ALL ABOUT LEATHER LEAF JEWELRY
This weeks blog is all about the creation of my leather leaf jewelry. I will share the stories of what inspired the collection, why I selected the leaf shapes I have, and how the leaves are created in leather.
Join me next week to learn how the color is added to the leather feather and the leather leaf jewelry.
In this Maker Monday Episode I will discuss what inspired the leather leaf shapes. Discover which leaf products were created first and their connection to Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum. Click on the image below to watch.
Did you watch the video and learn what the Tool Trivia tool is called and how it is used?
It is called a Hair Blade. It’s main purpose is to make fur look real when carving mammals on leather such as on the pandas shown here.
In the video, I use the hair blade to create the veins on the leather feather jewelry. If you watched last week’s Workshop Wednesday video you would have also seen the tool being used.
In the photo below the hair blade is used to create the fine feather details.
Flashback Friday
The Flashback Friday segment of this blog and also on my Facebook page, is usually as it says , a flashback of products made long ago. I have only been making the jewelry for a couple of years, so I decided to share some photos from Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, since it is my connection there, that influenced this collection.
The Catalpa tree shown in the lower photo is right next to the space where I set up at the pow wow.
The pow wow is on the grounds of the Indian museum in Warner and is always the second weekend in July. This year the date is July 11-12. It is a fun event for the entire family! I hope you will join us.
Become a VIP Insider
Sign up to become a VIP Insider.
VIP’s are the first to get the info. on all my Live Events on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram such as Giveaways, New Collection Launches , Sales, and Special Promotions.
About the Author
Jan Hibbard was born and raised in Wakefield, Mass. My love of animals and my interest in crafts developed as a child. My journey with leather began 42 years ago as I working on my teaching degree in Boston. Barnes & Noble opened in downtown Boston and I found a book on leatherwork. It mentioned 2 leather companies located in Boston. I went there the next day and I purchased my first hide of leather and a few tools. I made a leather vest which I still wear today. My LOVE of leather was born and it continues to grow.
Other Blog Posts
Rainforest Collection: From Classroom Wonder to Conservation
The Story Behind My Rainforest Collection Nature has always been my greatest source of inspiration, and throughout my years creating leather art, I have found myself drawn to the beauty, diversity, and wonder of the natural world. Although I discovered leatherworking in 1977 while I was a college student, another important influence came later during my 30-year teaching career, including 20 years as a kindergarten teacher. Of all the themes I taught over the years, the rainforest was always my favorite. What began as a science unit quickly became an immersive experience that lasted nearly sixteen weeks. As the unit progressed, our classroom was transformed into a rainforest filled with tropical sounds, colorful wildlife, and hands-on learning experiences. Every corner of the room invited exploration and discovery. The children didn’t just learn about the rainforest—they became passionate about protecting it. Together, we made soap, candles, bookmarks, stickers, and other rainforest-themed items. We held bake sales and created a rainforest museum for families to visit. The money we raised was donated to the Rainforest Action Network to help support rainforest conservation efforts. As I guided my students through the unit each year, I found myself becoming just as fascinated as they were. I was captivated by the incredible variety of rainforest wildlife and the vibrant colors found throughout this remarkable ecosystem. The brilliant plumage of tropical birds, the striking patterns of exotic butterflies, the unique features of rainforest animals, and the beauty of tropical flowers all sparked my imagination. The rainforest seemed to be a world where every creature was more colorful, more unusual, and more extraordinary than the last. Those experiences stayed with me long after I left the classroom. When I began designing my Rainforest Collection, I found myself revisiting the same sense of wonder I felt while teaching
The Amazing Journey of the Monarch Butterfly
Every summer, I look forward to seeing Monarch butterflies drifting through the milkweed fields in my yard. Their bright orange wings seem to glow in the sunlight, and whenever I spot one, I can’t help but stop and watch for a moment. As someone who finds endless inspiration in nature, Monarchs have always fascinated me. Their beauty is obvious, but their story is even more remarkable. These delicate butterflies undertake one of the greatest migrations in the natural world, traveling thousands of miles across North America. As a classroom teacher, we would raise them from eggs and release the adults to begin their long journey. A Life That Begins on a Single Plant The Monarch’s journey begins on milkweed. Female Monarchs lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed plants because it is the only food Monarch caterpillars can eat. Once the egg hatches, a tiny caterpillar emerges and begins feeding. Over the next several weeks, it grows rapidly, shedding its skin multiple times before forming a chrysalis. If you’ve never seen a Monarch chrysalis up close, it’s worth taking a look. The jade-green casing, often accented with tiny gold sparkly dots, looks more like a piece of jewelry than something found in nature. Inside, one of nature’s most incredible transformations takes place. When the butterfly finally emerges, its familiar orange and black wings are ready for the next chapter of its journey. One of Nature’s Greatest Migrations After wintering in Mexico, monarchs start their return journey. Once they reach their destination, they breed, lay eggs, and then die. What amazes me most about Monarchs is the distance they travel. Each fall, Monarchs from across the United States and Canada begin a migration south to the mountains of central Mexico. Some butterflies travel as much as 3,000 miles to reach their wintering
Let Your Style Take Flight With Leather Butterfly Earrings
There’s something special that happens when you put on the right pair of earrings. Not just something pretty… but something that feels alive. That’s exactly what I aim for with my leather butterfly earrings. They’re not meant to sit quietly in the background. They’re meant to move, catch the light, and feel like a small piece of nature you get to wear. Handcrafted, One Pair at a Time Every pair of my butterfly leather earrings starts the same way—with a piece of leather and an idea inspired by nature. I hand-cut each butterfly shape, then carve, paint, and shape it so the wings have depth and movement. I don’t want them to look flat or stiff—I want them to feel like they could flutter at any moment. Because of that, no two pairs are ever exactly alike. And that’s what makes them special. Light as Air, Easy to Wear One thing I hear all the time… “I love statement earrings, but they’re too heavy.” That’s why I design mine differently. These leather butterfly earrings are incredibly lightweight. You get that bold, eye-catching look without the pulling or discomfort. You can wear them all day—whether you’re out exploring, working, or heading to an event—and forget you even have them on. Until someone compliments them… which happens a lot Inspired by Nature (and a Bit of Wonder) Butterflies have always fascinated me. They’re delicate, but strong. Quiet, but impossible to ignore. And they carry that feeling of change, growth, and beauty. That’s what I try to capture in every pair of butterfly leather earrings I make. So when you wear them, it’s not just about style—it’s about wearing something that feels meaningful. Color, Detail, and a Touch of Realism I hand-paint each pair to bring out the natural beauty of the butterfly. Some are soft and subtle. Others
Turn Every Hairstyle Into Something You’ll Love Wearing
I’ve always believed the little details are what make something truly special—and your hair is no different. A simple twist or bun can feel completely different with the right piece. Not just any clip… but something with character. Something that feels like you. That’s exactly what I create with my leather and stick hair accessories. These aren’t just made to hold your hair in place. They’re made to bring a bit of nature, a bit of art, and a bit of story into your everyday look. Not Just a Hair Accessory… A Small Piece of Art Every piece I make starts the same way—with a piece of vegetable-tanned leather and an idea inspired by nature. I hand-carve each design myself, whether it’s a delicate feather or a detailed butterfly hair barrette. Then I bring it to life with hand-painted color and shaping so it feels almost alive. No two are ever exactly the same—and I like it that way. Because when you wear one, it should feel like it was made just for you. Why Butterflies Keep Showing Up in My Work There’s something about butterflies I’ve always loved. Maybe it’s the movement… maybe it’s the symbolism… or maybe it’s just how they catch your eye without trying too hard. My butterfly hair accessories are designed to do the same thing. The wings are shaped and painted to give them depth and life, so when you tuck one into your hair, it becomes the piece people notice. Not loud. Not overwhelming. Just quietly beautiful. Easy to Wear, Hard Not to Love I design my leather and stick hair accessories to actually work—not just look good. The stick slides in smoothly and holds everything in place, whether you’re doing a messy bun, a twist, or a half-up style. No pulling. No fussing. Just simple, secure styling. They’re lightweight enough
Discover the Joy of the “Treasure Box” Subscription
A Monthly Surprise from Nature-Inspired Leather Art Imagine receiving a beautifully wrapped parcel each month—something handcrafted, meaningful, and uniquely designed just for you. With the Treasure Box Subscription, you’ll get exactly that: a monthly surprise curated by Jan at Log Cabin Leather, inspired by the wings of butterflies, the songs of birds, and the textures of natural leather. What’s Inside Each Box Every month, subscribers will receive: Why This Subscription Is Special Subscription Details at a Glance Who Should Consider It This Treasure Box is a perfect fit for: How to Get Started Final Thoughts The Treasure Box Subscription from Log Cabin Leather by Jan is more than a monthly delivery—it’s a little ritual, a tangible connection to the natural world, and a celebration of artistry and thoughtful design. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting someone special, this subscription promises a blend of elegance, surprise and meaning in every box. Ready to subscribe? Visit the product page and reserve your spot before the limited slots fill up.
6 Amazing Handmade Leather Gift Ideas for Butterfly-Lovers
Nature-Inspired Gifts for Butterfly Enthusiasts Finding the perfect gift for a nature lover can be challenging, especially when you want something meaningful and unique. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a friend, daughter, or any woman who loves nature, birds, and butterflies, these ideas will inspire you. Log Cabin Leather by Jan offers a stunning collection of handcrafted leather items that celebrate the magic of nature. Let’s dive into six standout gifts perfect for butterfly lovers who appreciate quality, nature, and individuality. Fluttering Finery: Nature-Inspired Leather Art For those who adore the outdoors, birdwatching, or the beauty of butterflies, a handcrafted leather gift brings a touch of nature into everyday life. At Log Cabin Leather by Jan, each piece is carefully designed to capture nature’s elegance. These aren’t just products; they’re mini works of art, hand-tooled and painted with precision and care. Unique Butterfly-Inspired Jewelry Hand-painted leather earrings, necklaces, and barrettes are perfect for adding a touch of nature to any outfit. Each piece is inspired by the vibrant colors and patterns found in butterflies. These jewelry items are not only beautiful but also lightweight and comfortable to wear daily. Butterfly Earrings Butterfly Necklaces Leather Butterfly Barrettes Crowned Hairstreak Butterfly Jewelry Set 1.Leather Butterfly Jewelry Sets offer a versatile and stylish accessory for nature lovers. The adjustable cord on the necklace allows it to be easily customized to suit any outfit, whether casual or formal. With a range of realistic butterfly colors available, you can choose a set that reflects your unique style or matches your favorite attire. Crafted from high-quality, eco-friendly leather, these pieces are lightweight and comfortable. making them perfect for everyday wear while adding a touch of natural beauty to your look. Dangle Earrings Singles Studs 2.Butterfly Earrings come in three stunning styles: button studs,
