I have been doing leather work off and on since the 70's and have within the last two years begun to exhibit my offerings via the web and Etsy. My first ever craft show was Niantic many, many years ago. I currently have been accepted into the West Hartford show and Niantic shows and have applied to Roseland Cottage.
All the work is mine and mine alone. All the designs are mine and from there I make the patterns necessary to start the process. I start with hides of various types of tannings and craft belts, purses, dog leashes and collars, wallets and various accessories. Prices start at $17.50 and can reach as high as $175.00 for my high-end purses.
For belts, collars and leashes I use only 8/9 oz. English Bridle Leather, which is vegetable tanned in the U.S.. Bridle is considered the finest leather for these types of products and will last indefinitely if cared for properly. Bridle becomes more supple as it ages and develops great character.
For purses and wallets, I use a variety of leather types depending on the piece. I use chrome tanned, vegetable tan and a combo of chrome and vegetable tanned leathers. I use only grade A leathers from 1 to2 oz for wallets to 3, 4 or 5 oz for purses.
For hardware I use only solid brass buckles, swivel snaps, rivets, loops etc. Brass maintains its character, bends not breaks and doesn't rust. I use brass or Nickle plated brass Chicago screws in lieu of rivets whenever possible.
