Ewunet founded his business, Bregga & Co., back in 2012 to design and craft “accessories for the young and young-at-heart professional.” His fine leather and hardwood designs include business card cases, wallets, portfolios, and furniture items. But when life brought him from Pennsylvania to Michigan, he was concerned about finding a space to keep doing the work he loved. Thankfully, he found that place in Maker Works—keep reading to hear his story.
Ewunet Tadesse (He/Him)
Ann Arbor, MI
Maker & Entrepreneur
Bregga & Co.
A handcrafted leather key chain titled “Warp”, made from black English bridle and red calf lining.
What can you tell us about your business and areas of interest?
My areas of interest are in leather, metal and woodworking. I generally make whatever piques my interest and I feel is novel or challenging to my skill set. I lump all of my projects together at my online shop Bregga & Co.
“Zewd”, a one-of-a-kind lamp designed and made by Ewunet. Want to support other makers and their great ideas? A small recurring donation will help keep the shop accessible!
What is your relationship to Maker Works and how did you get involved with the shop?
I moved to Ann Arbor about 3.5 years ago from Philadelphia. I was a member of a maker space there and wanted to continue working in a similar space. Makerspaces offer professional tools, camaraderie, and a knowledge base I either don’t have access to or would take a lot of resources to acquire.
Ann Arbor also doesn’t have much commercial or shop space available, so it’s a no-brainer to be a member of Maker Works.
The DC3: handmade from Claro Walnut, aluminum trim, and a hand-rubbed oil finish.
How has Maker Works, access to shared tools, and a shared community impacted you/helped you reach your goals?
Having a quality place to work is very important to me and was one of the main points in considering whether my move here was viable. Ann Arbor lacks rentable studio and shop space for makers and artists.
If Ann Arbor didn’t have Maker Works to make up for that gap, I wouldn’t have moved here.
Ewunet prototyped and built the final version of the “Vector” stool in the Maker Works Woodshop. Look closely to see the impressive joinery work!
What would you say to others about your experiences with Maker Works and why is it a valuable part of the community?
If you are serious about exploring an interest, someone at Maker Works shares it. They also have the tools and knowledge to help you develop your skill set and elevate it. Making is a bit like sports in that way—you can play basketball by yourself, but you’d be much better off playing with someone else.
As you heard from Ewunet’s story, Maker Works is a valuable space that attracts talented people to the Ann Arbor area. Want to help the shop continue its role as an irreplaceable community resource? Make a donation to Maker Works today.