apple Creations brings together craftsmanship and character to create pieces that feel meaningful, useful, and uniquely yours.
Our Services
custom commissions
Any of our items can be fully customized and whole new items created. We are proud to work with you to make something uniquely yours to love and enjoy.
classes
We now offer classes locally in Chicago for leather working. Start from scratch to learn the basics or take classes to make a specific item. One-on-one classes are also available.
laser services
We offer custom laser services ranging from engraving an item, using the lasers to create whole new items, or cutting or engraving parts and patterns that you can provide.
Meet the Team
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Justin Apple
FOUNDER
Justin is an avid Star Trek fan and relies on his wife Hollie and his emotional support laser for comfort.
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Hollie Apple
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Hollie is a talented artist and Dungeon Master with a passion for social justice.
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Izabell Apple
QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER
Izabell is 14 years old. She enjoys making biscuits and morning sunbathing.
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Beef Wellington Apple
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Mr. Beef Wellington is 3 years old. He enjoys public relations (pets from all he surveys), short walks with his tiny legs, dog parks, and visiting his grandmother.
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Lemon Poppy Seed Apple
SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN
Lemon Poppy Seed is 4 months old. She loves to chew on socks, play with her brother, and take puppy naps.
locally sourced materials
We shop for our materials locally as much as possible from the following shops:
Tandy Leather in Elgin
Tannery Row
Petersons Plastics
Chicago School of Shoemaking
more about Justin
I started drawing when I was 4 years old making stick figure starships based on Star Trek. My father was a draftsman and he created an amazing portrait of the original Enterprise from Star Trek. That inspired me to reach his level of potential. During that time I have learned many skills, including Adobe Illustrator, which is very similar to the skills used by my father for drafting. I use this tool to make all of the patterns for our creations.
Art has always been one of my biggest passions. Having Hollie with me to share in that and run this shop has been a true gift.
skills:
Photoshop, Illustrator, vector graphics, laser cutting, leathercraft, painting, 3D printing, basic wood working, UX design, HTML, CSS, Javascript, WordPress, ServiceNow
more about hollie
Hello and welcome to our little shop! I am a creator, an advocate, and a life-long learner. I grew up in an eclectic home that my mom filled with art and culture. She always encouraged me to pursue my creative passions through art and music, and to embrace the beauty in a wide variety of places and cultures. While my interests in life are always changing, the act of creation has always been my outlet for healing, growth, and empowerment. I am lucky and privileged to have connected with my partner, Justin, so we could take this journey together.
Whether you’re a professional artist or you just like to knit in your spare time, we all have a need to engage in creating something from nothing. I hope that our gifts and designs can inspire you to embrace something new and continue to create.
Skills
Embroidery, illustration, painting
Contact us.
Justin@honeyapplecreations.com
(773) 809-3285
Hours
Monday–Friday
10am–6pm by appointment only
Address
3611 West Belmont Ave. Unit G
Chicago IL, 60618