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Welcome to Griffin Leathercraft
Handmade in East Tennessee
I’m Tori Griffin, and I make every leather piece by hand.
I believe in creating leather items that last a lifetime. I hope my work brings you joy for many years.
Process and materials
I create every piece with my own two hands—no sewing machines. All items are cut, saddle stitched, dyed, and finished by hand. This leads to the most unique and long-lasting items.
Most of my work uses full-grain, veg-tan cowhide. Some pieces may incorporate other types of leather, which will be listed on the product page.
I’m very transparent about the materials and methods used. If you have questions, please feel free to contact me.
Made to order
Most pieces are custom-made to order. Depending on the piece, there will be a lead time of 1–4 weeks while I craft it to your specifications. If you need the piece by a certain date, please contact me before placing your order.
Custom commissions
I accept custom commissions on a case-by-case basis. Please contact me for information about custom projects, such as knife sheaths, archery gloves, or custom designs.
More about me
I am a fiction author and a book editor. I founded Blue Pen, which offers editing and book design services.
My short fiction has appeared in more than forty publications, and I am represented by Sandy Lu of Bookwyrm Literary Agency. I am a member of the Knoxville Writers’ Guild, the Editorial Freelancers Association, and the Appalachian Studies Association.
I am an avid backpacker, and I disappear into the Great Smoky Mountains at every opportunity. My husky, Rocket, proudly tests my leather dog leashes.
Griffin Leathercraft FAQs
How are your handmade leather items different from mass-produced ones?
Would you rather have a leather item that was cranked out by a machine somewhere in China or a one-of-a-kind piece that was designed and brought to life in a little spot in East Tennessee?
I put my heart into each piece I create, and I use the traditional methods that result in leather pieces that are passed down through generations.
What type of leather do you use?
Most pieces are made with full-grain, vegetable-tanned cowhide. Full-grain leather is the highest-quality, most durable leather available. Some items may also incorporate other types of leather, such as suede, buffalo, or deerskin. Each product page specifies the materials used.
How should I care for my handmade leather item?
Try to keep your leather item out of extreme heat or moisture. Use a soft, damp cloth for cleaning, and apply a leather conditioner occasionally to keep the leather supple. I love Aussie Leather Conditioner from Fiebing’s, and I finish the majority of my items with Aussie.
What finishes do you use on your handmade leather items?
For pieces that will be exposed to daily use, such as wallets, keychains, and notebooks, I finish the leather with Aussie Leather Conditioner from Fiebing’s. Other items may be finished with Resolene or Bee Natural RTC Sheridan Resist & Finish. The finish used is specified on each product page.
Can I request a custom leather product or design?
Absolutely! I consider custom commissions on a case-by-case basis. Contact me to discuss what you’re looking for.
Are your handmade leather products environmentally friendly?
In a world where throwaway products are the norm, handmade leather items are much more environmentally friendly. I believe in creating pieces that stand the test of time and honor the life of the animals that provide the leather.
It is our responsibility to use animal hides thoughtfully and purposefully, creating pieces that are cherished for generations. Not items that will be replaced a year later.
My process minimizes waste by using even the smallest scrap leather. And by purchasing directly from the leatherworker, you minimize packaging.
Are your handmade leather items suitable for everyday use?
Yes, absolutely. I create items that are meant to be used. My methods are the same ones you would use to create saddles. These handmade leather products are built to take a beating and keep doing work.
What is your return policy?
Because items are made to order, I do not accept returns in most cases. Rest assured that I work to ensure every item meets my standards of quality, and if there is an error with your order, I will make it right. Please review the full return policy.
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.