Monday, April 20, 2009

How the Magic Happens




Creating three dimensional art out of leather


  1. Photos or pictures, drawings and imagination are the first step. We create paper patterns as guides for cutting out the leather. The type of leather chosen is important. Different types of leather are needed for different textures, looks and overall feel of the finished product.

  2. Once the leather is cut we use different embossing tools to create shingles, woodgrain, stone, or other intricate details needed for the project. Wet molding assists us in shaping some of the leather parts. Using an electric bench grinder and a hand Dremel help finish the shaping process. We glue the structures together. We use leather dye or acrylic paint for color. We use varnish in completing the creation for shine and durability.

  3. The last step is to create the base for our structure and add any finishing touches such as trees, sidewalks, or bushes.

Paul Beverly

Paul Beverly was born in Richmond, Virginia in 1952. Paul has traveled quite a bit throughout the years, but settled in Virginia. Paul's leather work dates back to the late 60's. The work he produced then was more traditional, it wasn't until the late 70's that the work evolved into the three dimensial art forms that you see today. Paul started working with Sandy Dyche in 1996 and they have been partners ever since.

Artist, Sandy Dyche

Sandy Dyche was born in the Sandston, Virginia in 1946. As a member of a military family she also traveled with her family. Her art work is greatly inspired by the the beauty and culture she saw while living in Japan. She attended Radford College and majored in fine arts. She now uses her keen eye for color, texture, and style to create and paint the items which are produced by the team.

P.S. It's Leather



Yes, it is leather.