My Story
Built by Hand. Backed by Pride.
Named as a permanent tribute to my late Rottweiler, Roxanne — built on passion, patience, and a belief that things should be made to last.
Where It Started
Big Dog Leather was born out of a passion for authentic handcraftsmanship and a dedication to timeless quality. Named as a permanent tribute to my late Rottweiler, Roxanne, the shop reflects the strength, loyalty, and presence she brought to my life.
Leatherworking started as a hobby for me years ago. When I retired, I needed a way to keep both my mind and my hands busy, so I broke out my old tools and supplies and got back to work. I'm completely self-taught — learning through years of trial, practice, and continuous refinement.
What started as a hobby turned into a craft, and that craft turned into Big Dog Leather. Today, I work with some of the finest traditional leathers, exotic hides, and hand tools available, treating every single creation as the unique, one-of-a-kind piece it is meant to be. My circle of followers may be small, but they are faithful because they know what goes into my work.
Every piece I make is cut, stitched, and finished entirely by hand — no sewing machines and no electric shortcuts. I run a small, single-maker operation right here in Midlothian, Texas, working out of a dedicated workbench setup. I like keeping things personal and direct; whether an item is shipped out or picked up locally, you are dealing directly with the maker who built it.
What I Stand For
Made Entirely by Hand
Every cut, every stitch, and every burnished edge is done using traditional hand tools and time-honored techniques. That isn't marketing talk — that is simply how I work.
Honest, Fair Pricing
The price of my work is based strictly on two things: the cost of the materials and how well the finished piece turned out. I never factor in my time. I am retired; this is my time, and this is exactly how I choose to spend it.
Built to Last & Age Well
I select quality leathers — from vegetable-tanned hides to exotics — choosing and splitting materials so the weight, strength, and function fit the design perfectly. I make gear meant to outlast trends and get better with every year of use.
Backed by Me
If something isn't right with a piece you purchase, I will make it right. No runaround, no fine print.
Ready to Own Something Built to Last?
Browse the collection or reach out for a custom order.