ABOUT Megan
ARTIST BIO
Welcome to Cherokee West Leather Co. I have called Cherokee my home for my whole life, and even though I hate the winters, I can’t see ever leaving. My passion for horses has been a part of me since my earliest memories. I grew up obsessed with them. I’ve had the honor of owning some great ones, and the time spent beside them shaped me into the grateful person I am today.
I spent most of my childhood riding gravel roads with friends and competing in the arena. I have even ridden some bucking horses in my day...not on purpose, but it just goes to show sometimes you don’t know what you’re getting into when you step on.
Awhile back I somehow convinced my husband I needed a horse barn (ok, but really I did). During the design process I decided that barn needed an office - or more specifically a leather shop. I had just finished my first leather project, a simple, one-eared headstall, with the help of a life-long friend.
It was an arduous task. I struggled to cut the leather in the straight lines I imagined, each task seemed to be more daunting than the previous, and I truly thought hand stitching that ear piece was going to kill me. After 8 frustrating hours, even though no tears were shed, I did stab myself with an awl, so there was some blood involved, I finally came out with the finished product - and I was hooked.
Leatherwork is a humbling art form. Each piece teaches a new lesson. I still have that headstall hanging in the tackroom. It’s been on a lot of good horses.
