Everything Horses and Livestock® Magazine February 2017 Vol 2 Issue 1

Everything Horses and Livestock Magazine

Continued from Page 4

Randy began to explain the process of wetting the leather, molding, carving, painting. Hard work and countless hours goes into each piece. I love looking at all the cre-

ations that this top craftsman can do. I ask Randy, “when did you realize you had a passion for working with leather.” Ran- dy explained “When I was in elementary school, I asked for a Tandy leather working kit for Christ-

dered, 1938, who ordered it, who the saddle maker was that made it and the delivery date. The customer was really happy to find out this information. He really enjoys the custom work. Creating his customers visions of belts, chaps, chinks, holsters, lamps, shaving kits, and the likes, these special projects keeps his creativity flowing and challenges his skills. Randy and his wonderful wife Debbie are enjoying their trips together. Whether on horseback or motor- cycle, they love spending their time adventuring new places.

mas. I began with that set, and a great art teacher.” His passion grew each year as he studied different leather work techniques. Through the years, Randy and his son Riley have spent hours together in the leather shop. Riley seams to have a “natural” knack for leather work. In no time at all, his pieces like his fathers, were winning awards too in the International Federation of Leather Guilds shows. There are three different levels of show competition; open, advanced and master. This is the only organization in the world that can issue a certification to a leather worker on his or her skill level. Their passion and winnings were first featured in a 2005 article written by Bob Harrington for the Miami County Republic. Since then several publications have focused on Cornelius Saddlery’s continued talent with various leather work. Saddle restoration is another service that Randy offers. He loves the history behind each saddle he works on. This is an old Hamley saddle, it came in for some minor repairs. Randy knew it was old and de- cided to call Hamley’s as they were still in business. Randy was able to get the date the saddle was or-

Life is a Journey, Enjoy The Ride..~ Jana Barcus

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