About the leather artist

Tori Griffin

East Tennessee Leather Artist

I create one-of-a-kind, hand-tooled leather pieces that blend artistry, craftsmanship, and functionality. Every wallet, belt, and bag is more than an accessory — it’s a story, carefully etched and shaped by hand.
Leatherworking is not just what I do — it’s a way of honoring craft and creativity. I pour time, care, and intention into every piece, ensuring that each item is truly unique.

My story

How did I begin leatherwork? When I filled up my favorite leather writing notebook, I couldn’t find a new one I liked. So I decided to make one myself.

A few years later, I had a notebook and a new passion. I fell in love with traditional leathercraft one skill at a time.

More than a wallet

Every piece begins with a vision and a story. I hand-select quality leather and transform it with careful tooling, stitching, and finishing, creating items that are as functional as they are beautiful. Each wallet, bag, or accessory carries its own unique character—no two pieces are exactly alike. My goal is to craft leather art that resonates with the person who carries it, turning everyday items into something personal, meaningful, and enduring.

FAQs

Why limited releases?

My passion isn’t in creating hundreds of the same item. It’s in crafting new designs and unique artwork. I put all of my energy and heart into every piece I create. Because of that, I release a very small number of pieces at a time.

Where do you get your leather?

My leather hides are from Wickett & Craig tannery in Pennsylvania. Wickett & Craig sources hides from North American cattle, is certified for its environmental sustainability practices, and provides consistently beautiful vegetable tanned leather.

How did you get started with leatherworking?

One day, I filled up my writing notebook and went to find another. The mass-produced, cheaply made options I found were not doing it for me, so I decided to try to make one. This led to an obsession passion that filled my house with hides and tools. I see the items a I make as pieces of art that will be used and will contribute to folks’ lives.

Do you teach leatherworking?

Yes, I have taught leatherworking classes at the Appalachian Arts Craft Center in Norris, Tennessee.

What is traditional leatherworking?

In my traditional leatherworking practice, I do not use modern machinery. Many leatherworkers will use machines to cut, stitch, and burnish the leather. While this is certainly faster, something is lost in the race for efficiency.

Instead, I do everything by hand. I cut with an antique round knife I restored early in my leatherworking journey. I saddle stitch all pieces by hand, which results in much stronger stitching. And I spend hours burnishing and finishing my leather the old-fashioned way—because I believe it’s worth it.

About the leather artist

Tori Griffin

My story​

More than a wallet

FAQs

My story