{The stunning images of Kara and her workshop were taken by Kari K of Kari K Design this week.}

Kara Ginther is a leather artisan based in Columbus, Wisconsin — and a UW-Madison Textile Design alumna — known for her intricately hand-carved leather creations. In addition to winning the heart of Brooks and cyclists all over with her beautiful custom bike saddles, Kara’s leather artistry has adorned many commissioned works including furniture, bags, shoes, and accessories, such as a line of belts she made previously for Anthropologie.

As a craftswoman and owner at KG Leather, Kara has worked both with individual clients as well as larger companies, and she’s learned a thing or two about herself and the way she likes to do business in the process. I approached her to hear more about her journey working with leather and to pick her brain on the subject of creative entrepreneurship.

{Mr. Sloth and Scarab Beetle: just a couple of old pals basking in the lime light}

Why is leather your chosen material?

I have always loved the aesthetic of leather, but it wasn’t until I started working with it that I discovered its incredible versatility. I can draw on it, mold it, stitch it, paint it, dye it, stamp it, emboss it, and carve it. It looks gorgeous old and new, worn and unused. It’s perfect for me; it allows so much freedom yet provides the necessary boundaries that keep me from becoming overwhelmed.

How did you get started carving leather? Is the process difficult?

I discovered leather carving by accident when I absent-mindedly started scratching at some leather with a lino tool meant for relief printmaking. I find the actual carving to be easy, although it takes a lot of concentration and control. It’s the variability of each leather piece that I find challenging. What worked for one project can potentially ruin another. I have learned to start slow, do a lot of tests, and master troubleshooting techniques for problems that pop up mid-project. [Learn more about her process here.]

What challenges and joys do you face as a craftsperson and small business owner?

I have never been satisfied by taking the easy route, and this is probably the biggest challenge and the biggest joy in being my own boss. I am constantly on the lookout for new ways of doing things, not just new to me but new to the world. I can’t help but feel the urge to be revolutionary. What this means is still beyond me, but I believe strongly that we need to make changes in everything from our currency systems to what it means to be creative. I often reminding myself to focus on what is in front of me so that I don’t become lost in big picture ideas.

Practically, I also find working in mass production and with big companies to be a challenge. At the moment, my greatest joy is found working one-on-one with clients, hearing their stories and forming relationships that benefit on both ends.

Advice for designers and creative people:

It is common for creative people, textile designers or otherwise, to have a plan and then latch onto it with all their might. Whether short or long-term — this can be exhausting — and a lot of good potential gets lost in burnout and overwhelm. In no way am I saying that one shouldn’t have goals and aspirations. However, it is important to remember that you are changing every day. Doesn’t it make sense that your work and therefore your plans will change too?

• Remain fluid and flexible.
• Be aware of decisions you are making. Are they based on the “right” or “smart” way of doing something, rather than what you feel intuitively? Do what makes you most excited, not what you feel obligated to do.
• Know when your work isn’t bringing you joy anymore, and gracefully makes changes to correct this.

[Kara took a little break from leather carving this summer to work on her boyfriend's farm. The sunshine and exercise was exactly what she needed, and now she's ready to take on the world with a lot of fresh ideas.]

Thanks for sharing and inspiring us, Kara!

Here are a couple more of Kara’s carved creations that I’ve taken fondly to as of late. In addition to Scarab Beetle featured previously, Armadillo and Sting Ray (modeled by Shelby Copeland above) are ready to wear pieces. Even if you’re critter-shy, you won’t find it difficult welcoming these adorable pendants over to join your wardrobe. They have been cut, carved, molded, stitched and stained completely by hand. Look for them in Kara’s Etsy Shop.

Visit Kara Ginther at www.karaginther.com for all your leather carving needs.

Photo Credit: Kari K Design {Kara + Workshop}, Stephanie Carnes {Bosom + Sting Ray}, Kara Ginther {Final two product shots}

Brooks saddles, Kara Ginther, Kari K Design, leather, leather carving, Wisconsin Craft, Designers + Artists, Interviews, Jewelry + Accessories, USA Made