I carry an aluminum briefcase at all times to hold my laptop and other small goods. Unfortunately, my beloved Pina Zangaro Camden Attache—an integral component of my daily uniform—has begun showing its age. I’ve carried this briefcase since my freshman year in college, and since then the briefcase has accumulated visible scratches and dents on its surface. The latches have grown tarnished and the handle rattles while I’m walking.

My old briefcase gets its beauty from its minimalist composition. The makers behind this briefcase cut and folded a sheet of anodized aluminuminto two interlocking trays, secured with rivets and hinges. While I was in this cass, I realized I could potentially make my own.