40 under 40: Meet Amy Baldwin

Every Monday, we are celebrating one of our 40 under 40 makers.

This week,  we are getting to know Amy Baldwin a saddle fitter and leather worker who loves to make dog accessories too. Let's get to know her in our Q&A.

Tell us a bit about what you do?

I have my own saddle fitting/leather work business

How did you get into making leather goods? /What or maybe who inspired you to start making?

Owing horses growing up, then moved to London to attend Capel Manor college for 2 years, followed by an apprenticeship with saddlers Den.
Just grew up being very creative and loved horses

What is your favourite product to make/favourite commission piece?

Dog accessories

What do you love most about working with leather?

The quality finish you can get on each product. It can be so forgiving in ways

What are your next goals/ Have you got any exciting new projects lined up?

I'm just about to launch a Biothane dog collar range.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a leather worker or who has just started out?

Patience to develop your skills and reputation, be creative and most importantly enjoy it.

What does it mean to you to be included on the 40 under 40 list?

It's a massive honour to be recognised.

How important do you think it is to keep traditional techniques alive in the modern world?

You can't beat the traditional way. It's massively important, and teaching people the beauty of it is so important.

What have you done to keep relevant in a digital age?

Social media is massively important, show videos of you making a product, getting the best picture to show the product off and reviews

What is the biggest challenge to becoming successful in your discipline?

Financial, having the money to invest to grow the business and buy the supplies. It is a massive outlay for supplies.

To join this network of great makers, please follow Amy's Instagram page HERE