Meet Krystal Myers | Owner and Creator

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

Hi Krystal, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I wish that establishing Lone Cattle Leather Works had started with great intention, but rather, I found myself unintentionally propelled into owning this business through immediate and surprising word-of-mouth attention that inspired me to continue down this particular entrepreneurial path.

I am a Music and Music Theatre teacher in Parker, Co., and believe that my experience in costuming, set building, and painting, fueled by my teenage daughter’s desire for high-quality western wear, would make learning this trade obtainable. I figured that, with enough time, patience, and YouTube videos, I could do anything. My approach to leatherworking is very similar to everything I do behind the scenes in theatre: make the mistakes, learn as you go, and never be afraid to ask questions.

I am proud to say that Lone Cattle Leather Works creates lasting, heirloom-quality custom goods. I love creating individual pieces that not only evoke a bygone era but also give me a chance to connect with clients in real and meaningful ways.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It’s interesting how one art form often leads to others. In college, as a Flute performance major at the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music, I learned the grit and perseverance it takes to make it in the arts. I’ve often said that going through their conservatory training was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life — the countless hours of practicing, rehearsals, and dealing with sometimes harsh criticism. Yet, in my own classroom, where I’ve spent almost twenty-five years, I feel my artist brain has truly developed. I was fortunate to have an Administration that encouraged me constantly to learn new things, create, and to do more for myself and for my students.

Through these life experiences, I bring not only technical finesse, but heart to my work at Lone Cattle Leather Works- I aim to bring my spirit to a trade that is deeply rooted in Western American culture, and one that has been largely male-dominated, so creating my name, in my art, in my way is especially fulfilling to me. I find this work incredibly cathartic and deeply healing for me- there is something about the smell and texture of the leather that is incredibly grounding.

I am most excited about my future with Lone Cattle Leather Works because the opportunities are endless. As my time in the classroom comes to an eventual close, I have something that will truly feed my insatiable need to create. There is much to be excited about, and I am thrilled to expand my business in the coming years through a new workshop and by building my client base.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
What an interesting question! This would be fun–

The first thing I love about the Denver area is the food! We have some seriously great eats!! My personal favorite is the Queen of Sheba, an Ethiopian restaurant on the corner of Colfax and Quebec. I love this place because it is in every way event dining- you will eat on the owner’s schedule as she is the only cook in the joint!! I have been going to this restaurant since college, and to this day, when I walk in, the owner recognizes my husband and me. Eating there is joyously delicious!

The next morning, we would go to the barn where we currently board our horse– if anyone really knows me, they know how deeply I love that horse and the grounds surrounding “our” barn. It’s incredibly peaceful there and so very healing, both horses and humans are made better there, and there’s no way to truly describe it other than visiting that place for yourself —it’s magical.

After visiting the barn, I would say we’d need to have lunch or brunch at the B&B Cafe in Castlerock, followed by some shopping at The Barn and Emporium- both very unique places to shop!

Did someone say massage? I would totally do a massage with my BFF.

Then, we’d head home to make some homemade pasta while drinking some wine. Catching up with friends in quiet time is just as important to me as experiencing new things.

Some other fun things that are completely necessary are road trips- I love all things Colorado, and experiencing history firsthand. One of my favorite places is Telluride – not only is the drive spectacular, but the Arts District has so much to offer. I am always inspired by the work others create! Dinner at The Saloon at Gorrono Ranch Restaurant is a must! The live music and excellent appetizers are an event in themselves! But that’s after we rent some bikes and cruise around to see the lesser-known parts of Telluride!

Since we’re in that neck of the woods, might as well go over to Kate’s in Ridgway, and drive over to Ouray to see the falls, and walk the downtown area. We’d of course, have to drive The Million Dollar Highway, and stay the night in Silverton, too- as this part of the world not only has some of the most spectacular sites, but some of the kindest people, too!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shout out KC Kreger, of Traditions Leather Craft in Oklahoma City, OK. KC is an incredibly kind human who has created the most supportive and educational resource I have yet to find, through his Facebook group. There, any question you have is brought forth to some of the biggest names in the trade, all while maintaining professionalism and decency that is often lacking in social media groups. Not to mention, what KC provides on the retail side is second to none- not only have I learned a great deal from KC and his community, but I also feel privileged to provide my clients with the finest materials available on the market.

Website: https://LoneCattleLeatherWorks.com

Instagram: @lonecattleleatherworks

Image Credits
Image Credit: Krystal Myers Photography