I am back with another episode of The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety Podcast. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Dani, the creative force behind DD Practical Leathercraft. If you’ve ever been curious about the art of leatherworking or how to turn a side hustle into a full-time gig, this episode is a must-watch! Dani’s story is as inspiring as it is practical, filled with valuable insights that’ll have you hooked from the get-go.
In this blog post, I’ll give you a sneak peek into my conversation with Dani. You’ll get a glimpse of her journey from theatre work to full-time leathercraft, the challenges she faces in running her business, and the passion that fuels her creativity. By the end of this post, you’ll be eager to dive into the full episode and discover the magic behind DD Practical Leathercraft.
Dani’s Leatherworking Journey:
Dani’s path to becoming a leatherworker is anything but conventional. When the pandemic put a halt to her theatre work, she found herself needing a new creative outlet. What started as a side hustle quickly evolved into her full-time gig, and DD Practical Leathercraft was born. Dani’s story is a testament to how life’s unexpected twists can lead us to our true passions.
From Theatre to Leathercraft:
One of the turning points in Dani’s journey was participating in the TV show Make it at Market. This experience helped her transition from the world of theatre to focusing more on her leathercraft business. It wasn’t just a career shift; it was a new chapter in her creative life. And let me tell you, her passion for leathercraft shines through in everything she does.
Connecting with Customers at Festivals:
Dani’s business thrives at in-person events like festivals—especially VW van life and glamping festivals, where her leather goods are a perfect fit. There’s something special about being able to see and feel her products in person. Dani’s commitment to quality is evident in every piece she creates, and festivals give her the chance to connect with customers on a personal level.
The Art of Leathercraft:
Dani works exclusively with leather—no linings, no hidden materials. She believes that quality leather doesn’t need to be covered up, and that philosophy is at the heart of her craft. Whether she’s working with new leather or repurposing scraps and donations, Dani ensures that nothing goes to waste. Every product she makes is a reflection of her dedication to sustainability and craftsmanship.
Handmade with Heart:
One of the most fascinating aspects of Dani’s work is that everything is handmade—no sewing machines involved. She often creates items on-site at festivals, giving customers a front-row seat to her craft. It’s this hands-on approach that sets her apart and makes her products truly one-of-a-kind.
Challenges of Running a Small Business:
Of course, running a small business isn’t without its challenges. Dani juggles multiple roles, especially during the busy festival seasons. Time management can be tough, but her passion for leathercraft keeps her going, even during difficult times. Whether it’s dealing with negative feedback or navigating financial hurdles, Dani’s resilience is truly inspiring.
Advice for Aspiring Makers:
For those just starting out, Dani has some invaluable advice. She emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community—your tribe, if you will. Knowing your ideal customers is key to succeeding at events and markets. And one of the biggest lessons she’s learned? Proper pricing. It’s essential not only for reflecting the value of handmade work but also for maintaining fairness within the small business community.
Final Thoughts:
Dani’s journey from theatre to leathercraft is a powerful reminder that sometimes, our greatest passions find us when we least expect them. Her dedication to her craft, commitment to sustainability, and ability to connect with her customers make her story one worth hearing.
If you’re ready to be inspired, learn a few leathercraft secrets, and maybe even get motivated to start or grow your own creative business, this episode is for you! Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and hit play on the latest episode of The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety Podcast with Dani from DD Practical Leathercraft.
I hope you enjoy the episode as much as I enjoyed recording it! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget—your support can make a significant difference in our progress and up coming episodes.!
Sew until next time happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full.
Deb x
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