Case Study: Walnut Studiolo achieves branded growth and boosts direct sales with Shopify

Walnut Studiolo - Customer Case Study

Walnut Studiolo is a Portland-based maker of handcrafted leather goods that began when the founders built products they couldn’t find—starting with a leather U‑lock holster for bikes. Launched on Etsy in 2009, the business faced the challenge of moving beyond the “sea of crafters” to establish a distinct brand, improve shipping options, and scale fulfillment while keeping production sustainable and American-made.

They launched their own Shopify site in 2012 and streamlined operations with tools like ShipStation, InXpress’s DHL plugin, Mailchimp, Product Options, and review apps, and later hired a Shipping Associate. The results: a cohesive brand supported by consistent lifestyle photography and excellent customer service, reliable international shipping, and a shift in sales mix—about 50% of revenue now comes from their Shopify store versus 25% from Etsy.

Walnut Studiolo