The Leatherworkers Guild

The Leatherworkers Guild encompasses all professions that utilize skin, hide and fur from the variety of beasts to be found on Terra. It's members are expected to treat the remains of these beasts with the utmost respect, honoring the sacrifice of their lives for the benefit of others.

Structure

• Grandmaster Leatherworker: A grandmaster is most often the current leader of the Guild though it is not a necessity for the position. They wear an ocean plait mat as a mark of their rank. As Grandmaster, it is expected that they will deal with any complaints brought to the guild in regards to the work of their members or business dealings, including the administration of any punitive measures against the leatherworker in question if they are found in the wrong. They also handle the day-to-day management of the guild, assigning tasks to those of lower ranks as necessary.
• Master Hidesmith: A master leatherworker has progressed through the ranks to be seen as one of the penultimate artists in the trade, earning their third knot of rank; the Celtic Knot. They are often at the pinnacle of their skill and actively innovate within the craft. At this rank, it is expected that the master will be available to teach those of lower ranks, evaluate aspiring leatherworkers for rank advancements, and educate the novices/apprentices on the history and more complex techniques of leatherworking. It is also that they will actively participate in guild business as needed or requested.
• Senior Artisan: A Senior Artisan is an expert leatherworker who has honed their skills over years of dedicated practice. They have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in various aspects of leatherworking, including cutting, tooling, stitching, dyeing, and finishing, and have earned their second knot of rank; the Carrick Bend. Senior Artisans play a vital role in passing on their knowledge and skills to junior members of the guild. They serve as mentors, providing guidance, advice, and hands-on training to help less experienced members improve their craft. Senior Artisans are expected to lead or participate in collaborative projects that demonstrate the collective skills and creativity of the guild. These projects can, and often do, serve as showcases for the guild's talent.
• Journeyman: Journeyman have earned their first knot of rank, a square knot, and are considered capable of handling individual projects unassisted that will be assigned to them. They are still encouraged to seek guidance from their senior craftsman, especially for more complex projects. They are permitted to also take on individual commissions with approval and guidance of their senior craftsman. 
• Apprentice: An apprentice is a novice in the craft and as such are expected to focus on learning the tools, skills, terminology and artistry of the craft. They are assigned to a Senior Artisan or Master Hidesmith for their education. They are expected to assist their assigned mentor with their commissions and personal projects and will be assigned small projects of their own to help them learn or demonstrate their newfound skills.

Culture

First and foremost, the guild is a tightly-knit community, where members forge strong bonds of friendship and mutual support. Apprentices are welcomed into the fold with open arms, mentored by seasoned masters who impart their knowledge with patience and generosity. There's a sense of shared purpose and pride in belonging to the guild, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere within its walls. Respect for tradition is paramount within the guild. Centuries-old techniques passed down through generations are cherished and preserved, ensuring that the craftsmanship remains of the highest caliber. Members take great pride in upholding the standards set by their predecessors, honoring the legacy of those who came before them.
Innovation also plays a crucial role in the guild's culture. While tradition is revered, members are encouraged to push the boundaries of their craft, exploring new techniques, materials, and designs to keep their work fresh and relevant. There's a spirit of experimentation and creativity that permeates the guild, driving members to constantly strive for excellence and push the limits of what is possible with leather.
Collaboration is another hallmark of the guild's culture. Members freely share their knowledge and expertise, offering guidance and support to one another whenever needed. Whether it's troubleshooting a tricky stitching pattern or sourcing the finest hides, there's always someone within the guild willing to lend a helping hand.
Despite their competitive spirit, members of the guild also understand the importance of solidarity. In times of hardship or adversity, they come together to support one another, whether it's through financial assistance, emotional encouragement, or simply lending a sympathetic ear. This sense of solidarity fosters a deep sense of belonging and camaraderie within the guild, strengthening the bonds that tie its members together.

Public Agenda

1. To foster and promote interests in the art of leathercraft.
2. To aid and assist its members in the improvement of their skills.
3. To hold contests among the members, such as the annual Tannery Revelry
4. To bring before the membership outstanding craftsmen in the field of leathercraft.
5. To promote the preservation and history of the craft/s.

Assets

The Guild has their main guildhouse based out of Wolfhaven however there are guild chapterhouses in each of the major 5 cities.

History

The origins of the guild can be traced back to the early days of Olumbria, when Wolfhaven was still finding its footing amidst the chaos of a world reborn in fire. In those uncertain times, leatherworking emerged as a vital craft, providing essential goods such as sturdy footwear, durable bags, and protective armor for the populus. 
As demand for leather goods grew, so did the need for organization among the leatherworkers as they spanned across all five major settlements. Thus, the guild was born out of necessity, offering its members a platform for collaboration, mutual support, and the preservation of their craft. What started as a small gathering in a cramped workshop soon blossomed into a thriving community with its own guildhall at the heart of Wolfhaven.
The Leatherworkers Guild quickly gained renown for its commitment to excellence and innovation. Its members were not only skilled artisans but also keen entrepreneurs, constantly seeking new techniques and materials to elevate their craft. They became masters of their trade, honing their skills in leather tanning, stitching, and tooling to create exquisite pieces that were both functional and beautiful.

"Honor the Hide, Celebrate the Craft"

Type

Guild, Craftsmen

Alternative Names

The Hidebound