Almost every time a shopper passes Werther Leather Goods in Norfolk’s Selden Market indoor boutique collective, a sign catches their eye.
“Everybody is like, ‘Oh! Belts made while you wait,’” says Derek Shaw, owner and leathersmith. Shaw handmakes every product in Werther’s cozy stall, which doubles as his miniature warehouse, using well-worn tools like an industrial sewing machine, fabric saw, arbor press, and metal bender. These assist in crafting the delicate stitching and signature details which separate quality, handcrafted leather work from mass-produced or faux options. Once the sign grabs attention, Shaw says hello and overhears the usual exchange that follows. “It’s like, ‘Ninety-five dollars for a belt?’ Then, ‘Yeah, but it’ll last you forever.’ They feel it and say, ‘Wow, that’s real leather.’”
The leather’s smell, authentic texture, and Werther’s friendly proprietor draw people in. Some take Shaw up on the offer for a custom belt made while they wait, personalized by size, color, and buckle. Others pick up a hardy yet stylish purse, or a leather bracelet that they can brand themselves with a special message or image.
All the intricate handiwork leaves behind leather scraps, metal shavings, and other odds and ends, which Shaw uses to create a series of whimsical videos called “handmade captions” on his Instagram (@WertherLeatherGoods), racking up tens of thousands of views. “My plan is to keep leaning into that—the hands-on of everything,” Shaw says. WertherLeatherGoods.com
This article originally appeared in the Best of Virginia 2025 issue.
