TikTok, Tannery, and Transformation: How Leather Became My Legacy

Nov 29, 20244 min read

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What's Inside

For years, I struggled to grow my leather brand online. From 2017 to 2022, I tried every strategy I could think of, but nothing seemed to work. That’s when I discovered TikTok. Instead of focusing on selling products, I decided to share my genuine love for leather craftsmanship. My approach was simple: post one video a day, no matter what, for a few months and see what happens.

Using only my phone and the CapCut app, I would shoot and edit short videos inspired by whatever struck me that morning. The results were amateur at first, but I stayed consistent and kept learning. What surprised me most was how much my audience connected with my authenticity. They engaged deeply when I shared lesser-known facts about leather or spoke about relatable experiences in my daily life. This feedback encouraged me to improve. I began experimenting with better editing and storytelling techniques, and the process became something I genuinely enjoyed.

DISCLAIMER: These videos are a paid advertisement for TikTok. While TikTok supports my content, all opinions shared are my own and reflect my genuine experiences. The decision to share my passion for leather craftsmanship through TikTok was made independently. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only.

The First Viral Video That Changed Everything

Then, on day 31, everything changed. One video—where I recounted a quirky phone call with Chanel customer service—went viral. Suddenly, the comments section was flooded with questions, feedback, and even unusual requests. That moment sparked an idea: what if I created more content dissecting luxury leather products? My curiosity led me to embrace a new persona, the Bag Butcher, diving into the craftsmanship and hidden details of high-end bags. Audiences couldn’t get enough, and my follower count started skyrocketing.

From Passion to Leathertainment

As the numbers grew, I began investing in my content. I brought in help from talented videographers and editors, upgraded my equipment, and slowly elevated my production quality. Each improvement was noticeable, and my audience appreciated the effort. The extra support also gave me time to focus on what I loved most—researching and writing. This shift transformed my passion into a new concept I now call Leathertainment: educational and entertaining storytelling about leather craftsmanship. This approach not only resonated with my audience but also caught the attention of mainstream media. Before I knew it, I was being featured in publications like The New York Times and Der Spiegel, which further expanded my reach and boosted my business.

Why I Moved to Spain to Elevate My Content

While my content thrived in Dallas, I realized something was missing: access to the materials, brands, and stories I needed to elevate my work further. My research kept pointing to Europe, specifically to a small village in the Andalusian mountains of Spain called Ubrique, renowned for its leather craftsmanship. It felt like the next step in my journey. So, I took the leap and moved my family to Spain, where the air itself seemed infused with leather-making history.

Living in Ubrique: Creativity Meets Craftsmanship

Living in Ubrique transformed my creative process. Each day, I wake up inspired by my surroundings and the seasoned artisans I meet. Whether it’s visiting a local tannery or speaking with a craftsman about techniques passed down for generations, I’m constantly gathering material for my videos. I jot down my ideas, turn them into engaging stories, and shoot the visuals myself or with the help of my family. Then, my editor works magic, weaving my footage into polished, engaging content. The process is collaborative and deeply fulfilling, and it allows me to create videos that offer unparalleled insight into the world of leather.

The Power of Proximity: Creating High-Quality Content in Europe

Relocating to Spain has made producing high-quality content infinitely easier. I can now travel to iconic workshops or source rare materials with minimal effort. For example, a quick flight within Europe costs less than €50, making it practical to visit a famous tannery or interview an artisan. This kind of proximity was impossible in Dallas and has become a game-changer for my storytelling.

Work-Life Balance: Inspiration Beyond the Workshop

Beyond the creative benefits, this lifestyle has improved my work-life balance. Living in the Mediterranean inspires me to take time for myself and explore new experiences with my family, which, in turn, feeds my creativity. The results speak for themselves. As my content improves, so does my business, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities this journey has brought me.

Conclusion: The Power of TikTok and High-Quality Videos

TikTok’s unique platform gave me the chance to share my passion with the world. By focusing on creating high-quality videos, I connected with millions of people who share my curiosity and appreciation for leather craftsmanship. It started with a simple decision to hit record and post a video each day, no matter how imperfect. Over time, my consistency, authenticity, and commitment to improving quality turned a small idea into a life-changing platform.

If you have a passion, don’t let doubt hold you back. Platforms like TikTok offer incredible opportunities to showcase your creativity and connect with a global audience. With dedication and a focus on delivering value through high-quality content, you can transform your passion into something extraordinary—just as I did. My journey began with a single video, and yours can too. What are you waiting for? Hit record, and start sharing your story today.