Every Monday, we are celebrating one of our 40 under 40 makers.

This week we are talking to Godfrey Morris, who is currently in the process of setting up his own business after trainig as a Saddler in The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery. Lets get to know him abit better with our Q&A. 

Tell us a bit about what you do? 

Currently I'm in the process of launching my business Crowncraft Leather Ltd, make bespoke leather goods and other leathercraft related items, I like the unusual and difficult things to make.

How did you get into making leather goods? 

I initially trained as a Saddler in the Army at The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, I however developed a passion for making leather goods, bags, cases and other leather accessories.

What is your favourite product to make? 

Traditional Briefcases, I could go all day and night making them, I just can't do it enough. 

What do you love most about working with leather?

I love the creativity and endless boundaries, there's literally no limit, with leather you let your imitation take you away and create the weird and wonderful things.

What are your next goals?

I intend to expand my clientèle base and expand the Crowncraft Leather brand to be a internationally recognised brand.

What advice would you give to someone who's thinking about becoming a leather worker or who has just started out?

My advice is to strive for excellence, set yourself high targets, be bold, don't be afraid of making mistakes, ask silly questions, be inquisitive and practice,
practice, practice.

What does it mean to you to be included in the 40 under 40 list? 

It's an absolute pleasure, any positive publicity is all good and promoting the leather trade is a bonus, Abbey England got this spot on.

How important do you think it is to keep traditional techniques alive in the modern world?

It's absolutely imperative that the traditional skills are maintained and continue ro be for generations to come, if we lose these skills its gone forever.

What have you done to keep relevant in a digital age? 

Good question, I think adapting to changes, embracing it whilst still paying homage to those you didn't have this luxury.

What is the biggest challenge to becoming successful in your discipline?

As in everything, competition is tight, my biggest challenge is being told, "you can't", i'm like really, I'd say stick to what you believe in, set your goals and reach for the with stars.