In Part 2 of our maker Q&A, Shane Bowman (Bow the Maker) is back with Matt to tackle more of your leathercraft questions. This episode is all about tools, technique, and getting real about the ups and downs of making. Whether you're a beginner wondering how to design your first pattern or an experienced maker debating hand stitching vs. machine work, there's something here for you.

What We Cover in This Episode:

Why Vinymo is Shane's go-to thread—and what other budget-friendly options are out there

The truth about thread sizing, sheen, and durability

Pattern-making 101: the analog method Shane recommends for beginners

The best ways to work through a creative block

Tools that are truly worth your money (parallel pliers, anyone?)

A real talk breakdown on hand-stitching vs. machine-stitching

Why community support is essential—and where to find it

Free Digital 3D Printing Jig Pattern

Want to try fixing your Sinabroks French Style Pricking Irons? Now you can, below are multiple ways for you get get a jig to print yourself or buy one that can be made and mailed to you.

Purchase premade from Leather Shop Website

Makers World Download- (For Bambu Labs Printers.)

Download the file from Printables

Digital File from Leather Shop Website

Connect with Us:

Website: leathershoppod.com

Instagram & TikTok: @leathershoppod

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🛠️ Hosted by Matt Roach | Guest: Shane Bowman (@bowthemaker) Website

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)

Support us on Patreon

In this episode of Leather Shop, we sit down with Sarah Roe, founder and artisan behind Stitch & Roe, a brand dedicated to transforming vintage baseball mitts into bespoke leather goods. Sarah shares her journey of upcycling cherished mitts into wallets, keychains, and more, preserving the memories embedded in each piece. We explore the meticulous craftsmanship involved, the sentimental value of repurposing family heirlooms, and the challenges of working with diverse leather qualities. Whether you’re a leathercraft enthusiast or someone who treasures family history, this episode offers a heartfelt look into creating timeless pieces that carry personal stories forward.

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This episode is sponsored by Bow the Maker