Heartily Handcrafted Leatherworks exists to provide quality handmade leather goods, first to a local community, then to you online. I chose the name Heartily from Colossians 3:23, which instructs us, “whatever you do, work Heartily as unto the Lord, and not for people.” I hope it will be a reminder to always apply the best effort in my work. I believe that when we work this way, everyone benefits.
The Maker
I (Trenton) first learned leatherwork from my dad. Growing up, I saw the things he made, from beautifully braided bullwhips, to elaborately decorated gun holsters and belts. I fell in love with the combination of rugged utility and artistic expression leather provides. In high school, I began practicing my own leather craft. In 2020, I found myself with a lot of extra time (perhaps you can relate), so I began really honing my skills with more projects.
In 2023, I travelled to West Asia for a cross-cultural training. While there, I connected with a local master leatherworker. I had the privilege of training under him, to bring my skills to a professional level. Working with my teacher (Jack), I saw the passion he had for his craft. He held the leather will such joy, almost a reverence. He delighted in the things he made, and he was always thrilled to pass that joy on to others. This inspired me to take all the skills and knowledge I had gained back with me as I returned home in May 2024, to bring that same passion to my own craft. I hope to be just as passionate and to find my space in my community as Jack has in his. So I am happy to be making handmade leather goods back in my little Louisiana hometown.
The Products
Everything I make is 100% handmade, no machines involved. I start with leather that’s been made more or less the same way it’s been made for thousands of years, with oak bark and other plant products. Known as vegetable tanning, this is a labor-intensive process that is more expensive and longer than the modern method of chrome-tanning. That harder process is worth it, as it creates a safer work environment for the tanners, has a much smaller impact on the environment (and our health), and provides a far higher quality leather. Vegetable tanned leather has a special quality. It improves with age, getting more resistant to wear and gaining a beautiful patina. A quality vegetable tanned leather product can last decades with proper care.
Sometimes, my stitching is mistaken for machine work, but it’s all by hand, using what’s known as a French saddle stitch. This 2-needle method allows for neat, uniform, overlapping stitches, which give the piece a strong and stylish finish. The end result is more resilient than machine stitching, as the threads are independent. If one breaks, the other will hold the piece together.
There are many advantages to artisan-made leather goods. Not only do you get something unique, but it is something that will last far longer than mass-produced goods.
Contact
Have questions about a product, concerns about your order, or an idea for a custom design? Get in touch!
Email:trenton@heartilyleather.com