Members WyomingSlick Posted January 23, 2010 Members Report Posted January 23, 2010 Hi everybody, Glad to be here even if I do piss folks off once in a while. While leatherwork has been part of my life for over 45 years, it is just a hobby to me. I have sold quite a few peices over the years but I am a far stretch from a professional carver. I started out my leather learnin' with a wonderful teacher in 4-H who not only was a patient man but a very fine craftsman. Unfortunately, that was only for two years. But since then, I have had many wonderful teachers; Al Stohlman, Ken Griffin, Al Stohlman, F O Baird, Al Stohlman, etc.... And then there were all the great lessons from Doodle Pages. Cliff Ketchum's pages were the supreme example of tooling artistry - always regretted that he didn't have more of his work and designs published. And then there was Al Stohlman. As you probably noticed, he receives multiple thanks as a teacher. By far, and then, even farther; the greatest teacher of leatherwork ever. I have seen a few disparaging remarks about the Stohlman style in these forums and all I can say is some fools don't know anything. He is to the leatherworld what The Ventures are to guitar players. LOL Another passion of mine (86 records of theirs). Attachment - a few of my past endeavors Quote (John 8:32) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (KJV) And the truth is that religion is nothing more than the lame attempt by largely ignorant people to bring sense and order to a world that was beyond their comprehension. Once you see religion for the delusional and superstitious artifact it is............... you will be free !
Members JRedding Posted January 23, 2010 Members Report Posted January 23, 2010 Hi everybody, Glad to be here even if I do piss folks off once in a while. While leatherwork has been part of my life for over 45 years, it is just a hobby to me. I have sold quite a few peices over the years but I am a far stretch from a professional carver. I started out my leather learnin' with a wonderful teacher in 4-H who not only was a patient man but a very fine craftsman. Unfortunately, that was only for two years. But since then, I have had many wonderful teachers; Al Stohlman, Ken Griffin, Al Stohlman, F O Baird, Al Stohlman, etc.... And then there were all the great lessons from Doodle Pages. Cliff Ketchum's pages were the supreme example of tooling artistry - always regretted that he didn't have more of his work and designs published. And then there was Al Stohlman. As you probably noticed, he receives multiple thanks as a teacher. By far, and then, even farther; the greatest teacher of leatherwork ever. I have seen a few disparaging remarks about the Stohlman style in these forums and all I can say is some fools don't know anything. He is to the leatherworld what The Ventures are to guitar players. LOL Another passion of mine (86 records of theirs). Attachment - a few of my past endeavors Slick, I doubt you'll find anyone who just wants to argue, that's not what people come here for. It's becoming apparant you're the guy no one invites to the party twice. Quote
Members Spence Posted January 23, 2010 Members Report Posted January 23, 2010 Quote Spence Mendoza, TX, USA
Members dustin29 Posted January 23, 2010 Members Report Posted January 23, 2010 Nice looking work Slick!! Quote
Members terrahyd Posted January 23, 2010 Members Report Posted January 23, 2010 (edited) <P>HI GUY</P> Edited January 24, 2010 by terrahyd Quote
Members rickeyfro Posted January 24, 2010 Members Report Posted January 24, 2010 I thought the whole point of forums was for people to discuss there opinions, seems like if everyone that dares to disagree with yours is a fool you may wanna just open two email accounts and write yourself... Quote
Hilly Posted January 24, 2010 Report Posted January 24, 2010 (edited) Edited January 24, 2010 by Hilly Quote
King's X Posted January 24, 2010 Report Posted January 24, 2010 I say screw'em if they can't take a joke. Everyone needs to just take a break and worry about their own problems. This is a forum, and by its definition, it an open discussion area (within the guidelines we agree to). Not everyone learned everything about this craft from one person and it probably will never happen. One thing is for sure, there will be MANY who will stand out in our beloved craft and yes some will make notable history, such as Al Stohlman. I had the pleasure of having a conversation in great lengths with Al & Ann Stohlman 'handler' while he worked for Tandy many, many years ago. I learned many things about Mr. Stohlman from this person, as well as, Mrs. Stohlman. A plain fact was that he loved to teach and create, which is why some of the industry leaders created the coveted Stohlman Award, for those that give to this craft because they love it, not because she seek riches. Another interesting note, is that close to his end, Mr. Stohlman was quoted as saying the he was a little sad as he aged because he had enough information to fill 30 more books that he wanted to write so others like myself could learn and build my skills. Here is a man that was getting older and all he could think of was the knowledge he still had and wanted desperately to share with others. Wow! As for Mrs. Ann Stohlman, I can only repeat the words of her lovely husband and teacher. She was described as the 'best' student. I do feel some sadness myself, it was only because of an almost life ending incident that brought me to this craft, 30 years too late. I have had many hobbys in my life and I do not believe I have met so many wonderful and thoroughly dedicated fellow artisans as in leathercraft. A craft that was and in some instances still secreative (to a certain) extent, we find ourselves in a group of enthusists who love their craft and are willing to share. Yes, I have found some artisans who found me intrusive when I show some interest in their work and started my merage of questions. I soon found myself backing off and leaving well enough alone. Someone asked me recently why I enjoy giving or sending things to others beginning this craft (and other who are involved already) and expect nothing in return. I think it is my way of giving back to this craft. Even though I have been in this craft in such a short time. So, John, if you run out wall space as you go along; come over to my wall and do your thing. Speak your mind, of course.....man get your mind out of the gutter guys. Lighten up, live long! So, Git R' Done! Quote Greetings from Central Texas! The Grain Side Up blog #TheGrainSideUp
hidepounder Posted January 25, 2010 Report Posted January 25, 2010 (edited) Wyoming Slick...... I've read your post three or four times now trying to understand your point. I can only assume that the tone of your comments relate back to some earlier discussion that I'm not aware of. If your point is that you are a Stohlman deciple than you are in very good company, but I think you could probably have stated that without throwing down the guantlet. If your point was that you had the opportunity to learn from more of the greatest leather artists than the rest of us, then why the animosity? Most folks just come here for support and encouragement and to share their enthusiasm and knowledge...not to start an arguement. But if you're looking for a debate on styles or workmanship, or whatever....then I'm your huckleberry! Edited January 25, 2010 by hidepounder Quote
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