Top of the page

40 under 40: Meet Rachel Lok

Monday, 9 January 2023

Rachel Lok 

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

This week we are talking to Rachel Lok, from Lok Saddlery. Rachel was our first ever Scholarship winner back in 2018, and we have loved watching her become an accomplished saddler. Not only is she a an SMS Qualified saddle maker but also a bridle maker, harness maker & saddle fitter. Based in Westerham, Kent, Rachel  has a love for making bespoke leatherwork & saddlery items.

Let's get to know her.

Tell us a bit about what you do?

I am a Master Saddler and Qualified Saddle Fitter. I undertake leatherwork commissions ranging from saddlery items to camera cases to furniture.

How did you get into making leather goods?

I've ridden and owned horses from a young age and always enjoyed making things. One day it clicked to join the two passions into a career!
I attended Capel Manor College for 2 years and never looked back


What is your favourite product to make?

I love a new challenge, anything that gets me thinking of new approaches or different techniques inspires me.

What do you love most about working with leather?

The endless options of skins, finishes, uses, colours

What are your next goals?

I would like to broaden my skill set, learn new techniques and make new exciting things.


What advice would you give to someone who's thinking about becoming a leather worker or who has just started out?If you haven't tried it yet I would suggest trying a short course, maybe a day or a week to get a feel for it.

If you're just starting out, practice practice practice! And always feel free to ask questions.

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

It's a privilege to be included amongst such fantastic artisans. And I'm looking forward to opening up a platform to share ideas and inspiration.

How important do you think it is to keep traditional techniques alive in the modern world? Incredibly so! To progress, we need to build upon what we already know.


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

Utilising social media to reach a wider audience.


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

Finding teachers can be difficult especially if you are unable to travel but the industry is full of wonderful individuals all happy to impart their wisdom.


To join this network of great makers, please follow Rachels' Instagram page HERE