Amidst the rolling hills of Valley Center, California, a new kind of craftsmanship has found a home at Buckeye Leather, where Benjamin Myers transforms his passion for leather crafting into both a hobby and a flourishing business. It started as a way to combat boredom during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Armed with inspiration and a suite of YouTube tutorials, Benjamin embarked on a journey of self-taught mastery over leather, fabricating his first leather project—a knife sheath—that would mark the beginning of an unexpected profession.
Buckeye Leather, named after a serene encounter with a majestic buck in the Valley Center hills, symbolizes not just the beauty of nature but also the beauty of creation from one’s own hands. Benjamin's initial projects quickly evolved into a variety of leather goods, including totes, wallets, bags, and purses. What sets Buckeye Leather apart is not only the quality and craftsmanship of the items but the story and passion behind each piece, turning every handcrafted item into a lifetime treasure.
Benjamin Myers believes in sharing his craft with others, extending an open invitation to friends and visitors to learn the art of leather crafting. By encouraging people to craft their own goods, he not only demystifies the process but also highlights the therapeutic aspect of this art form. Workshops at Buckeye Leather offer a hands-on experience that Benjamin emphasizes as not just about creating a product but about enjoying the serenity and satisfaction that comes with leather crafting. This approach has not only led to a newfound appreciation for handmade leather goods but has also fostered a strong sense of community among participants.
From a simple pastime born out of pandemic-induced downtime, Buckeye Leather has grown into a respected name, showcasing Benjamin's handcrafted products at Brick n' Barn, which he co-owns with his wife, Marlise. This venture not only serves as a platform for Benjamin to sell his creations but also acts as a beacon for the community's growing interest in handcrafted items. Customers are not just purchasing a piece of leather; they are investing in a story, a piece of art that will age beautifully and last a lifetime. Benjamin hopes that each item from Buckey Leather not only finds a place in people's lives but also encourages them to appreciate the beauty and durability of handcrafted leather goods.
In transforming a simple hobby into a thriving business, Benjamin Myers of Buckeye Leather not only showcases the resilience and adaptability of humans but also the profound joy found in creating something beautiful with one's own hands. His venture, a testament to the strength and beauty of leather, invites everyone to experience the charm of handcrafted goods, promising items that don’t just exist but live and age with grace. For those interested in owning a piece of this legacy or crafting one with their own hands, Buckeye Leather stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of handmade craftsmanship.
