We'd like to introduce local creator and long-time friend of the shop Tyson, the face behind Landmark Leather. Whether he's teaching a leatherworking class in the shop or he's our booth neighbor at a local market, he's always great company, and his creations speak for themselves.

Tyson was always interested in picking up woodworking, but that's the type of craft that requires a little bit more space. He needed a creative outlet that could fit in to a small space, and when he was gifted a basic leatherworking kit, it seemed like the perfect fit.

He got started teaching himself by watching Youtube videos and following along with tutorials. Instead of a grand woodshop it was a small bar and a set of tools that got packed away each night, but he was still working with a material that can last for a lifetime. As his passion for leatherworking grew and he began to tackle more projects, from wallets to journals to keychains, his workspace began to consume more of his bedroom.

He's evolved from handstitching each piece to having a sewing machine that can help his process, and a whole room devoted to his workshop rather than packing up each night. What started as a hobby has grown into a side job that may take a lot of free time, but also creates some beautiful things.

And, of course, he doesn't spend all his time creating. Like many of us in Reno, Tyson is an avid lover of the outdoors. Winter and the ski slopes aren't for him, but when he's not crafting in the summer seasons, he's out backpacking and exploring the mountains around us. Next time you see him at a market, ask him if he's been anywhere cool lately!