About us

History of Terken Custom Leather:

As a hobby, I began the art of leatherwork in 1995. Self taught utilizing Al & Ann Stohlman's many instruction manuals, I starting making simple projects for myself and my family. I soon realized that I was a natural at it, so I attempted more difficult and challenging projects. Pleased with my results, my customer base quickly expanded to friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Pressured by their praise, I yearned to learn more. In 1998, I tutored under internationally known Saddle Maker and Leather Artist, Bill Gomer (maker of the Kansas Birthday Saddle and 1986 recipient of the Al Stohlman Award for Achievement in Leather Craft). At his saddle making school in Kansas, I made two beautiful saddles. One, the fully carved western riding saddle (pictured below), and the other an old-style "high back" with drop-point skirts. Having refined my Western Floral and Figure Carving skills under Bill's instruction, I felt I was ready to tackle any Leathercraft task. Thus, Terken Custom Leather was founded in 1999, and the fun began. Still done as a hobby, most of my work is now self-designed. However, I do incorporate ideas and techniques from well known Leather Artist such as Robert Beard, Robb Barr, Al & Ann Stohlman, F.O. Baird, Bob Brown, and Bill Gomer, just to name a few. Currently, I have designed and handcrafted hundreds of custom leather projects for satisfied customers. I am proud to say that not one of my exquisitely handcrafted leather items has been returned for any reason. My products are built to last, and the quality shows!

"The beauty of my craftsmanship speaks for itself!"

Terry Smith

Leather Craftsman & Artist

Motorcycle Enthusiast

Terken Custom Leather

Quality That Shows...Made to Last!!