Traditionally handcrafted leather goods, made in Chicago, IL.

In 2019, a move to a compact studio apartment in Chicago sparked an unexpected creative evolution. The sudden lack of space for my usual artistic endeavors left me feeling creatively stagnant. Downsizing meant a fresh start, and during the pandemic, I discovered the intricate world of leathercraft. What began as a curiosity quickly became an obsession after the initial plunge of buying the first tools.

Five-plus years later, I'm excited to share my passion for leather, blending the joy of creation with the pursuit of exceptional craftsmanship.

Providing another option.

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Now featured at Crafted!

Mooney Leather Goods can now be seen in person! Crafted Evanston is a collection of local artisans’ work in a variety of mediums; ceramicists, woodturners, painters, fiber artists, jewelers, and more. We are very excited to join this vibrant community and share this Chicagoland gem with our clients. Click the link below for more info on the store’s website.

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At Mooney Leather, every piece is a testament to uncompromising quality. We meticulously select vegetable-tanned leathers from a curated list of the world's most esteemed tanneries—the same suppliers trusted by the pinnacle of luxury fashion houses. My background in the luxury watch and jewelry industry isn't just a detail; it's the very foundation of our approach. This expertise has honed an unwavering eye for detail and precision, allowing us to innovate leather procedures that result in exquisite, durable, and truly luxurious products. You'll find this dedication reflected in our hardware too, which is chosen for both its enduring beauty and its resilience.

Luxury Materials

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Every Mooney Leather piece begins as a vision, sketched on paper and meticulously refined through rounds of testing. We then translate these designs into durable patterns, hand-cutting each component before transferring them to the leather itself. From there, the journey is entirely by hand: precise cutting, careful assembly, and the painstaking chiseling of every stitch hole. Each item is then traditionally saddle-stitched, a robust and time-honored technique. The final touch involves a meticulous process of sanding and burnishing each edge, creating a polished, durable finish that truly sets Mooney Leather Goods apart. This isn't just "handmade"—it's a testament to unwavering dedication.

100% Handmade, Start to Finish

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Transparency and Information

My initial dive into leathercraft was often a frustrating journey, navigating a sea of strong opinions, misinformation, and a notable lack of transparency from many commercial brands. That experience shaped a core belief: true passion for leather thrives on open knowledge. Just as valuable information was freely shared with me, I'm committed to passing that forward. At Mooney Leather, you'll find complete transparency regarding our materials and processes. My goal is to compile and present this information clearly, empowering both customers and aspiring crafters to make informed choices that perfectly align with their needs and ambitions. We're not afraid to share what we've learned—because genuine love for leather means fostering an informed community.

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