KC Leatherwerks
In 1973 John and Diane Corey started an adventure that has streched three decades and led them to travel the better part of the western hemisphere. The first years were spent living in a school bus traveling around working leather and selling their craft.
These years were explorations, seeking out other leather workers and developing a style that became uniquely "Troll & Co." This was a name that became synonomous with quality custom leather work. For most of the 1970's, "Troll & Co." operated a shop on Cumberland Ave., the main drag that runs through the University of Tennessee campus. During that time an apprentice program was instituted.
Even though many of those apprentices went on to receive degrees from the University, several are still creating a livelihood from knowledge attained during that program. The quality of their work led to a stint during the 80's running the leather shop at Silver Dollar City/Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Amid the entertainment, education of the medium was the heart and soul of the daily interaction. The 90's led way for a new adventure. "The Leathercrafter" in Pigeon Forge, became a destination stop. It functioned as a leather gallery showcasing some of the world's best leather art and featured visiting craftspersons. This added dimension to their own work. In 1999, Tandy Leather in Knoxville, Tennessee, was purchased, and KC Leatherwerks was created. Applying their own brand of retailing, custom work, and repairs, the supply business was a natural winning combination. John is no longer with us,
but Diane captains the helm, keeping in mind all the while the elements of a successful business...price, quality, selection, knowledge, and a smile.
