"One word - Pursuit! As a maker, I am always trying to improve and refine my craft and to constantly learn new skills. I started Cavalier Goods Co. as a hobby, just like many other makers. During the day I work in a digital agency where I constantly get to challenge my mind, but I’ve always felt that urge within me to create with my hands.

When I started leatherwork, there was absolutely no intention to ever start a business, but it quickly became an obsession. I would spend hours and hours thinking of all the things I could make if I just put the time and effort into it. Starting with a raw hide and creating something that is functional, beautiful and has the ability to last for generations (if taken care of properly) is incredibly satisfying. Leatherworking is a craft with a lot of intricacies and a lot of opportunities to grow as a maker.

The simple fact that there is so much to learn to create better products that people enjoy is the single biggest inspiration for me to keep making things."

"To love making something to the absolute fullest, you have to be willing to sacrifice and to put everything you have in it. I truly believe in the idea of perseverance, because nothing ever comes easy. I often had moments where I felt defeated and thought to myself ‘I am never going to get this right’ or ‘I am never going to master that skill’. But it’s in those times that you have to distance yourself for a while, pick yourself back up and instead of giving in to that voice that wants you to fail, simply try again.

It’s probably one of the most satisfying feelings to overcome that struggle and come out stronger and more determined than before. Whenever I encounter situations like this, I think to myself that the more it hurts, the more opportunity for growth and learning I have. And before you know it, you finally achieved to overcome what you were stressing over so much before."