CTS

My name is C.T. Strickland Jr., and I got interested in leather craft when I was almost 15. I checked out a crafts book at school library and it told me how to build a fast draw gun holster, and then listed Tandy Leather as a resource. That was all it took to spark my interest and over the years I have made everything from arm bands, wallets, belts, gun holsters (yes that same one), handbags, and musical instrument straps.

In 2002 I discussed the concept of building a custom mandolin designer strap for bluegrass-country recording artist, Rhonda Vincent, which I delivered in early 2003. Soon others saw hers, and I continued to make more unique straps. In 2004 I founded CT Music Straps Inc. I work with an Independent Freelance Calligrapher and she designs much of the custom lettering for our clients. She and I work with clients to determine their selections, and also collaborate with other independent designers to craft products to our company's standards. Lately I have been designing stage accessories to add to our product line as well.

In addition to leatherwork, I also draw, used to oil paint years ago, and I like hunting and fishing when I have time. I have been married to my wife since 1981, and we have three children: two which are grown and moved out, and one still at home which is in the boy scouts as well as sports with community and school. I also enjoy wood and metal working, but do not get to as much of that lately. My other work have been largely manufacturing related, with careers in production, engineering-cad, and lately operations.

I am an ordained minister and assist at our church in teaching adult Bible classes or filling the pulpit on occasion.