Our Story
Back in 1994 we started working with leather as a hobby. Like many hobbyists, we began to make items for sale at our local craft fairs, etc. During this time we used numerous suppliers often paying way too much and not getting the best selection. We were always on the look out for new sources and of course lower prices.
In 1996 were approached at one of our events by a leather dealer who was not only looking for new retail customers but for someone who would offer his hides directly to the retail market. After reaching an agreement we started offering leather directly to the public. We soon found out that there was a good demand for good quality, fair priced leather, in just about every market. We started to branch out to new avenues including rendezvous, Native American Pow-Wows, and other outdoor events.
In the early days you would find Kathy and I loading up our RV with our 2 daughters, and piles of leather and hitting the road. We traveled just about every weekend leaving work on Friday, arriving well after dark to set up for the weekend show. Sunday night found us loading up the RV once again to get back home for work and school on Monday. It was hectic to say the least. But we loved it!
Shortly after that our leather supplier decided he had enough. He wanted to finally retire and asked if we were interested in taking over the business. It was time for us to take the plunge. So began our full time leather business and the birth of
Distant Drums Leather.
As our children got older and there were more and more demands on their time, we realized that a traveling business could not be a long term option. So after a few more years, we settled down in Upstate New York and got to work forming our online store. A warehouse and office were built and we continually expanded buying out smaller dealers and manufacturers. A third child sealed the deal and we no longer travel for business.
We have expanded from a van and some tables at outdoor venues to multiple online selling venues including
eBay, Etsy, Facebook & Instagram.
Things were good but life is always changing.
After 50 years of living in the Northeast, we finally tired of the cold and snow. So Distant Drums headed south to Florida.
A new warehouse, office, and lots of sunshine! The kids have all grown and luckily for us, one decided to stay in the family business and has become my go to for all the day to day operations. It lets me spend more time finding deals and chatting with customers. And…more time to goof off.
If Kathy and I are not on the surface working, you’ll find us underwater scuba diving. Lucky for us we live in the perfect spot for that!
But with all the changes over the past 30 years, we realized that to be successful we needed to stick to our roots. We are crafters first and dealers second. We work very hard to make sure our customers get the right hides for their projects at a fair price. We are always happy to offer advice on what leather to use or what techniques are needed to make your idea into reality.
Please, put our knowledge to use. We are always happy to help.
Looking forward to many more years and we are excited to see what’s still to come!
Sean, Kathy, & Rebecca