Leed Design: The art and heart of hobby horsing

Finnish brand Leed Design, founded by Saija Leed, blends artistic creativity with the vibrant culture of hobby horsing – a niche sport and artistic pastime that is gaining traction worldwide.

Artist and long-time hobbyhorse enthusiast Leed channels her passion into crafting hobbyhorse designs and providing services such as graphic design, photography and handcrafted items. Hobby horsing originates from Finland, and it involves participants mimicking equestrian activities including dressage and show jumping using handmade hobbyhorses, stick horses with plush heads.

As a child, Leed was often mocked for her hobby, but she ignored the naysayers – and incorporated her passion into her career. “My hobby has been in my life for two decades, and it’s a big part of me, and I can’t imagine my life without it,” Leed says. Now, her contributions include illustrations for Finnish Hobbyhorse Championships materials and custom-made hobbyhorses for fellow enthusiasts.

The artist draws inspiration from hobbyhorses for the colours, motifs and shapes of her patterns. She creates useful everyday items, from pouches and pencil cases to fabric bags, sewn from high-quality fabrics. “Although horses feature in many of my patterns, I feel that their shapes and colours suit everyone.”

Leed’s work is a testament to her passion and seamlessly blending creativity, imagination and craftmanship unites Leed Design and hobby horsing. “It’s wonderful being able to create items for our community,” she concludes. “As a young hobbyhorse enthusiast, I could only dream of items like these being available.”

Founder Saija Leed.

Web: www.leedesign.fi
Instagram: @leeddesign_official