40 under 40: Meet Emma Vernon

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

This week, we are getting to know Emma Vernon a Leather worker with a love for making bespoke items. Let's get to know here in out Q&A. 

Tell us a bit about what you do?

I trade as Cheshire Saddler.I repair leather goods and make bespoke leather items. I am based just inside the Peak District National Park on the Cheshire/Derbyshire border.

How did you get into making leather goods?

After completing an equine management course I wanted to combine my love of horses and dogs and make a career. My grandfather was a cobbler and my mum suggested working with leather. I explored the options and completed several short courses with David May of Cumbrian Saddlery.

What is your favorite product to make?

Repairing a knee roll to a panel because it dramatically improves the appearance of the saddle and I also enjoy making a head collars as an English leather, well fitting head collar enhances the appearance of the horse/pony.

What do you love most about working with leather?

I love the smell and feel of the leather. I feel satisfied turning a piece of plain  leather into something useful, traditionally made and that will last a lifetime. I also enjoy restoring dry battered leather. Cleaning and nourishing no make it almost like new again.

What are your next goals?

I would like to become a saddle fitter but it is difficult finding someone locally to train me. For now I am going to focus on building my business after a difficult few years following covid and the death of my father.

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

Research what you want to do. No matter how many times you are told you can’t do something if you really want to do it keep going, you will get there.

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

I am so proud to have been nominated and chosen. It was a privilege to attend the master class and has given me the inspiration to continue and grow my business.

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

It is very important to keep the traditional skills alive. They are often better than modern mass produced items and last much longer.

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

Social media plays a large part in my business. Website, Facebook and Instagram. I still encourage clients, where possible to come to my workshop to see the traditional way I work. I also attend local events to keep my profile raised. I do have many customers that post items to me for repair or place orders for bespoke items. I keep in contact with them at various parts of the process/production via messenger, email etc.

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

Covid was the biggest challenge. Now rising prices are challenging while still giving value for money. Finding people willing to teach the traditional technics is also difficult so I have to Google some things and practice myself to obtain the best standards.

For more information, please visit www.cheshiresaddler.com

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