February Meeting of The Leathercraft Guild

Attending the Leathercraft Guild meetings has been an inspiring experience for me as an enthusiast of traditional leathercraft and saddle making. This upcoming February 15th meeting is not just another gathering; it offers a unique opportunity to preview the highly anticipated Saddle #002 made by Van Plew. This saddle is an official entry for the 2026 Emerging Saddlemakers Competition, and being able to see it firsthand before it hits the competitive arena provides valuable insight into the evolving art of saddle making. From my experience, meeting events like this deepen appreciation for the precision, creativity, and skill that go into creating custom saddles. Last year's competition saw innovative designs and meticulous handcrafting, especially highlighted by Steve’s award-winning saddle at Prescott’s Emerging Saddlemakers Competition. Such events also foster a vibrant community where both seasoned artisans and newcomers exchange ideas, answer questions, and share techniques. For those interested in leathercraft, previewing a saddle like Van Plew’s Saddle #002 allows you to examine the fine stitching, tooling details, and ergonomic design that contribute to both functionality and artistic value. The chance to interact directly with the makers and fellow enthusiasts at Standing Bear’s Trading Post adds a personal touch often missing from online viewing alone. If you appreciate craftsmanship, want to learn about the latest trends in saddlemaking, or dream of entering such competitions yourself, attending this event is well worth your time. It reinforces the importance of community and hands-on engagement in preserving and advancing traditional crafts. The Leathercraft Guild meetings offer exactly that, turning passion into tangible, inspiring experiences.