Kingsport Native Launches Leathercraft Shop
After a decade of showcasing his handmade leather goods at local craft fairs and the Kingsport Farmers Market, Frank Ireson has embarked on a new adventure with the opening of his leathercraft business storefront in Gatlinburg. Ireson is the proud owner of Viking Leathercrafts and East Tennessee Leather Co., both of which celebrate the art and craft of leatherwork.
The Journey
Ireson’s passion for leathercraft dates back to his days at Northeast State Community College, where he crafted his first set of armor in his dorm room as part of the Society for Creative Anachronism activities. He recollects a time without digital tutorials where budding craftsmen like himself relied on social learning to master a skill.
After retiring from Eastman Chemical Co. after 30 years of service, Ireson decided to venture further into his leatherwork hobby. The hobby turned business began with creating reenactment armor and Viking shoes, which he sold locally every week.
Gatlinburg Store
In November 2023, Ireson made the big move to a storefront in Gatlinburg’s local arts and crafts community, officially opening the store in December the same year, just in time for the holiday season. The store has allowed Ireson to showcase an inventory wider than what he previously had room for in street markets. Visitors can now purchase items such as belts, journals, trays, tote bags, sheaths, holsters, wallets, and other accessories, while also having the chance to see Ireson work up close.
Leather has a strong sense of memory to many people, says Ireson. The smell of leather often invokes warm memories in people, whether it be a baseball game or being around horses and saddles. Ireson currently divides his time between his shop in Gatlinburg and his online business, Viking Leathercrafts. Among his offerings are shoes for reenactors at historic sites such as Jamestown, Virginia; St. Augustine, Florida; and Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts.
Details
Frank Ireson’s shop is located in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community at 680 Glades Road, Unit 7 in Gatlinburg, and operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. You can also shop online at https://easttennleather.com/.
