FAQ's and Services Offered

Location: 7358 Manchester Rd. | Maplewood, MO 63143 | 314-932-1475
Store Hours: Monday - Friday 10-5 | Saturday 10-4

Important Announcement and BIG CHANGE regarding our Services
As of January 31, 2023 Sole Survivor is not taking on any repairs, restoration, or custom projects with one exception - please continue to bring your Sole Survivor made leather goods to us as repairs are needed.

Why are you no longer taking custom or restoration jobs?
The reason for discontinuing other projects is because Steve's time (our lead leather artisan) and Kay's time (Sole Survivor owner and skilled leather artisan) will be fully booked with teaching & training the next generation of family leather artisans and preparing them to take over in the coming years. This is a process that does not happen overnight. We expect to spend the next 5+ years deepening the skills and knowledge of these others so that they will be able to continue making a living at the craft of designing and making leather goods and so carry on the Sole Survivor legacy for another 40 years!
Can I place a custom order with Sole Survivor?
We are unable to take any custom orders except for belts - see next question.
Can I place a custom belt order with Sole Survivor?
Yes. If you have a special buckle and need a belt made, we would love to help with that! Please come in WITH your buckle and an idea of what you are looking for. If we don't have something in stock that works, we can discuss making one to order. You typically do NOT need an appointment for custom belts but please call ahead to let us know when you are coming so that someone with the skills to take your order can be prepared to meet with you! Special order belts start at $98.
NOTE: We do not make name belts or tooled belts to order.
Do you do any other custom work?
No, we do not. We are happy to try to help you find something to suit your needs from our items in stock.
What about monogramming?
Sole Survivor offers free hot stamp monogramming services on items that we make. We cannot offer monogramming on items purchased elsewhere.
Does Sole Survivor repair & clean leather coats or jackets?
For cleaning and repair services to your suede or leather jackets & coats, we refer you to https://ramleather.com
(If you purchased your leather jacket from Sole Survivor and need repair services, stop in and let us take a look before you take it somewhere else)
Can Sole Survivor items be shipped?
Yes, we can ship items you purchase in our store to any U.S. address. Cost usually ranges from $9 for small items to $25 for larger items like satchels/briefcases.
Which items in the shop are made by Sole Survivor?
All of our leather goods (with the exception of jackets, skirts, and gloves) are designed and made in the store's workshop by Steve & Kay and Annie, and one apprentice/assistant.
Who designs Sole Survivor Leather goods?
All of our belts, bags, wallets and other accessories are designed in house - sometimes collectively and sometimes individually - by family members, Steve, Kay & Annie Rye. We start with a sketch. Then make the pattern. Next we consider leather and hardware. And finally we make the item. Throughout this process, there are many questions to consider regarding form and function. It typically takes 2-3 weeks of conversations, sketches and sampling before we finally make the prototype. Learn more about our process by visiting the Artisan Notes Page
Where are Sole Survivor's leather jackets & gloves made?
Sole Survivor does not make the leather jackets and gloves in house - they are made overseas by experienced manufacturers. As leather experts, we are very pleased with the quality of the leather and hardware used, as well as the unique and fashionable designs.
How do I take care of my new Sole Survivor Leather item?
Many of our leathers need little care or attention and can be wiped with a slightly damp cotton cloth. Others benefit from a monthly or bimonthly light cleaning and conditioning. Sole Survivor rarely recommends oil or saddle soap. If you are in doubt, we are happy to advise. Bring your leather item in and Steve or Kay will be happy to take a look.
Do you sell leather or scraps? YES! Once a year we have a Scrap & Hide Sale. Our next Leather Scrap and Hide Sale will take place in April 2023. CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW THE EVENT PAGE and say you'll come!
Does Sole Survivor buy used or vintage leather coats and garments?
YES! We are interested in your leather garments, coats and jackets that are in good, saleable condition. If you have items for sale, please send a message through our contact page by clicking here.
What about classes?
Sole Survivor does not offer classes, but if you have questions about leathercraft or a leather project you are working on, give us a call or stop in on a Saturday with your project and/or questions and we will be happy to advise.
I heard you are moving - is that true?
YES - Sole Survivor DID move but NOT FAR. We are still in Maplewood on Manchester Road. We love it here - we just needed a bigger workspace to accommodate 4 leather artisans. Now you can find us on the south side of Manchester at 7358 Manchester next door to @lacosechacoffee and @greatharvest_maplewood.
Where can I park in Maplewood?
Free parking is available in the parking lot across the street as well as on Manchester and also behind the building off Marietta.