This month on "Leather Shop," we're joined by Shane from Bow the Maker, who dives into an array of topics including his exciting new business venture that offers customized snaps for makers of all sizes. Shane shares his unique approach to leathercrafting, revealing how his passion for art seamlessly integrates into every facet of his business. Tune in for an inspiring session that bridges traditional craftsmanship with innovative business ideas.

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Episode Notes:

01:36 The Journey of a Maker: From Woodworking to Leathercraft

04:18 Embracing the Maker's Spirit: Challenges and Triumphs

05:06 The Leap into Leathercraft: A Tale of Passion and Pens

15:17 Crafting a Business: The Birth of Bow the Maker

22:14 The Art of Sharing Knowledge in the Maker Community

29:15 Innovating the Craft: Laser Engraving and Beyond

39:17 Expanding Horizons: New Ventures and Maker Support

49:11 Navigating the Leather Crafting Journey: Tips and Community Insights

49:37 The Maker's Dilemma: Balancing Exploration and Economics

50:16 Fostering a Supportive Maker Community

51:11 The Business Side of Crafting: Selling and Pricing Strategies

52:40 Innovating with Unique Products: The Challenge of Pricing

58:48 The Value of Community Feedback and Collaboration

59:18 Navigating Different Maker Spaces: Leathercraft vs. Lasering

01:01:39 The Importance of Kindness and Support in Online Communities

01:07:35 Personal Growth and Learning in the Maker Space

01:29:17 The Challenges and Rewards of Sharing Your Work Online

01:34:53 Creating and Nurturing a Positive Maker Community

01:37:15 Navigating the World of Online Communities and Learning

01:37:47 The Evolution of Sewing Machines and Leather Crafting

01:38:39 The Beauty of Simplicity in Craftsmanship

01:40:23 The Aesthetics vs. Functionality Debate in Crafting Tools

01:42:48 Embracing Technology: The Rise of 3D Printing in Crafting

01:43:40 The Journey of Learning and Sharing in the Crafting Community

01:45:38 The Challenges and Triumphs of Crafting

01:46:41 The Value of Minimalism and Efficiency in Crafting

01:55:51 Exploring the Potential of Splits in Leather Crafting

02:09:33 Looking Ahead: The Future of Crafting and Community Building

Special thanks to all our partners. Their support makes this content possible. Please visit these sites below to purchase products discussed on this episode.

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In this engaging conversation between Matt Roach and Alexis Saab on "The Leather Shop" podcast, they delve deep into the world of custom shoe crafting, sharing their personal journeys from painting to leatherwork, exploring the intricacies of the craft, and discussing the challenges and rewards of creating custom sneakers. They exchange insights on the tools and techniques that have shaped their work, reflecting on the continuous learning and adaptation required to excel in the dynamic field of bespoke footwear.

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Crafting Custom Shoes: Exploration of Leatherwork, Tools, Techniques and Trends

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:42 Alexi Saab's Journey into Handmade Sneakers

01:32 The Art of Customizing Shoes

02:19 The Shoe Surgeon's Influence and Learning Experience

03:03 Challenges and Learning Curve in Leather Crafting

03:59 The Importance of Understanding Leather Types

05:43 The Journey of Learning and Experimenting with Suede

09:24 The Transition from Painting to Leather Crafting

12:45 The Role of Machines in Leather Crafting

14:56 The Art of Making Leather Sneakers

17:14 The Challenges and Solutions in Leather Crafting

20:38 The Use of Technology in Leather Crafting

31:51 The Marvel of Custom Leather Design

36:11 Exploring the World of Custom Printing

36:42 The Art of Custom Sneakers

37:07 Shoutout to Fellow Customizers

37:48 The Journey to Making Custom Shoes

38:19 The Challenges of Shoe Making

39:33 The Intricacies of Shoe Sewing Machines

40:10 The Struggles of Choosing the Right Machine

42:54 The Importance of the Right Sewing Machine Foot

50:17 The Dream of Designing Custom Sneakers

51:27 The Reality of Shoe Making Business

56:22 The Importance of the Right Tools in Leather Crafting

01:02:51 The Impact of Shipping and Duties on Business

01:13:42 The Significance of a Good Knife in Leather Crafting

01:17:02 Debating the Size of Blades

01:17:13 Discussing the Kiwi Purchase

01:17:28 Comparing Plastic and Plywood Kiwis

01:18:31 The Importance of Knife Sharpness

01:19:15 Discovering the Kiwi Creators

01:20:04 The Excitement of Supporting Local Brands

01:20:53 The Connection to Local Brands

01:22:34 The Thread Debate

01:25:33 The Challenges of Changing Pricking Irons

01:43:47 The Future of Custom Shoes

01:49:00 Wrapping Up the Conversation

Special thanks to all our partners. Their support makes this content possible. Please visit these sites below to purchase products discussed on this episode.

Leather Machine Co

Milwaukee Steel Rule Dies

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00:00 Introduction and Apologies for the Missed Episode

00:32 Introducing the Guest: Ben from Benjamin Bot

01:15 Technical Difficulties and Scheduling Challenges

01:37 Ben's Journey into Leather Crafting

02:51 The Challenges of Starting in Leather Crafting

04:00 The Evolution of Ben's Leather Crafting Techniques

05:06 Discussion on Design Choices and Techniques

05:50 The Use of Machinery in Leather Crafting

06:42 Keeping Tools Sharp and Efficient

08:48 The Art of Edge Finishing

10:41 The Struggles with Sandpaper and Other Materials

12:51 The Process of Designing and Creating Wallets

15:28 The Importance of Customer Feedback and Improvement

19:27 The Use of a Clicker in Leather Crafting

22:26 The Challenges of Keeping Tools Sharp

28:15 The Use of a 3D Printer in Leather Crafting

48:16 Introduction to Bamboo Labs

48:42 Unboxing the X1 Carbon

49:07 Exploring the Features of X1 Carbon

49:26 Practical Applications of X1 Carbon

50:08 The Speed and Efficiency of X1 Carbon

50:51 The Versatility of 3D Printing

51:34 The Challenges of Space and Temperature

53:11 The Joy of Prototyping

53:51 The Power of 3D Printing

55:38 The Magic of Carbon Fiber

56:05 Learning Fusion and Measuring Techniques

57:31 The Art of Making Leather Snaps

58:57 The Future of Leather Crafting

01:04:59 The Journey of a Craftsman

01:05:33 The Beauty of Failing and Learning

01:06:59 The High Cost of Leather Crafting

01:09:30 The Evolution of Style and Craft

01:12:19 The Power of Creativity and Innovation

01:16:36 The Future of BB Brand

01:20:09 The Joy of Being a Lefty

01:22:57 The Journey of a Craftsman: Part 2

01:28:50 Conclusion: The Power of Community

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Okada Plane

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Special thanks to all our partners. Their support makes this content possible. Please visit these sites below to purchase products discussed on this episode.

Leather Machine Co

Milwaukee Steel Rule Dies