What A Strange Journey It's Been

[Nathan]

Hard to believe! How about leather working? Is that only four years old too or were you already a journeyman saddler or cobbler?

[artificer]

Thanks all, it's primarily due to Xmarkers that I started doing what I do. The rabble has been amazingly supportive and encouraging.

Fine sporrans they are indeed!

To you, Scott!

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I LOVE that pic, Ern!

Hard to believe! How about leather working? Is that only four years old too or were you already a journeyman saddler or cobbler?

I did a bit here and there, some in school (bookbinding, printmaking, etc), some in a previous field (interior design) when we couldn't find what we needed, but nothing as intense as cobbling or saddlery.
I generally think that most skills are pretty transferable. Once you've trained your hands to do what you want them to do, the rest of the battle is just information on a given material.

For me one of the great mysteries of sporrans is that apart from some early engravings, a good number of oil paintings and MacLeay's watercolours there is really very little documentation of early sporrans.
When photos finally come into popularity you see some of the absolutely WILD variety that was out there, and mostly appears to have vanished into thin air. I love finding a new style or pattern to add to my collection of
images- that always makes my day.

ith:

[Orionson]

Congratulations, Scott.

You have come a long way in a short time, my friend. I am honoured to have been able share a few steps along your journey.

Lang may yer lum reek.

[Bluescelt]

We've all followed your journey from the beginning and I for one was impressed by how quickly you excelled. From what I've seen your work stands right up with the best. I do appreciate your reverence for the historical and also your original designs. Keep up the good work! We are looking forward to what gems will be upcoming. Too bad you don't have a youtube channel. I'm sure you'd have a built in XMARKS audience.
Much success Scott.

[MNlad]

Congratulations on your true mastery of the craft in such a short time, Scott. You don't just set the bar high, you build a better bar. Wishing you much success in the future.

[TheOfficialBren]

Scott, I hope to own one of your marvellous sporrans in the future. Ypur talent is easily on par with the most seasoned of leather workers.
Here's to many more years and many more brilliant works of art, my friend.

[416 Rigby]

I'm very new here but it's obvious you have a gift. Very nice! Is that Bacote wood?

[MacRobert's Reply]

Thanks for continuing to share your journey with us Scott. I have found it fascinating and enjoyed the pictures of each of your creations, replicas and refurbishments. Your name is well chosen Artificer.