J and S Gier, Artificers

09/03/2026

A few horn lucettes offered with various polychrome engravings # jandsgier

09/02/2026

Theres always a need for good “stuff holders” that can be left in view at historical events—small utensils, toiletries, shaving supplies, gun-cleaning necessities, a sewing kit, or whatever other odds and ends need a home.

This is a simple, functional piece made for just that purpose. It measures 3.5” x 8”, with a flap that is slightly wider. It’s constructed from substantial 10 oz. leather—thick, sturdy, and built to take some abuse while keeping your essentials close at hand. The ends are sewn on using the appropriate box stitch so that there is no interior wear. Even the rope covered handle is sporty.

The button closure features a signed brass button by Richard Lanni, adding a bit of character to an otherwise straightforward working piece.

So, what would you carry in it?

08/31/2026

A moderate (or medium) sized portmanteau, measuring 18” x 6”, has just been completed and is currently available.

Made from substantial 10-ounce vegetable-tanned leather, this portmanteau has been carefully “checked,” or “scored”, and it has beveled and burnished edges. And check out that shine! That comes from the hand-burnished edges and a whole lot of attention to detail.

It starts out in its natural state as a beautiful, warm leather color, but like all good vegetable-tanned leather, it will darken naturally with time and use. Give it some extended time in the sunlight and it will develop a wonderful “sunburn” effect, deepening into an even richer, warmer color.

The ends are double-thick and have been stitched in using the proper box stitch, keeping the stitching on the exterior so there are no interior stitches to rub, catch, or wear out with use. The handle features a traditional baseball stitch and is constructed around a leather-covered h**p rope for strength and comfort.

It’s a practical piece, built to be used and carried—not simply admired.

This one will be traveling with us to the Fair Lawn 18th Century Trades Fair in Virginia this upcoming weekend, where it will be available in person.

We’re looking forward to a grand time at Fair Lawn!

08/28/2026

☠️ A Pirate’s Treasure, Fit for the Finest Privateer ⚓️

Every pirate worth his salt needs a proper way to carry his provisions—and this custom piece was built with exactly that in mind.

Commissioned for a Florida pirate, this leather-covered case was designed from the ground up to his specifications. From the black and ox blood red leather, to the placement and color of every tack, to the rich red wool interior, every detail was chosen specifically for this commission.

Inside, it carries an extraordinary collection of handcrafted vessels: horn cups with pewter rims by Chris Helsel, alongside hand-blown case bottles by Phil Gilson, each nestled securely into its own fitted compartment.

The exterior is heavily studded with pewter-colored tacks in two sizes with quilted leather work, scalloped edging, a hand fabricated lock, and hand forged handle giving it just the right combination of pirate swagger and refined craftsmanship.

This isn’t simply a case for carrying a few necessities. It’s a piece of functional art—a pirate’s treasure chest for the treasures he carries within.

🏴‍☠️ Custom made by J&S Gier Artificers
⚓ Horn cups with pewter rims — Helsel
🍾 Hand-blown case bottles — Phil Gilson

Made to order. Made to be carried. Made to be worthy of the adventure.

08/21/2026

Based on Plate 42 in Grant’s book, this pouch takes the “hairy” factor to another level.

Strategically placed cowhide maximizes the natural character of the hide while allowing its unique texture to take center stage. Measuring 9” × 7”, the pouch features a back of luscious bark-tanned leather from Neanderthal Leader.

The scalloped binding is crafted from refined calf leather, with a generous interior pocket finished with matching binding. Delicate 9-stitches-per-inch topstitching accents both the flap and exterior seam, adding a refined touch to the overall character of the pouch.

The buckle is cast from an original and is a showpiece in its own right, featuring a rope pattern on both the front and back. Phenomenal craftsmanship and detail.

But don’t let its refined appearance fool you—this pouch is made to be used. Classy, traditional, rugged, and completely one of a kind.

08/20/2026

Here’s a few big pictures of the small countdown pics

08/14/2026

08/13/2026

This is a BEAST!

It started as a massive deer hide, skillfully tanned with chestnuts by Neanderthal Nonsense to create an outstanding bark-tanned hide. It has been waiting for the right project—and this is it!

Measuring 13” x 13”, this is one of the larger bags I’ve made, with a generous graduated gusset. The exterior is full of character, with natural texture that includes a small repaired hole, scars, bug bites, and interesting ridges.

Because of its size, I chose this leather not only for its aesthetics but for its durability. It is thick, tough, and built to handle some serious use.

The seams and flap are graced with lots of hand-cut, gnarled fringe, and there’s a generous interior pocket for added function. Call it a messenger bag, call it a possibles bag, call it whatever you want because it is extremely easy versatile

This one is ready to make its debut at the Contemporary Longrifle Association show this weekend.

Come check out this BEAST for yourself—you really need to see the hide and all its character in person!

08/13/2026

Last day before the big show . Are all
Of your projects completed?