News Summary
Following the challenges of Hurricane Helene, local leatherworkers in Asheville, including artisans like Stefan Daiberl and the Tetraults, are revitalizing their craft. They are committed to creating high-quality, handcrafted leather goods while promoting sustainable practices. Their efforts contribute significantly to the local economy and reinforce the rich history of leather working in the region, showcasing resilience and innovation in the face of adversity.
Asheville, N.C. – Local leatherworkers are making a significant comeback in Asheville following the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene, with artisans revitalizing their craft and contributing to the community’s economic landscape. Among them, leatherworker Stefan Daiberl is paving the way through his small family business, Hirondine, located in the Resurrection Studio Collective.
Daiberl, whose craftsmanship passion ignited in the years following World War II, experienced a setback when Hurricane Helene forced him to lose his studio space. Despite this, he remains committed to handcrafting a variety of leather goods, including wallets, bags, keychains, and journals. His distinctive work employs old-world materials and traditional tools, ensuring that his products exhibit timelessness and durability, echoing a relationship between the craftsman and the customer.
In line with Asheville’s eco-friendly values, Daiberl also advocates for sustainable harvesting techniques in his craft. His commitment is evident in the quality and longevity of the items he produces, designed to age beautifully over time. He expresses gratitude for the Asheville community that supports local artisans and values handcrafted goods.
Alongside Daiberl, Spencer Tetrault is another local leatherworker making headlines. After his tenure as a firefighter, Tetrault transitioned into leather crafting, motivated by requests from colleagues at the fire department. He, along with his wife, Courtney Tetrault, established Axe & Awl Leatherworks in Waynesville, marking a significant shift from their previous careers. The Tetraults focused on creating custom leather goods, primarily designed for firefighters, including vital accessories like radio straps and helmet bands, which have become popular products in their line.
Being actively involved in the community, the Tetraults showcased their products at fire expos and trade shows to enhance their business reach. In October 2021, they opened a storefront in downtown Waynesville, reflecting the area’s rich leatherworking history, notably shaped by the now-defunct A.C. Lawrence Leather Company, which operated in Haywood County from the late 1800s until 1986. The history of the region speaks volumes about the craft’s familial roots that continue to resonate through families like the Tetraults and Daiberls.
Axe & Awl Leatherworks offers a diverse range of handcrafted items, from wallets to duffle bags and toiletry bags, showcasing their dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Courtney Tetrault’s move from healthcare to become the first full-time employee of the business reflects the growing popularity of leatherwork as a viable career option in Asheville.
These local leatherworkers are not only rebuilding their businesses after natural adversity but also reinforcing the cultural and historical significance of leather crafting in the region. As they continue to innovate and connect with their community, the resurgence of craftsmanship in Asheville symbolizes both resilience and the enduring value of handmade goods.
The ongoing effort of artisans like Daiberl and the Tetraults to uphold traditional leatherworking methods while meeting modern demands speaks to the heart of Asheville’s artisan community. With local support thriving, their crafts not only provide tangible products but also foster a communal appreciation for creativity, heritage, and sustainability.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Leatherworkers Revival in Asheville
- Wikipedia: Leathercraft
- WLOS: Leatherworkers Gallery
- Google Search: Asheville leatherworkers
- WNC Magazine: Awl Feature
- Britannica: Leathercraft
