With clients such as Paul Smith, The Savoy, and Vincent Van Duysen, it’s clear that Bill Amberg Studio is creating some of the most attractive and respected leatherwork today.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing the studio’s founder, Bill Amberg, about how he first became interested in leather as a schoolboy in New Hampshire, and how he has gone on to grow a thriving craft business in London.

For me, the conversation was a real learning experience into the world of leather craft.

During our conversation, Bill surprised me several times:

• The inspiration for his iconic Rocket Bag came from vintage cars, motorcycles — and a comic he enjoyed reading.
• Leatherwork and vegetable tanning date back to a time long before humans even discovered how to make wine.
• While travelling in Australia and New Zealand as a young man, Bill was able to support himself through his leather craft skills.

Refreshing thoughts on skilled craft in the AI era

I guess I am not the only one who sometimes feels a bit fed up with the constant talk about how AI will change absolutely everything.

Well, yes, new technology will—and has—always changed how humans live our lives. Still, some parts of being human have not changed more or less at all since people started creating artefacts in leather many thousands of years ago. Bill Amberg explained why he thinks craft is not a dying industry; instead, he argues that finely made things, created carefully by human hands, will be more valued and important in the future. He spoke about the increasing need for reality.

Do you agree with him?

The sculptor Sean Henry is inspired by theatre and film. Authenticity is of great importance to him. What is the difference for him when his sculptures are shown in Salisbury Cathedral or in a shopping mall? The reasons Sean Henry’s sculptures wears clothes. What is a gentleman to him?

Hillary Bacon is Marketing Director at Cordings. The company was founded in 1839. Hillary Bacon gives advice to Gentleman Lars about how to start dressing well. This is an important step for him to try to become a Gentleman. • What items of clothing should Gentleman Lars buy first? • Were to ask for advice to buy clothing with good fit. • Are second hand menswear worth buying? • Some interesting books to read about men’s style. • Inspiration from style icons. • The joy of bright colours. • No more fashion. • When buying great menswear, you are the important person, according to Hillary Bacon.