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.

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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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In this episode of Leather Shop, we dive deep into the art of crafting baseball gloves with the legendary Scott Carpenter. From his beginnings in the New York art world to revolutionizing baseball glove design, Scott shares his fascinating journey and the intricate process behind creating the perfect glove. Discover the secrets, innovations, and passion that drive his craft. Whether you’re a baseball fan or a leather enthusiast, this episode offers a captivating inside look at the intersection of sports and craftsmanship.Join our Patreon for access to our discord channel

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.

Join our Patreon for access to our discord channel

Bowthemaker.com

Explore the Art of Leathercraft with Kayleena from Wrackline Leatherware: A Journey of Creativity, Business, and Passion

Discover the inspiring journey of Kayleena from Wrackline Leatherware in this captivating episode of the Leather Shop podcast. Kayleena shares her innovative approach to leathercraft, blending traditional techniques with modern artistry. Whether you’re into DIY projects, small business entrepreneurship, or simply love hearing about creative pursuits, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips. Learn how Kayleena built her brand, the challenges she overcame, and her secrets to success. Perfect for hobbyists and entrepreneurs alike, tune in for a story that bridges passion with craftsmanship.

Join our Patreon for access to our discord channel

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.

Join our Patreon for access to our discord channel

Bowthemaker.com

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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alexissaab.com