Leather goods designer Billy Moore isn't one to wax on about superficial or exotic influences for Cause and Effects, his ruggedly handsome line of handmade belts. The real inspiration comes from the men he looked up to as a kid. Men like his father or grandfather. "They made things that were meant to last, they created and fixed things, they didn't call a mechanic or a carpenter," he says. "They had serious tools, not just hammers but anvils, torches and for some odd reason, dynamite." So in the name of quality and authenticity, Moore sources the best leathers—both new and vintage—and painstakingly crafts each one by hand. It's no wonder stylish, heritage-minded guys (along with labels like Rogues Gallery) have sought out Billy's belts. We documented his process as he crafted a belt from Horween horse hide in a mountain stream near his home in Tennessee.

Handmade
the Hard Way

 
Blood, Sweat and Tears
1

The leather starts out soaking for a few days in the stream.

2

Moore then pounds the wet leather into the rocks for texture and shaping.

3

After laying out in the sun to dry and darken, it's ready to be finished.

4

The leather is then cut into strips, oiled and attached to a handcrafted buckle.

 
 
 
 
 

{09.02.10}

 

Handmade
the Hard Way

 
 
 
 
Was this 'Mix' worthy?
Yahoo!

What is this?

 

Ask Valet.

The Expertly Packed Carry-On

Question

What should I pack for my first business trip?

- Matt, OH

Answer

With nearly every airline imposing a baggage fee nowadays, if you can get away with flying with just a carry-on, do it.

» The solution

Advertisement

Advertise on Valet

Most Popular On Valet

Advertisement

Advertise on Valet