We had the good fortune of connecting with Wayne Christensen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Wayne, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
In regard to my custom leather business there wasn’t much of a thought process, I had been doing leatherwork as a hobby, just gotten out of the entertainment industry due to pay cuts and decided to start my own custom leather business.
The thought process in regard to the leathercraft supply store, was three of us opening a brick-and-mortar store in response to a major corporate leather supply company and going strictly online.
We believed that the community needed a physical location they could go into and purchase Native American and leather craft supplies.
Our goal was to provide a place where customers could connect with knowledgeable staff, physically interact with the products, and enjoy a more personal shopping experience that the internet did not offer.

What should our readers know about your business?
What sets my leather supply business apart? Well, it’s not about being a big company; I’m a micro-business, a one-man show. When it comes to custom leatherwork, I believe we all have our unique touch with leather. But here’s where I stand out: I teach leathercraft classes five nights a week, catering to beginners, intermediate, and advanced enthusiasts—up to 16 beginners, 12 intermediate, and 24 advanced students. I am not afraid to create my own competition in custom leather, and I have!

Living by my motto, “You only have two things, your ability & your integrity,” I prioritize delivering on time and never compromise on quality. With the selling of leathercraft supplies, unlike big businesses, I put customers first. Instead of pushing a store sale, I guide them on what they need, offering only the needed options for their projects, not trying to upsell to make money.

The challenge? In a world obsessed with the best price, competing with big stores is tough. Some seek advice but choose to buy elsewhere. How do I handle it? I keep sharing knowledge, trusting those who value it will support my shop.

Leather is far from a dying art. With 52 students a week, including 16 beginners, I’m keeping the craft alive. Locals can join a six-month course, learning everything from carving to lacing. Not local or short on time? I’m here for guidance via phone, email, or in person. With over 40 years in custom leatherwork, and selling leathercraft supplies since 1999, my shop has been a hub for supplies, instruction, and custom leatherwork. Let’s talk leather—whether it’s supplies, lessons, or custom creations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had an out-of-town visitor, I’d kick off the weekend with a trip to Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank—a Friday night flashback to the ’50s, soaking in the history of Southern California’s car culture.

As the week unfolded, the nights would come alive with music at The Last Call in Tarzana. Karaoke sessions would be mandatory, ensuring laughter and good times.

For a touch of serenity, especially if they’re from a landlocked town, a visit to the ocean would be in order. Picture waves crashing, the salty breeze, and a spectacular sunset—an experience only the coast can provide.

And, of course, no visit would be complete without a peek into my leather shop. They’d get hands-on, crafting a personalized wristband or another cool project to carry home, a tangible memento of their unforgettable visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to express my deepest gratitude to a few exceptional individuals who played pivotal roles in my journey. First and foremost, my heartfelt thanks go to my parents, they’ve pushed me and my brothers to do our best all of our lives.
A special acknowledgment goes to my girlfriend, Sandi Taylor, a cornerstone in my story. Without her, I wouldn’t have a store. For the past 24 years, she has devoted herself tirelessly, ensuring the store thrives. From managing our online presence around the clock to providing invaluable assistance, allowing me to focus on customers, teaching, and my custom leatherwork. Your dedication is truly remarkable, and I can’t thank you enough.
A shout-out to the leather masters who have stood by and supported my store, with a special mention to Robert Beard. Since day one, Robert has been an unwavering supporter, consistently coming out to teach classes almost every year we have been in business, connecting us with customers and suppliers, without him we would not still be in business.
I also want to recognize Robert Ambriz, the former president of The Leathercraft Guild that we proudly host at Standing Bear’s Trading Post.
Last by not least, to all my students—currently, I teach five nights a week—your enthusiasm and commitment fuel my passion. Your dedication speaks volumes, and I greatly appreciate each one of you.
As long as the doors stay open, I’ll continue teaching and sharing the art of leathercraft. Thank you all for being an integral part of this incredible journey.

Website: www.sbearstradingpost.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standingbears/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/standing-bear’s-trading-post/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/StandingBears

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StandingBearsTradingPost

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/standing-bears-trading-post-reseda

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/sbearstradingpost

Other: LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/standingbears Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/standingbears/ Leather by WC Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100046418876138

Image Credits
Wayne Christensen

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