We recently connected with Marvin Jobs and have shared our conversation below.
Marvin, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Crafting bespoke leather pieces demands not only technical skill but also a constant influx of fresh ideas to solve various problems. My customers often come to me with unique ideas or special requests, which test my skill and challenge my creativity.
However, in order to be creative and find clever solutions, I recognize the importance of allowing my mind to rest and reset. I view creativity as a well that, if overdrawn, can run dry. Therefore, I deliberately schedule moments of respite and days of doing only very mundane and relaxing things, acknowledging that creativity often flourishes in the space between intense focus and relaxation. These periods of doing nothing, whether a quiet walk in nature or a moment of sipping a good coffee by the window of a coffee shop, help my mind to recharge and welcome new ideas.
Additionally, collaboration and interaction with fellow artisans and artists contribute to the continuous flow of inspiration. Sharing insights, discussing challenges, and celebrating victories within a creative community nurtures a collective spirit that invigorates my individual creativity. In this dynamic interplay of exploration, rest, and collaboration, I ensure that my leatherwork remains enjoyable for me while also allowing me to have an curious mind that loves to explore new ideas and techniques.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My name is Marvin Jobs and I’m the sole owner & maker at Cavalier Goods Co., a one-man bespoke leather goods studio in Toronto (Canada). I make all items entirely by hand with a large variety of leathers, ranging from more traditional cow hides and goat skins, to more exotic leathers like American alligator, ostrich and lizard. Apart from a few regular products on my website, I specialize in custom orders. Every custom piece is the result of a well-established process I go through with my customers. This is to make sure what I design and create is tailored to their wants and needs. I’m incredibly happy when a customer sees their final product in the end, where it turns out exactly or better than they’d imagined.
Most recently, I spent 4 weeks in Vietnam to learn advanced skills in fine leather working from a master in Hanoi. I made a briefcase for the graduation project, which took over 100 hours to complete. Not only was this experience extremely humbling, but it was also very eye-opening for me in regards to what I can achieve if I put my mind and heart into something.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My journey as a leatherworker has been shaped by practicing patience, focusing on attention to detail, and keeping my mind curious. Patience is the backbone of my craft, as leatherworking involves many intricate processes and time-consuming tasks. Being patient and taking my time to meticulously stitch, cut, glue, paint and more, ensures that each piece reflects the precision and perfectionism I strive for.
Attention to detail is not just a trait; it’s what motivates me. From working out a client’s design to ensuring every stitch is looking perfectly even, every element of my work is a testament to my commitment to precision and excellence. To me, it’s in the subtleties where the true artistry emerges.
Lastly, curiosity is the driving force behind my journey as a leatherworker. It helps me to explore new techniques, embrace different styles, and incorporate new materials into my work. It transforms challenges into opportunities for growth, making my craft not just a skill but a dynamic expression of creativity and continuous learning.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My recent journey to Vietnam was a game-changer as I trained under the seasoned leatherworker Artisman in Hanoi. His expertise not only honed my leather working skills but also introduced me to advanced techniques, unveiling new dimensions in my craft. The experience not only boosted my confidence but also broadened my perspective, enhancing my ability to create with newfound skill and creativity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cavaliergoodsco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cavaliergoodsco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cavaliergoodsco
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cavaliergoodsco
Image Credits
Marvin Jobs
