About LJ Leatherwork Founder
Lucy Jones the founder of LJ Leatherwork, follows on in the footsteps of her Grandfather John Pegg of Drew and Sons Piccadilly, London and as such is now one of the few leatherworkers remaining that still employs the traditions of hand crafting leather, traditions that once made the UK world renowned in leather products.
Drew and Sons was formed circa 1914 and was known for bags, cases, trunks and other leather goods and was world renowned and still to this day Drew and Son products command a princely sum at auction. The inspiring heritage of family inspired Lucy to keep the tradition alive. LJ Leatherwork brings traditional leather crafts to modern products, ideas and designs whilst maintaining the quality and exclusivity of her family trade.
A keen rider and equestrian lover of over 40 years, Lucy has now retired from the equestrian world to focus purely on LJ Leatherwork. Her appreciation of excellent leatherwork in saddles and bridles is mainly appreciated by those in the British Country Sports and equestrian community. The quality resonates with those that shoot, hunt, ride and fish but also by golfers and the outdoor community at large.
Why buy a LJ Leatherwork product?
Made in the south west of England on the edge of the Somerset Levels and being surrounded by such countryside, coastal plain and wetlands have helped inspire an iconic collection of designs and color palates.
As traditional leatherworkers, we use the traditional methods of preparing and creating leatherwear. The use of only oil based dyes, penetrates the leather deeply, softening in appearance as worn, unlike acrylic and water-based dyes which are uniformed in appearance not leather friendly.
All hides are inspected and handpicked in a careful selection process ensuring only the best quality hydes are used. We work carefully when selecting our hydes as many contain natural variations. Our chosen hides may include stretch marks, natural blemishes and scars all of which adds the character and texture of each product.
All our hydes are Vegetable tanned and can take anything from three months to a year in preparation. The hide is soaked in a solution of tree bark, oak, pine or larch and produces not only the much sought after smell of leather but also flexibility and those lingering colour changes in time and use. We also believe that we should only hand stitch to ensure ultimate quality and control.