Leather Shop

IMatt sits down with Shane from Bow the Maker to talk about the tools every leatherworker thinks they need — and the ones that actually matter.
From $12 Amazon pliers to top-shelf skiving knives, they break down which tools perform, which ones disappoint, and how to buy smarter without wasting money. The two also tackle social media “tool envy,” influencer reviews, and how to build a functional bench setup at any level.
“You don’t need the prettiest tools — you need the ones that work for you.”
💬 Join the Leather Shop Discord
🧰 Check the Amazon Tool List
👉 Follow on Instagram: @leathershoppod
👉 More episodes: leathershoppod.com
👉 All links & resources: Linktree
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This is a long-form, no-rush conversation about leatherworking as it actually exists.
Bryan from Lowtide Leather joins the show to talk about staying small on purpose, working by hand, rising leather and tool costs, and why many makers quietly fund the craft long before it funds them.
If you’ve ever questioned growth, scale, or why you’re still doing this—this one will feel familiar.
Guest:
Lowtide Leather: https://www.lowtideleather.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lowtideleather/
💬 Join the Leather Shop Discord
🧰 Check the Amazon Tool List
👉 Follow on Instagram: @leathershoppod
👉 More episodes: leathershoppod.com
👉 All links & resources: Linktree
Support us on Patreon

IMatt sits down with Shane from Bow the Maker to talk about the tools every leatherworker thinks they need — and the ones that actually matter.
From $12 Amazon pliers to top-shelf skiving knives, they break down which tools perform, which ones disappoint, and how to buy smarter without wasting money. The two also tackle social media “tool envy,” influencer reviews, and how to build a functional bench setup at any level.
“You don’t need the prettiest tools — you need the ones that work for you.”
💬 Join the Leather Shop Discord
🧰 Check the Amazon Tool List
👉 Follow on Instagram: @leathershoppod
👉 More episodes: leathershoppod.com
👉 All links & resources: Linktree
Support us on Patreon

In this episode, Matt talks with Will Hodges of Treve Cambridge about the art of fine leatherwork. They explore the tools and techniques behind luxury craftsmanship, from handling exotic skins to achieving precision with stitching and skiving.
👉 Follow on Instagram: @leathershoppod
👉 More episodes: leathershoppod.com
👉 Recommended tools: Amazon Shop
👉 All links & resources: Linktree
Support us on Patreon

Inside Mack Provisions: Craftsmanship Beyond the Field
In this episode of The Leather Shop, Matt Roach is joined by KC of Mack Provisions, a handmade baseball glove company rooted in old-school leatherworking and modern craftsmanship. From glove relacing as a teenager to launching a full-time custom glove brand, KC shares his journey, philosophy, and what makes his gloves truly unique.
Whether you're a leatherworker, player, or lover of timeless design, this is your behind-the-scenes pass into glove-making at its finest.
🔍 Episode Highlights
Why Chrome-Tanned Leather Reigns Supreme
How KC Learned Craftsmanship in an Alaskan Tent Shop
The Horween Leather Advantage
Canvas vs. Leather: What You Need to Know
The Great Glove Break-In Debate
Tools of the Trade: Cylinder Arm Machines, Tex 135 Thread, and More
Why Suede Welting is Making a Comeback
About KC & Mack Provisions
KC started relacing gloves for teammates at age 13. After stints in Alaska sewing canvas tents and marine gear, he transitioned into building premium handmade baseball gloves using materials like Horween’s Ball Glove X leather, real shearling padding, and custom welting techniques.
His approach blends nostalgia with durability, favoring rugged, vintage aesthetics and minimal synthetic components. Each glove is made to order, emphasizing craftsmanship over mass production.
📷 Follow KC on Instagram: @mackprovisions
Craft Tips from the Episode
The Truth About Glove Construction
“Sewing a baseball glove is the hardest thing I’ve ever sewn—and I’ve worked on yachts, tents, and boat canvas.” – KC
Why Thread and Machine Choice Matter
Use UV-rated nylon thread like Tex 135, and invest in a cylinder arm machine for maximum control.
Break-in Methods
Skip the water dunk. Use a mallet and play catch for best results—especially when using wool padding.
Related Episodes
🎙️ How Scott Makes Gloves: The Deep Craft of Baseball Leather
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