The Craft Behind Timber&Fins: A Look Into the Heart of Our Handmade Products

At Timber&Fins, we believe in creating products that stand the test of time—gear that doesn’t just serve a purpose but carries a story, a history and the promise of quality craftsmanship. Inspired by the tradition and elegance of vintage gear, we craft each item by hand, using the finest materials to ensure they age beautifully and serve you for years to come. Here’s a closer look at the steps that go into creating a Timber&Fins product, and what makes it truly unique.

The Inspiration Behind Timber&Fins

The journey of Timber&Fins began with a simple desire: to create products that would endure. Tired of cheap plastic and foam, I sought to bring back a way of making things that aligned with the values of fly anglers—values rooted in craftsmanship, tradition and connection to the outdoors. The first fly boxes I made were for family members and from there the idea grew. Today, Timber&Fins is a celebration of heirloom-quality gear that feels as timeless as the sport itself.

The Timber&Fins Aesthetic

The aesthetic of Timber&Fins is deeply influenced by the traditions and vintage gear that form the backbone of fly fishing. Our products are designed to connect us with nature, keeping us grounded in the history of the sport. Leather plays a central role in this aesthetic—offering both a tactile and visual connection to the past, while our modern twist ensures that the gear functions as well as it looks.

From Concept to Creation

Creating a new product at Timber&Fins starts with a lot of research—looking through vintage pictures, exploring what’s already on the market, and identifying a need that hasn’t been fully addressed. Once I have a design concept in mind, the process moves into prototyping. I create a first pattern using a drafting program and then refine it over multiple iterations, sometimes needing 3-5 prototypes before we settle on the final design. We’re constantly tinkering and improving our products to make sure they work better, last longer and serve you in the best way possible.

The Materials That Matter

Quality materials are at the heart of everything we do. We use veg-tan full-grain leather, known for its durability and its ability to develop a unique patina over time. Occasionally, we work with rare leathers from tanneries like Horween and Wickett & Craig—some of the last traditional tanneries in America. These materials ensure that every Timber&Fins product is not just functional but heirloom-quality—built to last and to be passed down through generations.

Tools of the Trade

Crafting our products requires a range of tools—from basic knives and hole punches to specialized stitching ponies and edge trimmers. The process is deeply immersive and much like fly tying or fishing itself, it’s easy to get hooked on finding the perfect tool for the job. Whether it’s a new leathercraft tool or an adjustment to an existing one, the search for precision and efficiency can be just as addictive as selecting the right fly or rod. With the right tools and techniques, we ensure every product meets our exacting standards for durability and craftsmanship.

The Handmade Process

Creating a Timber&Fins product is a labor of love. Once the design is finalized, it typically takes 2-4 hours to bring it to life. From cutting the leather to stitching and finishing, every step is done by hand here in Montreal. We believe in keeping production local to maintain the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, which is why we choose not to work with overseas manufacturers. This commitment to handcrafting our gear ensures that every item is built to last and is imbued with the care and attention that makes it truly special.

The Timber&Fins Promise

We’re proud to offer a lifetime warranty on all our products. Leather is incredibly durable, and with a little care—like conditioning—it can last a lifetime. If anything were to happen, our products can be repaired, ensuring that they remain in your hands for years to come. This warranty isn’t just a promise; it’s a reflection of our belief in the quality of our work.

The Final Word

When I send out a finished product, I often imagine the adventures it will accompany its new owner on. One of my favorite parts of the job is receiving pictures from customers of their Timber&Fins gear in the wild—on fishing trips, through the years, becoming part of the story. At Timber&Fins, we want our products to become more than just gear. We want them to be part of your journey, your adventures and the memories you create along the way.

Every product we make is a reflection of our values: quality, craftsmanship, and a commitment to building something that lasts. Whether it’s a fly wallet, reel case, or a custom piece, we hope that when you use your Timber&Fins gear, you feel the same pride and connection to the craft that we do.