Hi, I'm Eric. If you’ve been following my journey here at The Kilted Leatherworker, you know that I have a bit of an obsession with "honest materials." There’s just something about the smell of a fresh hide and the weight of a solid brass buckle that makes the long hours in the workshop feel like a reward rather than a chore.
Today, I wanted to take you behind the bench to talk about one of my favorite projects: the Copper Buffalo Suede pouch. You might know it better as The Highland Nomad. This piece isn’t just an accessory; it’s a tribute to the materials that have survived centuries of rugged use. Whether I’m cracking open a cold root beer after a long day of stitching or hand-shaping a piece of elk antler for a button, these are the moments that define what I do.
Why Buffalo Suede? More Than Just a Pretty Texture
As you may have guessed, not all leathers are created equal. When people think of buffalo hide, they usually think of heavy, thick, full-grain leather: the kind of stuff you’d use for a saddle or a heavy-duty belt. And while I love full-grain buffalo for its sheer strength, there is something truly special about buffalo suede.
Buffalo suede is made from the flesh side of the hide. Now, little did I know when I first started out that the "nap" (that soft, fuzzy texture) of buffalo would be so much more durable than cow suede. Because buffalo hides have a naturally thick and robust fiber structure, the suede remains incredibly tough even without the outer grain layer. It’s softer and more flexible than full-grain, but it won’t give up on you when you’re out on an adventure.
I chose a rich copper tone for this specific Highland Nomad because of the way it catches the light. It has a rustic, Western vibe that feels right at home at a Renaissance faire or out on a hiking trail. Plus, buffalo leather is naturally water-resistant, making it a reliable companion for whatever the weather throws at you.
The Soul of the Pouch: The Elk Antler Button
A pouch is only as good as its closure. While I use brass hardware for many of my designs, like The Wayfarer’s Tote, the Highland Nomad demanded something more organic. That’s where the elk antler comes in.
Every elk antler button I use is hand-sourced and hand-shaped right here in my workshop. I love the process of taking a raw piece of antler: something that was once part of a living, breathing animal in the wild: and turning it into a functional piece of art.
Sourcing and Shaping the Antler
The process starts with finding the right section of the antler. I look for the tines (the branches) because they are dense and have the perfect diameter for a sturdy button. Once I’ve selected a piece, the real work begins:
- Cutting the Blanks: I use a fine-tooth saw to slice the antler into rounds, usually about 5mm to 7mm thick. I like to keep them slightly thicker than a standard button to ensure they can handle the tension of a leather loop.
- Flattening and Sanding: Using a file and progressively finer sandpaper (from 120 up to 600 grit), I smooth out the back so it sits flush against the leather flap. I leave the natural "bark" on the front to preserve that rugged, textured look.
- Drilling the Holes: This is the part that requires a steady hand. I drill two small holes for the leather lace to pass through. If you’ve ever smelled antler being drilled, you know it’s... unique. (Pro tip: always wear a mask!)
- The Final Polish: I finish the button with a bit of natural wax to give it a subtle sheen and protect it from the elements.
There is a tactile satisfaction in sliding an antler button through a leather loop. It’s quiet, it’s secure, and it feels like history in your hands.
The Highland Nomad: Built for Adventure
When I designed The Highland Nomad, I wanted to bridge the gap between a traditional Scottish sporran and a modern belt pouch. I often think about my customers: people who value craftsmanship and need something that works as hard as they do.
The pouch is designed to fit belts up to 2.75 inches wide. I personally enjoy wearing mine when I’m out exploring or even just working around the shop. It’s the perfect size for your essentials: a minimalist wallet, your keys, and maybe a small field notebook like The Chronicler’s Cover.
What I love most is how the copper buffalo suede ages. Over time, it will develop a "patina": not the shiny kind you see on smooth leather, but a rich, weathered character that tells the story of everywhere you’ve been. It softens, it darkens slightly in high-wear areas, and it truly becomes yours.
Honest Materials and the "One Step at a Time" Philosophy
I’m often asked why I don’t just use pre-made plastic buttons or thinner, cheaper leathers. The answer is simple: I wouldn’t want to carry that, so why would I ask you to?
Every stitch in the Highland Nomad is done by hand, ensuring that every seam is as strong as it can possibly be. This is the essence of "honest materials." It’s about using real hide, real antler, and real brass to create something that doesn’t just last a season, but a lifetime.
There is a certain peace that comes with working one step at a time. In a world that moves so fast, taking the time to hand-stitch a buffalo suede pouch reminds me to slow down. I hope that when you wear one of my pieces, you feel that same sense of connection to the craft.
Caring for Your Copper Buffalo Pouch
Because this pouch is made of suede, it does require a tiny bit of extra love compared to my full-grain items like The Wayfarer’s Tote. Here are a few tips to keep it looking great:
- Brush It: Use a soft-bristled brush occasionally to keep the nap looking fresh and to remove any dust.
- Avoid Soaking: While it’s naturally water-resistant, you don’t want to submerge it. If it gets wet, let it air dry naturally: away from direct heat.
- The Antler: Your elk antler button is incredibly tough. You can occasionally rub a tiny bit of mineral oil on it to keep it from getting brittle over many years, but mostly, it just likes to be used.
Final Thoughts
I want to thank you for taking the time to read about my process. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or you just happened to find your way to my corner of the internet today, I appreciate you. Creating these pieces is my passion, and knowing they are out there in the world, accompanying you on your adventures, is the best part of my job.
If you have questions about the Highland Nomad or want to talk about a custom order, feel free to reach out. I’m usually at the bench, but I always make time to chat with folks who appreciate the craft.
Stay adventurous,