Sometimes a project comes together with materials that deserve to have their own story told. This contemporary pouch is one of those pieces.
The body is crafted from chestnut bark-tanned deer hide by the talented artisan behind Neanderthal Nonsense. Bark tanning is a slow, traditional process that produces leather with incredible character, and every hide is beautifully unique. If you haven’t seen his work, it’s well worth looking up. Inside, the pouch is lined with supple goat leather, giving it a smooth, durable interior.
The strap was woven from 100% wool by fellow artisanVicki Hast, whose beautiful work complements the leather perfectly. 
To tie everything together, I hand dyed the coordinating wool accents on the flap and welts using Queen Anne’s lace, allowing nature to provide the color palette.
The finishing touch is a period-style, unplated steel buckle that I hand browned to give it the rich, timeworn appearance it deserves.
Measuring approximately 8” × 9”, the pouch features an interior pocket and has been wet formed to create both structure and generous carrying capacity. All topstitching is a delicate 10 stitches an inch. 
 
It’s always rewarding when the work of several skilled craftspeople comes together in a single piece. I hope you’ll enjoy seeing this one in person.
It will make its debut at the upcoming Gunmakers Fair At Kempton, or, if you can’t make the show, it’s also available online.