Leatherblade Calf Holster

Leatherblade, home of the original Calf Holster, specializes in uniquely functional fashion and accessories that celebrate the body as a kinetic sculptural form.

Founder & creative director, Tina Matthews, was born into a family of artists in the backwoods of Northern Kentucky. It was there she garnered a respect for the natural realm that would inspire her later work as a fine artist, costume designer, performer, & musician. 

In 2003, she completed a BFA in Fine Art from the Columbus College of Art and Design. Her devotion to fabric and natural materials was strengthened by the exceptional hand skills acquired through her studies. While in Columbus, Matthews applied her artistry to the creation of distinctive costume design, winning the reputable Halloween Highball in 2011. Her costumes have garnered national recognition through her work as a founding member of the avant garde performance group, Queen Mae and the Bells, as well as her ongoing work with DJ duo, RoeVy. From 2008 through 2012, she was part of the bicycle messenger bag company Seagull Bags, and took lead of the design department as chief of custom embroidery.

Conceived by Matthews in 2010, Leatherblade has become a public platform for the design and creative explorations of her practice. Leatherblade.com offers an ongoing Diary of her costume design, up-cycled garments, and unique accessories – some of which are for sale in the Shop.

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