Tandy Leather Factory, Inc., has been headquartered in Fort Worth for 107 years ― ever since it was founded in 1919. The specialty retailer’s line includes leather, leatherworking tools, buckles, and adornments for belts, leather dyes and finishes, saddle and tack hardware, and do-it-yourself kits. The flagship location of Tandy Leather Factory will celebrate its grand opening event on January 24.
The former home of Tandy Leather Factory was at 1900 South East Loop 820, showcasing two story windows filled with colorful hides. Today you’ll find it at 2973 Crockett Street in Artisan Circle. That was the original home of Terra Mediterranean which is now a bit further down at 2932 Crockett Street. And, Parthenope Ristorante will open nearby in Artisan Circle soon.
“Our flagship store, located on our world headquarters campus in Fort Worth, Texas, is the home of the Tandy Leather Museum,” according to its website. “This one-of-a-kind museum — designed to preserve and showcase the historic art form of leathercraft — features an extensive collection of hand-tooled leather art from renowned artists like Al Stohlman and more. Stop by during store hours and visit our museum and browse our full product line at the world’s largest Tandy Leather store.”
Al and Ann Stohlman both advanced the craft of leatherwork. Al was a pioneer in leather craft techniques. His tool designs, patterns, instruction books, and personal demonstrations live on.
“Many of the original leather pieces used to illustrate his published books are on display, some dating back to the early 50s.”
It’s tough to imagine Western style without leather boots, belts, and saddles. Intricately tooled leather creations have a long history and place in our hearts. That’s why leather education remains one of Tandy’s hallmarks. Inspiring a new generation of makers and giving them the products and know-how to design useful handmade products carries the legacy forward.
“Since 1919, Tandy Leather has been the leading distributor of premium leather and supplies for generations of leathercrafters — providing quality leather, machines, tools, kits, and teaching resources,” they say. “Whether you are a child or an adult, a beginner or a seasoned pro, your closest Tandy location has everything you need to ‘Make Your Mark’ in the world of leathercraft.”
Tandy Leather invites customers to take advantage of its Open Table. Here you can try out tools and techniques. Their latest class schedules can be found online.
Tandy Leather Factory was once owned by Tandy Corporation (which was also headquartered in Fort Worth and the parent company of Radio Shack). Hence the name.
Today, Tandy Leather Factory Inc. distributes its products through its 99 North American stores. They are scattered across 40 US states and six Canadian provinces, with one European store located in Spain.
“Visit your local store today for in-store only leathers and manager specials, to demo a machine, or chat with one of our knowledgeable store associates about your latest project,” they say.
Tandy Leather welcomes everyone to “Make Your Mark”. Visit the new flagship store for inspiration.
