Leather working in Columbus, Ohio

Co-owner and resident leather artist, Pam ODea, thrives in creating ultra-functional leather goods that last a lifetime.

“I began sewing in 1999. My school had a ‘technology’ class that had everything from robotics to woodshop. One of the stations had a sewing machine with adorable handmade pillows hung on the wall above it. By the time I finished my first pillow, I was hooked. My passion went from home decor, to intricate tiered aprons, and up to multi-functional purses and backpacks. Naturally, I wanted the bags that I worked so hard on to last as long as possible. I researched different materials like vinyl and canvas. I found mushroom and pineapple leather and was discouraged to find that I didn’t have a large enough business to order it. So, I bought some leather. Leather is ridiculously strong and can handle a lifetime of wear and tear. Leather boots are resoled many times over before the leather needs patching. Leather patinas and ages, stretches and rests, it holds memories of everyday adventures.”

Leather is the best buy-it-for-life option. In our humble opinion.

“BUT BEWARE OF GENUINE LEATHER” Pam warns. “It is the lowest quality leather product you can buy.” Genuine leather is indeed leather. “Genuine” is the type of leather. Full-grain, top-grain, suede, and genuine are the most common types of leather you may see. Genuine leather can be made from the worst quality, it can be glued, heavily sanded, refinished and even painted to create a uniform appearance. “A genuine leather bag or chair will not last anywhere near as long as a full grain, top grain, or suede product.” Pam says. “If you are spending your money on a leather piece, don’t be fooled by genuine leather. Make sure you are getting the best.”

What is Pam creating these days?

Purses, backpacks, sling chairs, duffel/briefcases. “I have had several leather refinishing or replacement jobs recently and I have really enjoyed working on them.” She admits. “I replaced the leather on a butterfly chair and enjoyed it so much that I turned it into a class at Good Dea Craft School.”

The butterfly stool in caramel full-grain leather

Favorite item to make? It’s a toss.

“As far as a full leather item, it’s the duffel. I can customize it with pockets, zippers, flaps, unique details, colorful stitching… and the leather, it can be any type of leather a client wants, any color, suede lined… the possibilities are endless. That’s why it’s custom order only. I, personally, cannot decide.” She laughs.

Pam sits in the Good Dea Craft School class space with one of her duffel bags. The chandelier above her was designed by Pam and Kara (sister-in law and co-owner of Good Dea Craft School). It has over 30 lights and hangs over with the large worktables with a pink champagne bohemian glow.

And the other?

“My backpack. It converts from backpack to shoulder bag, the straps can cross in the front if you are a bike rider, and it’s got SO many pockets.” 8 to be exact. “It’s got bottle pockets, phone pockets, book pockets, snack pockets, and a strap to go over your roller luggage handle. I customize AT LEAST one portion of this bag each time I make it.” Pam admits.

“I live for custom orders. It’s more fun for me that way.” She says. “I have so many ideas streaming from my mind at any given time and being able to focus on a person, a need, a personality… it gives me a purpose.”

Any new projects in the works?

“Shoes! I wanted to find a smaller leather item that is not a wallet.” She sighs “I am just, not a big wallet maker. I know plenty of artists that do fabulous wallet work, it’s not my thing. I like finding a gap in the market and filling it with quality item’s that I can offer at a reasonable price.”

Leather at a reasonable price? Isn’t leather inherently expensive?

“Sure, the materials cost a bit more but, if you make good use of every bit of leather you have, and have fantastic sources like mine, you find that a leather item doesn’t need to cost hundreds of dollars to be of good quality.” Pam continues “A large, handstitched, fully customized leather duffel is an investment. Most clients spend between $700-$1200 on those. Shoes use far less material and use smaller cuts that aren’t large enough for bags. You can get shoes that match your bag, even!” Pam’s eyes light up. “It’s awesome.”

Her leather shoes run from $75-$150.

If you are in need of leather goods, a new purse, a repair or replacement, you can find her at Good Dea Craft School off High Street in Clintonville Columbus, Ohio.