Meet Lendi Williams | Leatherworker, Potter

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

Hi Lendi, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
From as early as I can remember, I’ve always had a strong artistic drive. Starting my own small business came from a need to have an outlet for that and to supplement my income as a single mom.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
A little over 9 years ago, I shifted my focus to primarily leatherwork. It was an art form I was literally born into as my parents owned a saddle shop and did custom leatherwork and repair work. I wanted to carry on my dad’s legacy and spent many hours under his guidance to hone my skills. Leatherwork is a lifelong learning experience and has its own unique challenges. I am proud of the style I have developed for myself. My use of color and incorporating traditional carving styles with unexpected elements allows me to claim my own little piece of the industry.

Last year, I stepped back into a pottery studio after a break of many years. It did not take long for me to decide that my business would be expanding to include hand-thrown ceramics. I often incorporate leather with my decorative pieces by added hand braided leather and feathers that I’ve beaded.

While leatherwork will always be my priority, pottery allows me to create freely without the demands of custom orders. It provides balance between running my leather business and maintaining a demanding full time career. In August, I’ll celebrate 29 years in the telecommunications industry.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Luckily for me, my best friend lives close by and is always up for an adventure. We often find ourselves soaking up local cuisine and culture throughout Fort Worth. Dinner at Byblos, margaritas at Joe T’s or Uncle Julio’s, or even just looking for really good tacos! We first met each other in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so that is one of our most beloved places to go. There’s always something to see or do happening in Cowtown!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am blessed to be surrounded by some of the most encouraging and supporting people. I could not have accomplished any of this without my family. My parents instilled in me a solid work ethic and have always encouraged me to create. From the early days of setting up at craft shows and handmade markets, my daughter was the best helper I could ever ask for.

Website: pawneeroseleatherco.com

Instagram: @pawneeroseleatherco

Facebook: Www.Facebook.Com/pawneeroseleatherco

Image Credits
All photos by myself