Al Shelton

Al Shelton (June 27, 1920 – March 22, 2016) established the reputation of “Cowboy Artist to the Stars”,[1] creating custom-crafted leatherwork embossed with iconic cowpoke imagery in his workshop on Ventura Boulevard.

[1][2][4] Al Shelton's interest in leather carving began while working as a cowboy in his teens during the tail end of the depression.

As his business evolved, he was commissioned to design several patterns and tools for Craftool[6] and began teaching classes as the Pacific Arts and Crafts.

[7] Following a five-year stint working with Nudie Cohn, Shelton set up his own shop just as the TV westerns were taking off.

[1][2] In 2004, Shelton's industry contributions were recognized with an Al Stohlman Award for Achievement in Leathercraft.