Western Makers
No material has a stronger connection to the West than leather. Cowboys rode on it, their ropes were braided with it, their boots were made from it and the cows in their care produced it. Artists and artisans have used leather in magnificent ways for centuries.
One of those artists is Howard Knight, owner of Howard Knight Custom Leather, a shop that is continuing the long tradition of leather goods in the West, and also creating new traditions with contemporary creations. Knight, who works out of his studio in Stevensville, Montana, has an eye for perfection when it comes to design and technique, and every piece he creates is one of a kind.
Recent works include briefcases, backpacks, cigar tubes, belts, wallets and even leather embellishments worked into the design of a motorcycle. He’s also quite famous for his boots, which he custom makes for each customer. In 2009 Knight made headlines when he broke a world record for creating the most expensive pair of cowboy boots ever made. Commissioned by a private international business mogul for more than $100,000, Phantom Boots featured a floral design and finely engraved gold. More than 800 hours of work went into the pair.
“As with all masterpieces in art and design, each one of my creations is done one at a time using the finest leathers and precious metals available,” he says. “My designs range from belts to motorcycles and my clients span from around the globe.”
Knight was inducted into the Montana Circle of American Masters, an honor bestowed to only 39 individuals in the country.
For more information about Howard Knight visit howardknightleather.com, email howardknightleather@gmail.com or call (406) 531-2589. He’s also on Instagram, @howardknightleather.