• 465 words • Miniviews

I'm a Maker Because...with Parker Lichfield

Parker Lichfield, Stock & Barrel - Maker Miniviews series. These interviews are quick and to-the-point, check it out.

By Scott Mathson, Makerviews
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Miniviews series - No. 27 with Parker Lichfield

You’ve landed on the twenty-seventh installment of the Maker Miniviews (mini, two question interviews) series. Learn more about these maker interviews and view a list of all Miniviews.

Parker (and Whitney) Lichfield own and operate leather goods business Stock & Barrel - a family-run company that they started back in 2012. They’re making leather goods, videos, and other content out of their workshop in Ogden, Utah.

Check out this interview with Parker Lichfield of Stock & Barrel.

I'm a Maker Because...

Parker Lichfield interview

What inspires you to keep making things?

"Every day I get to work with leather and spend quality time with my wife and kids. It doesn't get any better than that. At the risk of sounding too cliche and broad, the deeply rooted reason I do anything is for my family. My #1 goal is to be able to provide for them, and anything after that is just for fun.

Once I realized the potential of being able to provide for my family AND do something I love, I hit the workbench hard and have been feeling that energy ever since.

I love working for myself and having the flexibility to be with my family. That's really what keeps me on this path."

What one piece of advice would you give to other makers?

"I think one of the most difficult things, yet wildly important, is being original. Your work is your mark on the world, and there is nothing special about being a copy.

There have always been a lot of makers in the world but right now there are a lot of makers that are trying to make it as a business. Which is why it's so crucial to create something that people can only get by coming to YOU.

You have to stand out."

Parker is a family man and as he’s noted in this interview, his family is his main inspiration.

"Your work is your mark on the world, and there is nothing special about being a copy..." — Parker Lichfield

Beyond designing, creating, and selling their handmade leather goods, both Parker and Whitney are active video content creators. They have a Maker Family vlogging channel, personal, and leather goods/DIY tutorials YouTube channels. They’re one busy duo!

Check out the Stock & Barrel website, Instagram profile, and leather working YouTube channel.

Thank you all for reading this article, now get out there and make things!

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