The Makings of The Leather Smithy

Ever since I was young, I was always interested in creating things. I was amazed at watching skilled craftsmen execute their trade. Using their hands they would make beautiful pieces of art, as well as quality practical items that would last a long time. I was fortunate to be introduced to a group of blacksmiths that expressed such passion in their trade that they were willing to share it with anyone who wanted to learn. Later on in life, I have learned to appreciate the skill and knowledge that these craftsmen contained, and as individuals, just how inspirational they were. I also learned that unfortunately, some of that knowledge was getting lost.

I was fortunate to inherit leather craft tools from my father. I enjoyed leather craft as a hobby as I went on to pursue a career in dog training. I worked my way up to training working dogs and discovered a need for high quality training products. I went on to pursue a degree in Anthropology, which included working as an intern at a museum. During my internship, I was able to view historical pieces that were made with such fine craftsmanship that they were still around centuries later. As an intern, I was also fortunate to meet various traditional craftsmen that carried not just the knowledge, skill, and passion of their trade, but imbued pieces of their traditions and culture in their products as well.

This inspired me to take my hobby and turn it into something more... Certain life experiences have taught me that life is short, and if you have a passion for something to pursue it. I aim to make products that are long-lasting, practical, and unique. I also aim to continue learning my trade, and to continue to pass down some of the knowledge and traditions that I have been so fortunate to have experienced. I strive to keep craftsmanship going. Let me create a one-of-a-kind, practical, and beautiful piece for you or your special someone.

I am Lauren Gosciminski, founder of The Leather Smithy.

FAQ's

All items are handmade with care.

Each item is handcrafted. Please allow slight color variations from what is seen in the listing photos. Each piece of leather has its own natural hue, thus resulting in each piece dyeing slightly different. Please allow slight differences in each design due to it being entirely done by hand.

Custom and personalized orders

Please include all the information needed to complete your custom item in the notes section during checkout, or by contacting me directly. If you order a custom item, and more information is needed about your order, I will contact you with further questions. If an order is placed lacking the necessary information and I can not contact you, or I don't get a response within 24-48 hrs from when the order is placed, I will be forced to cancel your order and refund you in full.

The Leather Smithy uses only the best leather. Each hide is handpicked. Most items are made with the highest quality full-grain leather (some exceptions apply if the item calls for it - see each item's listing details for more info).

What is full-grain leather?

The four basic types of leather are: 1) Full-Grain: This is the highest-quality leather. Full-grain refers to the top layer of each hide. This layer has all the grain, and can include natural marks making each piece unique. This leather is durable, and will age with beauty as it will burnish. 2) Top-Grain: The second quality choice; the top layer of the hide is sanded and down to remove any blemishes. It is then refinished. Top grade does not age nicely. 3) Genuine Leather: The third quality choice; it is produced from layers of hide after the top is split off for the better grades. It is refinished to look like the higher grades. 4) Bonded Leather: Is the dust and shavings of leather glued together.

Leather Care and What does leather oz mean?

Each item is made from 100% high quality leather. All items are finished with a protective water resistant finish. This protects the item from light water exposure. As will all leather items, it is not good to soak/saturate the leather. Soaking leather dries out the natural oils. A water resistant finish has been applied to protect from light water exposure. Soaking the item can cause loss of dye, warping, and damage if not taken care of correctly. Different items require different oz leather. The oz of the leather is determined by the hide's thickness. Strength, stiffness, durability, practicality, and comfort are all factors that go into selecting the right oz leather for each item.

New Leather Products: Stiffness and Use

All items are made from new hides of leather. As with any new leather product, this means that (depending on the item), the leather may be a bit stiff at first. Each item will break in with use, become softer, yet retain its strength. This is especially true for the higher oz leather items such as dog collars and sport leashes.

Designs and Custom Design Requests

All items in my shop are hand drawn by me, unless otherwise stated. I do use some traditional western leather craft patterns which is stated in the listing. Please note that if a custom design is requested, I will not accept copyrighted designs. All designs sold by The Leather Smithy, with exception of traditional leather craft patterns, are the property of The Leather Smithy (this includes hand drawn custom designs drawn by The Leather Smithy).

Guitar Straps: Adjustment

There are two different length options for my standard guitar straps; Standard (45"-53"), or Long (53"-62"). For those who are tall (6 feet- 6 feet 2 inches or above) or who like to wear their guitar lower, you may want to select the "Long" option. All straps are made to a standard 2.5 inch width. Each strap is made up of two parts: The body (2.5" wide), and the adjustment strap (1" wide). The 1" wide adjustment weaves in and out of the holes in the body of the strap. I ship all my guitar straps adjusted to the closest hole. The 1" adjustment strap can be let out to the eight other holes if more length is needed. If a resonator guitar strap is needed, please contact me for more details.

Shipping

Free shipping is offered for all orders in the US! Expedited shipping options are available during checkout. The shipping price includes shipping and handling. Postal insurance is included for items over $100.00. If you would like insurance on your package (if under $100.00), please contact me. 

NOTE: Dog Collar Orders will Not Be Refunded if the Product is Misused

PLEASE NOTE: These collars are not meant to be used as a tie back. They are durable, but not meant for that type of use. The Leather Smithy is not responsible for any damage or harm caused to the collar or dog if the collar is used as a tie back collar. If you need a tie back collar, look into protection-grade collars that are a minimum of 2" wide for your dog's safety. Items that have been misused will not be refunded.

Want a discount? Become a SMITHY. Get 15% off your order. Sign up for The Leather Smithy's Newsletter to gain first access to new product releases, exclusive coupons, sales, events, behind the scenes and more! Receive an instant 15% OFF coupon code for any item in the store by signing up. Sign up for the Newsletter by copying and pasting the link below in your browser: http://eepurl.com/dq0g7v