This is the story of Barry Knight one of the few remaining tanners in the UK. Situated in the centre of Bristol, within the seemingly untouched grounds, lies an old Tannery. Thomas Ware & Sons dates back to the 1840’s, the beginning of the Victorian era, yet their technique and craftsmanship remains unchanged. This short […]
Video: A Day in the Life of a Shoemaker
Today’s post is a video from the workshop of John Lobb, a heritage, bespoke, leather shoe-making company from London that has been serving clients such as the the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prince of Wales since the mid-19th century. What really strikes me about this quiet, intimate look at their family-run business is how […]
Leather Armor Fun
Even though I mostly make designer leather goods, I’m secretly a geek at heart. I recently came across a beautiful example of detailed leather armor made by the folks at Savagepunk Studio. What I love about this is the attention to detail and how the theme is pulled through the construction of the piece. It […]
The Life and Work of a Master Bush Craftsman
Today’s post is a story of a master bush craftsman, Doug Kite, who recently celebrated his 92nd birthday by donating the best of his life’s leatherwork to the Museum of Victoria collections. Although humble and modest in nature, Doug’s leather plaiting and braiding work is sought out by admirers and collectors around the world. His […]
Videos: Following Your Leatherworking Passion
Today’s post is a collection of two videos. The first is an inspirational video from Jan den Hartogh of Duke & Sons Leather. Jan used to spend all day sitting behind a computer and started to feel like something important was missing from his life. As a result, he decided to take up leatherworking and […]
Videos: Leather Goods Makers Old and New
Today’s post is a collection of four videos. The first two are from established leather goods companies. I love the words of wisdom that these guys reveal about the craft and business. The second two are from younger companies with equally younger founders. There are some equally valuable insights covered here but from a very […]
The Work of Nigel Armitage
Two weeks ago, I posted an interview of leatherworking master and highly respected Youtuber, Nigel Armitage. This week, we’re featuring some of his work in a dedicated post. Enjoy! Check out more of Nigel’s work at www.armitageleather.com
Nigel Armitage: A Wealth Of Leatherworking Knowledge Both Close And Far From Home
Shortly after Stevie Bea graduated with a degree in fashion photography, she found herself at a pub in Tooting, London discussing leatherworking with a young man. While she was quite familiar with the craft, it wasn’t something she was focused on at that time in her life. As the conversation continued, the young man described […]
Videos: Making Watch Straps
This is a fairly detailed video by thewatches.tv shows the Hermes watch strap making process. It takes you on a journey from clicking out the leather all the way to sewing, edging and final fitting. Part One Part Two
Pinterest Highlights – Key Chains and Coin Pouches
I can’t help myself lately when I see keychains and small accessories. Something about the small details of these pieces are very enthralling and I end up saving a ton of pictures likes these. I think it’s in knowing how hard it is to make pieces this small, look good. Keychain Coin Pouch