Handmade—A Family Tradition

There takes a special type of courage and a hefty dose of innate talent to seamlessly transition from one artistic career field to another. And in a time where most people are trading the physical for the digital, choosing speed and immediate satisfaction over thoughtfulness and quality, Clint Wilkinson has made the choice to slow down.

A sixth generation Texan and one man in a long family line of cowboys, artisans, and American pioneers, Clint is the founder, designer, and head leather maker for Bell and Oak Handcrafted Leather Goods.

Located in Denton, TX and operating within the same custom saddle and leather making shop his grandfather Weldon started some 60 years ago, Clint has continued the family tradition through his company Bell and Oak which launched in April 2014.

As a man who spent the first half of his life as a highly successful graphic designer and entrepreneur, Clint initially found his artistic talents in the world of computer graphic design. And although Clint’s successful venture allowed him to collaborate artistically through his design projects with clients all over the world, the draining work volume and a life dependent on staring into a computer screen eventually took it’s toll. It is a vicious cycle; when one no longer can enjoy the active creation of their craft because success has created confinement and unwanted guidelines. So instead of staying put, Clint smartly realized his soul was in need of change and during this break he began doing leather work more seriously, using the same techniques, tools, and studio space as his grandfather before him. This hiatus from design turned permanent and Bell and Oak Handcrafted Leather Goods was born.

Today Bell and Oak is making an impact each and every day, in Clint and his families life, as well as in the lives of each person who gets to experience the USA Made, hand crafted, artistic products the company creates.

If you’re ever in the Denton, TX area be sure to stop by his grandfather Weldon’s store where Clint can be found working diligently on his next handcrafted creation. You won’t need directions; just look for the store on the corner of Bell and Oak.

To learn more about Bell and Oak.

To purchase Bell and Oak Products.