My Background
Growing up I spent a lot of time at my best friend’s ranch house where her mother had a leather shop. I would spend countless hours watching her create these beautiful designs on leather. When I was old enough that she trusted me to use the tools without cutting a finger off I began learning. I started out with the basics and her instructing everything I do. Years went on and on, my skills developed and my love grew. I am still learning more every time I create something.
Why I Carve Leather
I enjoy carving and stamping leather because it is creative. I have always been obsessed with the idea of putting something out into the world besides myself, like a testament to my existence. I believe this is achieved my making something. The opportunities are endless with the designs you can make and what you can do.
I especially like it because leather work lasts and you can use it. Being creative in a useful way brings me satisfaction when I see someone using something I made.
Leather work is a nice stress reliever for me. Life is constantly moving and things are always happening. It is where I go to stop time and relax. It takes just enough concentration that other things fall out of mind, but not too much that it’s exhausting.
Pounding something with a mallet releases all the not so fun things about life without damaging anything. You know how people always say “punch a pillow” or “take up boxing” to let it all out? Well, I pound leather and create something at the same time.
Bevel 