Creative Leathercraft with Oregon’s Walnut Studiolo

By Gene Fowler

“Necessity,” decreed the Greek philosopher Plato, “is the mother of invention.”

That Plato was a pretty smart guy. He made that observation some 2,400 years ago, and it still holds water today. Geoffrey Franklin, a native Read more

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Dave Munson and the Coolest Bag Ever

The Story of Saddleback Leather

By Nick Pernokas

Dave had designed the coffin himself. Built from leather, it was a gorgeous piece with options to make the ride to the afterlife convenient. There were pockets for storage and a Read more

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Awl Snap

By Danna Burns-Shaw
Awl Snap Erin McRoberts

It is interesting to learn what inspires and influences young entrepreneurs. How they let go of their security blanket (9 to 5 job) and take the plunge into the unknown to start Read more

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A Q&A with Odin Clack of Odin Leather Goods

By Liisa Andreassen

 

What started out as an experiment, evolved into a hobby and ultimately a thriving leather goods business and successful brand.

“Initially, there was nothing intentional about it,” Odin Clack, founder of Odin Leather Goods, explains. Read more

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Bobby Woodward

Earthly Connection

By Danna Burns-Shaw

Most artisans strive to unfold and create a signature style that gives their work a special identification. Perhaps a bold stroke, soft lines, a special finishing touch… some sort of embellishment that will immediately Read more

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Peter Hoffman

Creating a Brand

By Danna Burns-Shaw

When you visit with Peter Hoffman you instantly know he is very passionate about his business.  He dedicates 100% of himself to its success. He is single with no children, so 100 Read more

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Musician Creates Manufacturing Niche

By Liisa Andreassen

When the Hunker Bag Co. launched in April 2015, it was music to the ears of many. Denton Hunker, currently the company’s only employee, is not only a musician, but apparently a master of the sewing Read more

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Iowa Company Keeps the Hunting Experience in its Sights

Boyt Harness is all about outdoor sporting gear

By Lynn Ascrizzi

Adaptability, creativity and quality are the distinctive hallmarks of long-time, successful businesses. And, let’s not forget plain, old-fashioned grit and hard work. Traits like these have kept Boyt Read more

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Brit West:

Repurposing Dreams

By Danna Burns-Shaw

When you first meet Brittain Roberts, the self-taught artist and creator of Brit West, you are mesmerized by her sheer beauty. She is an authentic, stunning, high-style Wyoming cowgirl!  Brit’s adventuresome life stories are Read more

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