This episode is a nearly two-hour, free-flowing conversation with Bryan from Lowtide Leather about the realities of leatherworking that rarely get shared online.
From intentionally staying small and working out of sheds and spare rooms, to the rising cost of leather, tools, and hardware, this episode explores what it actually looks like to make things by hand over the long haul. The conversation blends philosophy, humor, parenting, craft economics, favorite tools, and the shared experiences that most leatherworkers quietly relate to.
There’s no blueprint, no hustle pitch, and no highlight reel—just an honest look at why many makers keep going even when growth is slow and profit isn’t guaranteed.
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This episode is a nearly two-hour, free-flowing conversation with Bryan from Lowtide Leather about the realities of leatherworking that rarely get shared online.
From intentionally staying small and working out of sheds and spare rooms, to the rising cost of leather, tools, and hardware, this episode explores what it actually looks like to make things by hand over the long haul. The conversation blends philosophy, humor, parenting, craft economics, favorite tools, and the shared experiences that most leatherworkers quietly relate to.
There’s no blueprint, no hustle pitch, and no highlight reel—just an honest look at why many makers keep going even when growth is slow and profit isn’t guaranteed.
You Asked, We Answered: Maker Q&A with Bow the Maker (Part 1)
Leather Shop
1 hour 10 minutes 25 seconds
9 months ago
You Asked, We Answered: Maker Q&A with Bow the Maker (Part 1)
he questions came from you — and now it’s time to dive in. In this special listener-submitted Q&A, I sat down with Shane Bowman (aka Bow the Maker) to answer the things you’ve been dying to know about leathercraft, gear, and growing a small maker brand.
From how Shane got into laser engraving (and why it cost him thousands) to the tools he’d buy again (and the ones he wouldn’t), this episode covers the business, the craft, and the chaos that comes with turning a passion into a profession.
We also talk about:
What makes good pattern design (and why most of them suck)
Clicker dies and the Temu trap
Choosing gear that fits your craft — not just the hype
Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up your shop, this one’s packed with real advice, hard-earned lessons, and enough banter to keep your glue from drying out.
This is Part 1 — we got so many great questions, we had to split it in two.
️ Hosted by Matt Roach | Guest: Shane Bowman (@bowthemaker)
Leather Shop
This episode is a nearly two-hour, free-flowing conversation with Bryan from Lowtide Leather about the realities of leatherworking that rarely get shared online.
From intentionally staying small and working out of sheds and spare rooms, to the rising cost of leather, tools, and hardware, this episode explores what it actually looks like to make things by hand over the long haul. The conversation blends philosophy, humor, parenting, craft economics, favorite tools, and the shared experiences that most leatherworkers quietly relate to.
There’s no blueprint, no hustle pitch, and no highlight reel—just an honest look at why many makers keep going even when growth is slow and profit isn’t guaranteed.
