Our Vision

A Story Woven in Leather

At Aetolus, we believe the things we carry should mean something. A wallet worn into shape, a briefcase that grows more beautiful with age—these pieces tell our stories long after we’re gone.
Every item is crafted slowly and honestly. Using traditional methods, full-grain hides tanned with natural tree bark, linen thread, and solid brass—not plated or coated, but real, enduring brass that will age gracefully and never chip or fade. These are materials chosen not for trend, but for truth.
Behind every piece is a single pair of hands—those of the founder and craftsman, working in a small Edinburgh workshop.

From the Kitchen to the Workbench: How Aetolus Began

It all started with a case for binoculars.

I spent countless days roaming the Scottish Highlands—hiking, wild camping, cooking over a fire—refining my gear until it stood the test of time. When I needed a pouch in a specific size, I couldn’t find one that fit the way I wanted. So I made it myself.
Using a post-WWI, hand-cranked Singer machine and whatever materials were on hand, that first pouch—imperfect but mine—sparked something. I kept going.
For over a decade, I worked as a chef; before that, I trained in carpentry in Germany. Leatherwork was a quiet side pursuit—until the summer of 2024, when a health issue pulled me out of the kitchen. That change—though difficult—became the turning point. I leaned into leathercraft fully, working with my hands in a way that felt honest, traditional, and rooted in something older than myself.

Thanks to the encouragement of mentors and friends—like my spiritual father, Fr. Luke, and Mr. William at The Vintage Paper Co.—I began building Aetolus from the ground up.

The Binocular case
Second Attempt at Leathercraft: A Cylinder Pouch

Why Handmade Still Matters

To work by hand is to work with patience. It’s like cooking with real stock—bones, herbs, time—not the powdered shortcut. The result is deeper, truer. It holds memory.

At Aetolus, I use hand tools only. No machines, no laser cutters. Every piece is hand-stitched with historical linen thread from France, waxed and drawn through leather that’s been tanned for months—sometimes a year—with tree bark, roots, and time. This process gives the leather its unique smell, feel, and ability to age with grace.
The brass I use isn’t plated. It’s the real thing—solid, elemental. Known in ancient times as orichalcum, the “lost metal” of Atlantis, brass has always held a place in history. It tarnishes and darkens with use, taking on a patina full of character. And if you ever want it bright again, a simple polish restores its shine.

I make goods for those who care about these things. For people who believe that what’s made slowly, lasts longer.

Our Offerings

Crafted by Hand. Built for a Lifetime.

Whether it’s a bespoke knife roll, a heritage-style briefcase, or a leather pouch for everyday use, everything that comes out from Aetolus is designed to endure—and to mean something. Our goods are never mass-produced. Each one is made one at a time, using tools and methods that would feel familiar to a craftsman a century ago.

Hand-stitched

Hand-stitching significantly enhances longevity and durability, providing bonding strength that exceeds machine stitching by 130%.

Quality leather

Our leather is ethically sourced and is tanned using natural tannins. A traditional process that takes up to two months.

Easily Repaired

Our products are designed for longevity. Rivets can be replaced, leather can be reconditioned, and threads can be restitched.

Endurance

Our leather goods have a distinct aesthetic and impressive durability. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.

Personalisation

Add a personal touch by choosing initials, a name, a phrase, or a date to be engraved on your item.

Attention to Detail

We strive for perfection through high-quality craftsmanship.

Most of our hardware comes from a historic Walsall foundry and is 100% solid brass

Our leather is sourced from trusted British suppliers, crafted with heritage and care

Our Values

Through craftsmanship and integrity, we create timeless leather goods.

Our values shape everything we do and reflect our dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and authenticity. By staying true to these principles, we create leather goods that are timeless and reliable.

Integrity

As a family business, we prioritize integrity in all our dealings.

Authenticity

Our products feature real leather, unique designs, and adhere to our traditional work ethos.

Trust

Transparency and communication are key values that guide our business practices.

Hand-Crafted

All our products are and will always be hand-crafted, maintaining the personal touch.

100% Recyclable

Our packaging is plastic-free and easily recyclable, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.

All Natural

We use only leather, brass, steel, canvas, and paper in our workshop, ensuring that our materials are natural and high quality.

Crafted for Those Who Value Simplicity and Strength

This work is for those who want to own fewer, better things. For those who carry tools with care, who recognise the feel of true leather, and who choose to invest in tradition.
When you choose Aetolus Leather, you’re not just buying a product. You’re supporting an independent workshop. You’re choosing something made with thought, made to last, and made to be passed on.

Glory to God, for all things!

Read the Journal

Stay updated with our latest creations, behind-the-scenes stories, and expert tips on leather care. Visit our blog to dive deeper into the world of our craftsmanship.

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