Repairs
Restoration and renewal
My most satisfying work is giving leather a second chance; preserving its character while restoring its function. When looked after, well-made leather goods are extremely durable, but they will eventually need repair or restoration. I can reverse the effects of wear and tear, mistreatment or environmental damage in many leather goods, bringing them back into use or preserving precious memories. Because I stitch by hand, I can work on fragile or inaccessible items impossible to mend on a machine, from bags to chairs and even building accessories! Each repair is carefully planned, sourcing the right materials and identifying appropriate techniques.
‘Phoenixing’ your favourites
My most common repairs are on bag straps and belts, giving them another lease of life – but over the years, I have renewed items as varied as binoculars, hat boxes, collar boxes, an oxen yoke, tool rolls and trunk handles. There are some repairs I can’t take on, as I don’t work with softer clothing or upholstery leather, but I’m always happy to take a look and suggestion other artisans who might be able to help.
Renovate, repair, reuse
My saddlery skills are a great fit for repairing leather chairs! Hand-stitching tanned leather panels for seats, backs and arms has a double benefit: I can take on repairs that need to be done on the furniture frame where it isn’t possible to machine stitch; and I can re-use existing holes, thereby maintaining the strength and integrity of the leather. The furniture I repair often has a family or historic connection for the client, and there’s nothing more satisfying for me than bringing these pieces back into use again.