Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlie Blue
Hi Charlie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I learned about leatherwork from my dad when I was a kid. I picked it back up in 2020. I have been practicing and expanding my skillset to craft timeless leather lifestyle goods with and without traditional tooling elements.
More recently I begun focusing my efforts on providing cobbler services offering boot and shoe repair up to and including full restoration of boots and shoes.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This adventure has been a real learning curve, coordinating the balance of artisan markets and custom orders as well as continuing to learn and grow in the craft. The largest challenge has been the added adventure of leaving a full time job to pursue this dream. The ultimate dream is to have a storefront to offer custom leather goods and boot repair.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work in leather is rooted in traditional western leather tooling. Perhaps in a broader sense it is rooted in my appreciation for rich timeless craftsmanship. I am focusing my attention more on the repair side of the leather world and being more selective and intentional with custom orders and inventory goods.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I think there is a growing appreciation for the effort that goes into an item that ultimately reflects that in its style and quality. A well made leather accessory is constructed and designed with longevity in mind providing an heirloom quality. Likewise there seems to be a growing importance to preserve old fashioned services like custom leather goods and repair that feeds into a set of values that range from increasing responsible manufacturing and reducing wasteful consumerism by insisting on quality items that last, and services to repair them and keep them in working order.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Meanderingblues.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meanderingblues/profilecard/?igsh=dWpwNDlkbW8zenBi
