Ten years ago, Toni was about ready to buy an expensive leather cover for her Bullet Journal. Doug looked at it and said, “Wait, I can make that!” Doug has been making journal covers for his journaling-obsessed wife ever since. When Toni decided to start a YouTube channel dedicated to fountain pens, inks, and journaling in 2024, she highlighted her leather covers. Viewers reached out to her asking if Doug would make custom covers for them. As a result, Blackwater Craftworks was born.
Doug and Toni work closely to create unique leather journal covers. Toni gives ideas for designs and color combinations, Doug brings them to life. Every piece is 100% hand-made by Doug. He meticulously hand-stitches every journal cover with preciseness and care. Blackwater Craftworks is based in the Pacific Northwest where Doug designs and builds beautiful leather craftworks and Toni teaches high school art and English when she’s not helping Doug or hanging out on her lidl.doodle YouTube channel.
Why the octopus? Why Blackwater Craftworks?
We share a love and fascination with the octopus. The octopus has a different “brain” in each tentacle, which resonates as we both have so many different interests and talents. The octopus is curious, intellectual, and unique. Along with Doug’s love of cosmic horror, the octopus was a perfect representation for our brand.
In Scottish Gaelic, Douglas means dark water. That is how we came up with Blackwater. Craftworks is all-encompassing and reflects the dedication to our craft.
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