It’s rare to find a craftsman who can take a half-formed idea and transform it into something solid, lasting, and beautiful. That’s exactly what Cody Hooks of Smokin’ Leather did for me. A few trusted friends pointed me his way, and I approached him with a commission for a leather Bible cover. I wanted a stacked monogram in Hebrew, Greek, and English—a design that held deep personal meaning but was still just a spark in my mind.
A few years ago, I bought a simple leather book cover from a leatherworker in Turkey through Etsy. It was just a piece of leather that wrapped around my Bible, sturdy but plain. I started using it to carry my Bible to church, tucking in Sunday school books, pens, and markers. It served its purpose, but it felt incomplete without a personal touch. I wanted something that reflected my faith and identity, something that would make the cover as meaningful as the Word it protected.
That’s where Cody’s gift shines. He didn’t just execute a design; he understood the heart of my vision. After a few conversations, he crafted a monogram that blends three languages into a single, elegant emblem. It’s strong yet understated, feeling like it was always meant to grace the cover of the book I carry daily.
True craftsmanship demands more than skill—it requires patience, intuition, and the ability to see beyond a customer’s words to their deeper intent. Cody has that rare combination. He turned a piece of leather into a chapter of my story, a cover that feels like an extension of my faith.
I’m proud to carry his work with me. Every time I pick up my Bible, I’m reminded not only of the Word within but also of the hands that shaped its cover. Cody’s artistry has made this cover more than an object—it’s a testament to skill and care.
You can see more of Cody’s incredible work on his Instagram: Smokin’ Leather. Check out his custom wallets for a glimpse of his attention to detail.
That’s it for now. Thanks for showing up. It matters.
Veni, Vidi, Scripsi 