Inside the Workshop: An Exclusive View at Custom Leather Goods Creation
At Victorymade Goods, custom leatherwork is an art form mastered by Danial Orchard. Each piece that leaves his workshop is a testament to his skill, vision, and dedication to creating goods that are meant to last.
Danial believes in making leather products that aren’t just functional, but deeply personal. Every stitch, cut, and polish is done with the client's vision in mind. His craftsmanship adds a special touch you just can’t get from mass-produced goods.
From Vision to Reality: How The Process Begins
Danial’s process begins with something simple: a conversation. Whether a client comes in with a clear idea or just a vague concept, he works to bring their vision to life. “A lot of clients bring me ideas they've found on Instagram or Pinterest," Danial explains. "Once I understand the vision, we will work together to refine the idea and create something special."
He emphases the importance of knowing your budget. An established budget helps him make recommendations that align with financial boundaries - without compromising quality.
Danial spends time guiding his clients, sharing his expertise on leather types, colours, and finishes. He helps clients make choices that ensure the finished product is exactly what they’re after, whether it includes a meaningful date, a simple monogram, or an intricate image.
The Art of Customizing a Leather Canvas
Customization is an art form, especially when working on a small canvas. "I focus on balancing what the client wants with what works best visually and practically. Too many elements can take away from the final product," Danial explains.
"Sometimes the simplest details, like initials, dates, or a favorite color, can make the biggest impression because they hold the most meaning."
In terms of selecting the type of leather, he uses top-quality materials. “I work with vegetable-tanned leather the most.” “Not only is this type of leather ideal for carving and dyeing, it is also durable and ages beautifully with time.”
Danial also works with exotic leathers like crocodile and kangaroo. “While these materials come at a premium due to their rarity, they offer exceptional results. Those pieces make luxurious gifts.”
Each leather hide is unique, which makes every project one of a kind. The texture, colour variations, and natural imperfections in the leather mean no two items are exactly alike. His pieces are designed to age with character, giving each product a unique story that evolves over time.
Once the leather and design are finalized, the real work begins. Danial’s craftsmanship is all about precision. Every piece is cut and stitched, with no shortcuts. The edges of each item are carefully polished and waxed, which is a detail often overlooked by other makers.
“Many people skip this step,” he says. “But for me, it’s a non-negotiable. It doesn’t just make the piece look better; it makes it more durable. Polished edges are less likely to fray or wear down over time.”
Creating a Legacy Through Custom Pieces
Creating custom leather goods isn’t just about delivering a product, it’s about crafting something that will stand the test of time. "When it comes to custom work, my vision is for each item to be worn, cherished, and eventually handed down. I take pride in knowing the work I do today will be part of someone’s story for years to come," he shares.
When clients invest in a piece from Victorymade Goods, they’re investing in a product that has been carefully crafted to reflect their preferences. “I approach every custom project as if I were making it for a family member. That’s the reason why I spend time on subtle details others might overlook.”
Receiving feedback is one of the most rewarding parts of the custom gift-making journey. Hearing clients' reactions, whether through heartfelt messages or videos, deeply affirms the time, care, and creativity Danial pours into each piece.
Selecting the Right Maker
When choosing the right maker for a custom leather gift, consider a few key factors to ensure you’re selecting someone who aligns with your vision and budget.
Research and Specialty
Each leather artisan has unique skills and specialties, so research makers who focus on the type of item you have in mind. For example, if you’re interested in a custom wallet, choose a leatherworker experienced in small goods. Ensuring the artisan’s expertise matches your requirements will ensure the best results for your gift.
Budget Considerations
Custom leather items vary widely in cost depending on the level of customization, materials, and the artisan’s experience. Establishing a clear budget upfront will help you narrow down options and communicate your financial boundaries with the artisan.
Customization
While customization is a significant advantage of working with a skilled artisan, remember that it also comes with design constraints. A reputable maker will provide recommendations on how to maintain the aesthetic and durability of the piece. They may advise against overly detailed personalization on small items or suggest modifications that balance design with practicality.
Location
While working locally may offer a more hands-on approach, remote artisans can still provide high-quality results if communication is clear. The primary focus should be on finding someone who can bring your vision to life, regardless of location.
At Victorymade Goods, we’re dedicated to creating something truly meaningful.
Have a custom idea in mind? Fill out the custom form today, and we’ll make it a reality!