Everybody needs some "Stinkin' Badges"!

Welcome to my studio! Today I begin on 5 new leather badge commissions. Each one is uniquely handmade to the client's exact specification.

STEP 1: Prepare blanks and stencils

• I retrieved some cowhide shapes I had pre-cut prior to this project. Then I began the casing process to soften the leather for carving.

• Meanwhile, I traced the outlines of the badge shapes and noted the requested letters and imagery.

• Not shown: I become captivated by the person and their emblems, and spend uncounted hours researching images.

• Experience has proven it is safer to prepare lettering stamps prior to any drawing. Lettering must be as large and easy to read as the wee 3-4 badges will allow. Lettering is an entire art unto itself. Its size, style, and orientation on the pictorial space can radically impact its meaning. In the photo above, I position the letter stamps for the word "COURAGE" on the paper outline.

Here is a badge I made to order for a mermaid afficianado nicknamed "Haha"

Here is a large order for a group who provided me with their own line art. I made about 40 each of 3 designs

I made No DAPLE badges for donations to the Standing Rock cause last winter. Rather than collecting my $20 fee, I donated all proceeds to the tribe.

This original deadhead design displays my love of color

Thanks for viewing. I will keep you up to date on the progress of this latest group of five Stinkin' Badges.

I think they are my bestselling item because they are small talismans. They are likewise one of my favorite projects.

May you discover your personal Sigil and wear it as an emblem of strength.