Hi, I am Joshua Calloway of Leatherhead Originals.
My love of wearing/ designing hats started in my teen years as a way to express myself and create my identity. I was into leather at the same time(but sadly couldn’t afford any leather clothing), so I taught myself how to sew leather(salvaged from old jackets) and draft my own patterns for non- mainstream headwear that wasn’t sold in stores or not affordable.(was the late 1980s/ early ’90s).
I started with some “medieval” style caps that had earflaps and pointed tops (inspired by hats I saw in the 1986 movie “Golden Child”. This seeded my love for Kufi Hats too and I was actually bold enough to wear them in public.
I’ve never been interested in making belts, wallets and purses like most other leathercrafter as I get bored very fast with that stuff.
I was diagnosed with Aspergers (high functioning autism) in my late 20s, when it wasn’t yet widely known. We in the “Aspie” community see the world differently than “neurotypicals” and even more so as an artist. This is an asset for me, to be able to focus and imagine in my line of work. I always strive to learn more about leather sewing and hat design, there’s always more to discover and so I refuse to be a “know-it-all”.
I am currently a one-man operation who designs patterns, acquire materials, cuts said materials, sews/ tailor the items, lists for sale on Etsy, and ships around the world. Each is a very unique piece made just for you. To your size and specifications. If you can you dream it, or sketch it, I can make it for you in leather.
