This is a long-form, no-rush conversation about leatherworking as it actually exists.

Bryan from Lowtide Leather joins the show to talk about staying small on purpose, working by hand, rising leather and tool costs, and why many makers quietly fund the craft long before it funds them.

If you’ve ever questioned growth, scale, or why you’re still doing this—this one will feel familiar.

In this episode of The Leather Shop Podcast, host Matt Roach is joined by returning guest Shane from Bow the Maker for an in-depth conversation about one of the most confusing (and expensive) parts of leathercraft — choosing the right tools.

Will Hodges of Treve Cambridge shares his journey from paramedic to fine leather artisan. We dig into the challenges of working with exotic leathers, the tools that elevate craftsmanship, and why precision matters in every stitch.

KC of Mack Provisions joins us to talk glove making, Horween leather, and the craft of turning canvas and stitches into baseball heritage.

Discover Stevie's journey from medical trauma tech to leather artisan in the shotgun sports world. In this episode of Leather Shop, Matt and Stevie dive into the craft, tools, and mindset behind Hellbound and Back Leather's functional and artistic gear for trap shooters.

he questions came from you — and now it’s time to dive in. In this special listener-submitted Q&A, I sat down with Shane Bowman (aka Bow the Maker) to answer the things you’ve been dying to know about leathercraft, gear, and growing a small maker brand.

From how Shane got into laser engraving (and why it cost him thousands) to the tools he’d buy again (and the ones he wouldn’t), this episode covers the business, the craft, and the chaos that comes with turning a passion into a profession.

We also talk about:

• What makes good pattern design (and why most of them suck)

• Clicker dies and the Temu trap

• Choosing gear that fits your craft — not just the hype

Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up your shop, this one’s packed with real advice, hard-earned lessons, and enough banter to keep your glue from drying out.

🎧 This is Part 1 — we got so many great questions, we had to split it in two.

🛠️ Hosted by Matt Roach | Guest: Shane Bowman (@bowthemaker)

Sarah Roe of Stitch & Roe shares how she turns vintage baseball mitts into heirloom leather goods. Discover the craftsmanship, challenges, and stories behind repurposing cherished gloves into wallets and keepsakes.

In this episode of The Leather Shop, host Matt Roach sits down with Justin from Wylie’s Wood and Leather to explore his fascinating journey from Hollywood actor and producer to a skilled craftsman of wood and leather goods. Dive into the challenges and triumphs of leaving behind a traditional career to pursue a life of creativity and self-reliance. Justin shares stories about his early days in Los Angeles, his transition from TV production to woodworking, and his deep passion for crafting quality, enduring products. Plus, the duo discusses the importance of preserving traditional skills in a disposable society, tools every maker needs, and the joys (and struggles) of shop organization. A must-listen for creators, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration to chase their dreams.

Support us on Patreon

Join us as we chat with Corbin Edwards of Corbin Lane Leather Co. about his unique journey from knife-making to leathercraft. Discover how Corbin turned his passion into a thriving leather business, the challenges he faced along the way, and valuable insights for aspiring makers and entrepreneurs alike.

https://www.corbinlaneleatherco.com/

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