During the 1970s, Ray Hatley opened four hand-crafted leather shops in Sussex, UK.
Working with some amazing friends and family, making bags, belts and a huge assortment of hand-tooled and carved leathergoods, Ray developed many of the patterns and designs that are still in production today.
Now, more than 30 years later Barefoot Leather is based in Ludlow, Shropshire. Ray doesn't have a 'bricks and mortar' shop any more but he still makes and supplies top quality hand-made leathergoods to customers all over the world though this web site.
The Sussex team included: Justin Middleton (bless him!), Bruce George, Mark Cox, 'Red Phil' Cowles, Pete Stonehouse and many, many more - thanks guys - just remember, it was all part of growing up and being British!
Our environment is precious
We firmly believe in minimising our impact on the environment. We therefore try to reduce the use of paper, preferring to use electronic documents where possible. All office paper, stationery and business cards are made from recycled material. We source our energy from an eco-friendly provider and pay a carbon-offset where possible for the delivery of supplies.
We are enthusiastic members of the Shropshire Hills 'Buy Local Be Sustainable' scheme
I am happy to undertake repairs and restoration to just about anything from rocking horses to Rolls Royces just send me an email and I'll do my best to help. If you would like something special made for somebody important then give me a call. Bespoke work is always a pleasure.
Please note: Barefoot Leather is literally a one man and a dog business.
All the Barefoot leatherwork is made by artisan leatherworker, Ray Hatley, ably assisted by Border terrier 'Mrs Brown'. The only thing Mrs Brown doesn't do is answer the phone, so emails whenever possible please to: ray@barefootleather.co.uk
Please feel free to send feedback about your purchases.
It is always nice to know when I have got it right and very important to know if I need to improve something!
