Our Story:

Founded in 2017, the Ozarks Leather Artisans Guild honors, celebrates, and preserves the heritage and artistry of leathercraft throughout the Ozarks. Our membership includes curious beginners, dedicated hobbyists, saddle makers, and master leatherworkers with years of experience. Although members bring different backgrounds and skill levels, they are united by a passion for creating with leather, improving their craft, and generously passing their knowledge on to others.

What We Create:

 Our members explore a wide variety of leatherworking traditions and specialties, including saddles, tack, clothing, belts, book covers, holsters, and knife sheaths. Some focus on practical, everyday pieces, while others create decorative or highly detailed works of art. Projects may feature carving, tooling, stamping, stitching, construction, and finishing techniques. By combining time-tested methods with modern tools and fresh ideas, members continue to expand their skills and express their individual creativity.

 Learning Together:

Regular meetings, demonstrations, hands-on classes, and community events give members many opportunities to learn, practice new techniques, exchange ideas, and build lasting friendships. Guest instructors and skilled artisans share practical guidance, specialized knowledge, and lessons gained through experience. Members also learn from one another by discussing projects, solving problems, and offering encouragement. Through these shared experiences, the guild strengthens the local leatherworking community and helps ensure that this time-honored craft continues to inspire future generations.