– Introduce yourself
My name is Karol Sobczuk, and I am a leather craftsman, the founder of Sobczuk Luxury Leather Goods.
Finding Inspiration in Leathercraft
– Where do you find inspiration?
I do not seek inspiration. It finds me. I am simply attentive. Wherever I am, I observe my surroundings. Often, I notice an interesting shape, element, combination of colors, or materials. This usually occurs at the most unexpected moments. The key is to observe and pay attention to what surrounds us, and we will notice what can inspire us.
Daily Habits for a Leather Craftsman
– A useful habit that can help a man
A useful habit for a man is a morning and evening routine. For several years, my morning and evening routines have been the same. I wake up about two hours before starting work and perform a series of tasks that help me “tune” for a good day. In the morning, I use the psychological effect of priming to set my mind and body for an efficient day.
In the evening, during my evening ritual, I plan the next day, writing down the things on my mind. This way, I counteract the Zeigarnik effect. I sleep better because I have the inner peace of having closed the matters for the day.
An additional habit is sleeping in a completely darkened room or with an eye mask. These two habits have greatly benefited my life and can also benefit yours.
Professional Recommendations for Leather Care
– Your professional recommendation
Before wearing leather shoes for the first time, apply a suitable protective agent. Do the same with leather accessories. I often see that when people buy leather shoes, they start using them immediately without prior protection. This significantly shortens the lifespan of leather items. Leather requires special, regular care to be long-lasting. If we do not take care of it, we will significantly shorten the lifespan of these items.
What Makes a Gentleman?
– Who is a gentleman?
For me, the concept of a gentleman has changed over the years. Initially, I associated gentlemen with dandies. I quickly realized that the way one dresses is not the sole criterion for being a gentleman. A dandy can be a gentleman, but does not have to be. Then, I associated a gentleman with someone who knows and follows the rules of etiquette well. However, now I know that the definition of a gentleman is much more.
At the core, it is simply a good person. Not arrogant, but also not a pushover. Assertive but not boastful, caring about his appearance, but not a narcissist, caring for a woman, but not a doormat. A gentleman is a “strong” man who adheres to his principles and lives by the values he has and believes in. He controls himself and knows himself well. A well-tailored suit is the icing on the cake.
Fact in the Spotlight
The best leather in the world traditionally comes from Italy, especially in Tuscany, where famous tanneries in Florence use ancient tanning methods. French leather is also highly valued for its softness and quality, especially from the Limoges region. American leather, particularly from Chicago and New York, is known for its durability and strength.
Quote of the Week
Happiness is not in possession, but in the ability to enjoy.
Confucius
That’s all for today. See you on Saturday next week!
Yours sincerely, Anton Masko
