Don Gonzales

Many of us, who have been in the leather business for a long time, started out with Al Stohlman books and Tandy Leather tools. Some craftsmen were even able to go to a Tandy store and take lessons. For the young person interested in the leather business now, it’s a brave new world; one unlimited by the brick-and-mortar walls of the nearest leather dealer.

Since last spoke with saddlemaker Don Gonzales for the April 2019 issue, he has moved into a new shop in Moulton, Texas. The historic building was, by chance, home to a boot and shoe shop owned by Rudy Simper many years ago. With 2,700 square feet, the property has room for a retail area, a shop, and just as important, room to record digital media. Although Don continues to custom make high-end saddles and gear, his foray into the digital world of social media is an