Hi everyone,
As the post mentions I'm from Toronto, Canada. I've always loved leather, the touch, scent, visual aesthetics, the only other material that can come close to it for all 3 senses is wood , but can't be worn.
I'm always on the look out for good leather gear for my bike and myself, but recently have noticed most of the items I love are from far out places like Europe or South and customizing it to what I want and connecting with people from abroad to explain to them my wants becomes such a challenge, plus with shipping and duty the price can get way out. So this got me into seriously considering the trade myself, I know the initial cost will be higher than just buying from there, but there will be a sense of pride in making my own.
Here in Toronto, Canada I don't know where to start, I was hoping in sourcing some beginner classes but have had no luck in finding them around here. I want to get into motorcycle saddles, Tool bags, regular bags and seat upholstery. I want to learn the basics if possible by a class or one on one instructor. I've visited the Tandy website, but that is in UK, I'm hoping I can find a local place here to buy the tools and leather. Hoping any Canucks here can guide me.
On an off note I was wandering why is the U.K is big on leather items with quality, also some parts of Europe as well (I know Italy is renowned for it's tanneries and leather but was surprised about U.K.) . I've ordered beautiful saddle bags that were rich thick leather from U.K before and currently found this one leather maker in Germany, but he's soooo busy , each time I email him I get a response a few days later and then I can't get a hold of him on a timely basis, I don't think he is interested in supplying to Toronto as he must be inundated with enough work in Europe alone. Here below is what he makes and I'm hoping that one day I'll be able to make something so beautiful as well. His work consists of forming leather and staining it in such deep rich hues.
His website is: www.rarebag.de
