Our Story

We are AK Leather Co., a tight-knit team - currently Ivan, Emily, Maya, Alysha and Nevaeh - who pour heart and hand into every piece right here on the Homer Spit of Alaska. When you choose our products, you’re investing in unmatched quality, supported by our lifetime warranty and belief in the beauty of “Raw Refined” craftsmanship.

Our journey began over 10 years ago when Ivan - our founder and owner - first fell under the spell of leatherwork in Cape Town, South Africa. That passion led to the creation of his first venture, Volstruis, crafting ostrich-leather wallets, belts, and other good in small batches in Portland, OR. Before long, he expanded Volstruis into other leather styles and began doing pop-up sales around the U.S.

In 2020, Ivan followed his heart back to his roots in Homer, Alaska, launching AK Leather Co. and consolidating production in his hometown a year later when the Spit Store opened in 2021. Over the years, Alaska’s raw landscapes, seasonal rhythms, and logistical challenges have only deepened our dedication - because making great things here matters.

We source most of our leathers domestically, build with solid brass hardware, and abide by a workshop mantra: We don’t make shitty things. That Eans every cut, stitch, and finishing details gets our full attention.

From exotic beginnings in South Africa to hometown crafted excellence in Homer, our story is one of evolution, passion, and staying true to place. Welcome to AK Leather Co. - where quality is personal, craftsmanship is local, and every piece carries a story.

Our Mantra is simple…

We don’t make shitty things. It’s our no-BS promise that every product we put out is built to last, crafted with intention, and made with pride right here in Homer, Alaska.

  • Most of our leathers are sourced from tanneries within the United States, with a few select hides coming from trusted tanneries in Europe. You can learn more on our ‘Our Leather’ page.

  • Yes! Every piece is handmade by our small team right here in Homer, Alaska. We design, cut, stitch, and finish everything ourselves - no outsourcing, no mass production.

  • We’ll ship your order anywhere, any time of year. Whether you’re in Alaska or across the globe, we’ve got you covered.

  • Our Spit Store in Homer, AK is open seasonally during the summer months - usually May through September. Exact dates and hours may vary - check our socials or contact us directly for current info!

Follow our journey.

She might be the cutest coin purse you’ve ever seen… but she is so much more! The Baby is tiny but mighty — perfect for skincare, beach finds, jewelry, first aid, your lil vices (blurred for legal reasons), and more. What kind of
Salmon Slut 2.0 is here — and already out putting in work! A fresh, simplified back print. A bold F/V Salmon Slut across the chest. Field-tested and fish-approved. Some say they’re good luck… but we’ll let the fillets speak f
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: MAYA Meet Maya — born and raised right here in Homer, she’s back for her second summer at AK Leather Co.! At just 16, Maya helps run the store and has recently started assisting with production, proving she’s got bo
Just in! New hats… We’re rolling out fresh hat colors, restocked bison patches, and a brand new halibut design stamped with Homer, Alaska — some say they’re good luck on halibut charters (no promises, but worth a shot, right
Staff Spotlight: Ivan! Say hey to Ivan — founder, owner, and the creative spark behind AK Leather Co. Born and raised in Homer, Ivan discovered leatherwork 10 years ago while living in South Africa. That spark turned into a full-blown passion,
GIVEAWAY TIME! Now CLOSED! Our last giveaway went so well, we wanted to switch things up and do it again — this time with two winners! We’re giving away: • One Black Dopp Kit ($125 value) • One Olive Harness Bifold Wallet ($125
Staff Spotlight: Alysha! Say hey to Alysha — the newest addition to the AK Leather Co. team! She’s 16, goes to school right here in Homer, and is splitting her time between working at AK Leather Co. and traveling for volleyball tournament