Tundra Leather: A Legacy of Craft, Community, and Making Things That Last

 

In downtown Hamilton, Ontario, there’s a place where leather isn’t just sold — it’s understood, respected, and shared. For more than six decades, the storefront that now houses Tundra Leather has been a cornerstone for makers. Since 1991, under the name Tundra Leather, it has grown into a trusted supply shop, workshop, and learning space for leatherworkers at every stage.

Today, Tundra Leather is led by Kristi Grove, who manages the day-to-day operations of the family business her parents built. While her mother, Sylvia Grove, is technically the owner, Kristi carries the responsibility — and the legacy — forward with care.

Leatherwork has always been part of Kristi’s life. She grew up surrounded by hides, tools, and the steady rhythm of making. Her father, Peter Grove, discovered leatherworking at just nine years old during a summer skills camp, a passion that followed him throughout his life. Over the years, Peter worked on and off with Tandy Leather, refining his skills and deepening his connection to the craft.

In 1982, he began Tundra Manufacturing Incorporated as a part-time venture focused on leather production. A pivotal moment came in 1991 when Tandy Leather decided to close its Hamilton location — a space that had housed a leather shop since 1961. Faced with a big decision, Peter and Sylvia took a leap of faith. They bought the building, the business, and everything that came with it, shifting the focus from manufacturing toward retail. That decision marked the beginning of Tundra Leather as it exists today.

The name itself reflects Peter’s philosophy. Inspired by the Arctic tundra, it speaks to durability, resilience, and longevity — values that still guide the business. “It’s about work that’s meant to last,” Kristi says, “not something made to follow trends.”

In 2015, after Peter passed away, Kristi took over the business. By then, she had built a career elsewhere, working as a Finance Assistant in the Provost’s Office at McMaster University. Returning to Tundra Leather full-time wasn’t about chasing entrepreneurship in the traditional sense. It felt more like a natural continuation.

“I didn’t grow up planning to run a business,” Kristi explains. “But I did grow up in a small business environment. When the time came, stepping in felt right.”

Over the years, Kristi has made thoughtful changes — expanding class offerings, refining the product mix, and adapting to how people create and shop today — while staying true to the shop’s roots. The goal has never been rapid growth, but sustainability, consistency, and support for both customers and staff.

“I didn’t do this just for myself,” she says. “I did it for my dad, for Sean, and for the customers who rely on quality materials and solid advice.”

That sense of responsibility extends to the people who make Tundra Leather what it is.

Sean Dalgetty, a full-time leatherworker, has been with the shop since 1995. He teaches the majority of classes, helps customers troubleshoot projects, and brings decades of hands-on knowledge to the floor. “I couldn’t do what we do without him,” Kristi says. “And he couldn’t do it without me.”

The team also includes Ro Cegnar, a part-time staff member who has become an integral part of the business over the past few years, helping across all areas of the shop.

Together, they’ve created an environment where questions are welcome, mistakes are part of learning, and there’s no gatekeeping around skill level.

Tundra Leather is a true brick-and-mortar leather shop — a place where customers can touch hides, compare weights and finishes, ask questions, and leave with everything they need to bring a project to life. The shop carries leather in a wide range of colours and weights, along with tools, hardware, patterns, and supplies.

But it’s also a place for learning. Hands-on classes introduce beginners to their first stitches while helping experienced makers refine their skills. Custom leather goods and small-batch pieces are made and sold both in-store and online, reflecting the shop’s belief in slow, thoughtful craftsmanship.

“We care most about supporting makers,” Kristi says. “Whether someone is walking in for the first time or has been working with leather for decades.”

Running a small business hasn’t been without challenges. Like many independent shops, Tundra Leather has navigated supply-chain disruptions, inventory management issues, and the ongoing balance between growth and sustainability — all while maintaining quality and staying true to their values.

Through it all, Kristi has learned that consistency matters more than perfection. The shop’s hours rarely change. If they say they’ll be open, they’re open. If something goes wrong, they make it right.

“Our customers know we’re human,” she says. “But they also know we care.”

One of the most unexpected rewards has been the loyalty of the maker community. Customers return year after year, often bringing children, friends, or students. Watching someone complete their very first leather project in a class never gets old.

People sometimes ask, “Do people still do leatherwork?” Kristi smiles at the question. “The answer is absolutely yes — and we’re here to help.”

Celebrating 35 years as Tundra Leather, expanding class offerings, and continuing to serve downtown Hamilton are milestones the team is proud of — not because they signal growth alone, but because they reflect continuity.

At its core, Tundra Leather is about more than leather. It’s about patience, learning, and making things well. It’s about using materials thoughtfully and supporting people wherever they are in their creative journey.

Whether someone walks through the door looking for a single tool, a full side of leather, guidance on their first project, or a custom piece made to last, the goal is always the same: to meet them with experience, care, and respect for the craft.

In a world that often values speed over substance, Tundra Leather remains grounded — quietly proving that there’s still a place for things made slowly, by hand, and with purpose.