How would you describe your style? Inspired by antique and vintage craftsmanship but I love clean modern lines.

Do you remember the first thing you made? The first thing I made out of leather was a hand-sewn seat cover for my 1962 Vespa VBA. I found the Vespa on Craigslist, full of rust, and restored it in the kitchen of my apartment. 

Before I started making I… I was a tattoo artist for ten years.

If I weren’t a maker I’d be... Retired…and making other things.

Favorite quote or words to live by: Measure one, cut twice.

If I could run away I’d go… Nowhere. We are lucky to have the privilege of choosing where we want to be and where we want to live.

What would be on your maker’s soundtrack? The clash, Johnny Cash, Bad Religion, The Tossers and Rancid.

If you could learn a new skill what would it be? How to build a boat.

What’s your favorite movie? Dead Alive

What is your perfect day? Having time to work on shop renovations while still having time to ride bikes with my family.

Favorite flower or tree? Weeping willow

What is the most challenging project you have worked on? Why? The most challenging project that I’ve had recently is fabricating metal components for door pulls that were going to be mounted on a glass entry door.  It took some playing around to create a proper mounting system that was visible from every angle.

What was the last gift you gave someone? A leather belt I made.

Favorite podcast? I listen to NPR practically all day long in the shop. No podcasts.

Any hidden talents? I cut my boy’s hair.

Where did you grow up? The Jersey Shore

Favorite thing to cook? BBQ ribs

What are you currently watching? Schitts Creek

What are you most thankful for? My family.

To see more from Jay Teske visit, www.jayteske.com or his Instagram @jayteskeleatherco

*Portrait by Brandon Schulman