EHAL Magazine February 2017

40 / 44

Everything Horses and Livestock Magazine
©Everything Horses and Livestock | February 2017 |
Randy began to explain the process of wetting the
leather, molding, carving, painting. Hard work and
countless hours goes into each piece. I love looking
at all the cre-
ations that this
top craftsman
can do.
I ask Randy,
“when did you
realize you had
a passion for
working with
leather.” Ran-
dy explained
“When I was
in elementary
school, I asked
for a Tandy
leather working
kit for Christ-
mas. I began with that set, and a great art teacher.”
His passion grew each year as he studied different
leather work techniques.
Through the years, Randy and his son Riley have
spent hours together in the leather shop. Riley
seams to have a “natural” knack for leather work.
In no time at all, his pieces like his fathers, were
winning awards too in the International Federation
of Leather Guilds shows. There are three different
levels of show competition; open, advanced and
master. This is the only organization in the world that
can issue a certification to a leather worker on his or
her skill level.
Their passion and winnings were first featured in a
2005 article written by Bob Harrington for the Miami
County Republic. Since then several publications
have focused on Cornelius Saddlery’s continued
talent with various leather work.
Saddle restoration is another service that Randy
offers. He loves the history behind each saddle he
works on. This is an old Hamley saddle, it came in for
some minor repairs. Randy knew it was old and de-
cided to call Hamley’s as they were still in business.
Randy was able to get the date the saddle was or-
dered, 1938, who ordered it, who the saddle maker
was that made it and the delivery date. The customer
was really happy to find out this information.
He really enjoys the custom work. Creating his
customers visions of belts, chaps, chinks, holsters,
lamps, shaving kits, and the likes, these special
projects keeps his creativity flowing and challenges
his skills.
Randy and his wonderful wife Debbie are enjoying
their trips together. Whether on horseback or motor-
cycle, they love spending their time adventuring new
places.
Life is a Journey, Enjoy The Ride..~Jana Barcus
Continued from Page 4
40