In the final episode of Season 7, host Ishbel Watson is joined by Alice Robinson and Sarah Grady, co-founders of British Pasture Leather—a pioneering initiative connecting fashion with regenerative agriculture. Together, they unpack how British Pasture Leather is reshaping perceptions of leather by sourcing hides from pasture-fed, high-welfare farms certified by Pasture for Life.

Alice and Sarah share the origins of their collaboration,the challenges of building a fully traceable UK-based leather supply chain, and their deep commitment to ethical sourcing, craftsmanship, and environmental accountability. They discuss what it takes to create leather that supports positive farming practices, and how their work is challenging mainstream narratives around sustainability, animal welfare, and design.

With clients like Mulberry, Navy Grey, and Billy Tanneryalready on board, British Pasture Leather is proving that transparency, traceability, and high-quality materials can coexist. Tune in for a conversation that offers a fresh, honest look at leather's place in a more responsible future for fashion and design.

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In this episode, host Ishbel Watson speaks with Bridie Rimmer, founder of Luxe Rebel Leather Co, about her journey as a self-taught leatherworker. Bridie shares her passion for heirloom fashion, custom craftsmanship, and sustainable design. They explore the emotional depth of bespoke pieces, how fashion empowers identity, and the value of transparency in material sourcing. Bridie also discusses the challenges of pricing, working in a male-dominated industry, and how she’s building a more inclusive and mindful leather community.

In this episode, host, Ishbel Watson sits down James Boston, Managing Director of Waltham Tannery.

James shares what it means to carry forward a fourth-generation leather legacy rooted in Garston Tanning, founded in 1899. He discusses Waltham’s evolution, orthopaedic innovations, and the art of custom leatherwork. From industry shifts and sustainability to recruiting the next generation, James offers sharp insight and bold ideas—like "sexing up" the trade—to keep UK leather relevant. We also explore the Leathersellers’ Project and the future of craftsmanship in a changing global market.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tiffany Parkinson, Master Saddler, Bridle Maker, and now bespoke knife-maker at Savernake Knives. Tiffany takes us on a journey through her three-decade-long career in traditional craftsmanship — from her early apprenticeship days with Kay Hastilow, to her days at EJ Wicks, to receiving a prestigious QEST scholarship, and winning accolades for her award-winning side saddle work.

We explore what it means to dedicate your life to a craft,the joy and discipline behind mastering leatherwork, and how Tiffany made a bold and creative pivot into the world of knife-making in 2024. She opens up about the emotional and technical transition between industries, the surprising connections between leather and steel, and how her past continues to shape her present.

Tiffany also shares valuable insights into mentorship, the importance of community in craft-based careers, and advice for anyone looking to enter the artisan world. Whether you're a fellow craftsperson, a lover of handmade artistry, or simply curious about the intersections of tradition and innovation — this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and the unmistakable passion of a true maker.

An inside look at how Scottish Leather Group hasreduced its carbon intensity by 90%, and the pioneering processes behind it.

In today’s conversation, we explore how Scottish Leather Group's rich history has shaped its modern identity, the key innovations that have driven it forward, and what it takes to blend centuries-old craftsmanship with future-focused solutions. We’ll also dig into SLG’s commitment to local sourcing, its partnerships across sectors like automotive, aviation, and luxury goods, and its passion for preserving the leather-making craft for generations to come.

In the season 7 premiere of Abbey England Podcraft,Ishbel Watson sits down with Mark Boddington, founder of the renowned bespoke furniture maker, Silverlining. Mark shares his journey in high-end furniture design, the joy of storytelling through craftsmanship, and how Silverliningaims to create pieces worthy of museum collections. From insights into emerging global markets, to the role of AI in today's craft industry and invaluable advice for aspiring artisans, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone passionate about design, business, or craft.

In our final episode of Season 6 of The Abbey EnglandPodcraft, Ishbel Watson is joined by Catherine Morris, Trade, Equestrian, and Charities Advisor at the Worshipful Company of Saddlers.

This short episode shines a spotlight on the Business forCreatives course—an inspiring initiative developed by Bayes Business School in collaboration with the Saddlers’ Company and the Leathersellers. If you're a saddler or leather craft business owner looking to sharpen your businessacumen, this episode is for you.

Tune in to learn how to apply, what you'll gain from thecourse, and the key dates to mark on your calendar. A must-listen for anyone passionate about combining craftsmanship with entrepreneurial success.

Applications must be received by 31st May 2025.

Link to apply https://www.bayes.citystgeorges.ac.uk/study/executive-education/open-programmes/business-for-creatives

For any questions, please contact Catherine Morris at [email protected].

In this heartfelt episode, Ishbel Watson interviews Hazel Morley as she reflects on her 31-year career with the Society of Master Saddlers. Hazel highlights the societies strong commitment to high-quality training and professional development. She discusses the Society’s recognition by City & Guilds and OFQUAL, underscoring its role in setting national standards for saddlery and saddle fitting. Hazel discusses her hopes for a lasting legacy of community and collaboration, shares her retirement plans, and expresses gratitude for the journey she has encountered.

It’s a warm and personal conversation celebrating dedication, craftsmanship, and the transition to a new chapter.

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Jack Millington,founder of Billy Tannery. We discuss the world of micro tanning, a sustainable small-scale leather production method. He explains the tanning process, including vegetable tanning, which uses natural extracts to treat hides. Jack discusses the challenges of operating one of the UK’s few micro tanneries, from sourcing local goat and deer hides to maintaining ethical production. He also shares details of an exciting collaboration with the Knepp rewilding project,transforming deer hides into leather goods. The episode highlights the craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation behind micro tanning and its growing role in the modern leather industry.

In this episode of the Abbey England podcast, Ishbel Watsoninterviews Christian Lowe, a skilled saddle maker specialising in French saddlery repair. They discuss the need for greater collaboration between saddle fitters and manufacturers, emphasising how mutual involvement could improve both craftsmanship and service. Christian highlights the benefits of cooperative business models, referencing successful examples in agriculture, and expresses his desire to mentor others in the industry. He shares his frustrations about traditional corporate structures and the lack of accessible cooperative models in Canada. The conversation concludes with a shared commitment to fostering a more connected and supportive saddlery industry.