Like me, you may have driven past Topanga Creek Outpost at 1273 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd a thousand times and wondered what on earth goes on in there? Well, last week I stopped and went inside. I suggest you do the same.
A hand-painted sign outside saying “Leather Goods” is a bit of a clue, but nothing prepares you for the size and old-world splendor of Chris Kelly’s workshop.
In this interview, Chris shares his journey, philosophy, and thoughts on leatherwork, sustainability, and the future of craftsmanship.
Originally, Chris ran a full-service bicycle shop on the property, selling, repairing, and renting bikes. Then in 2015, he began experimenting with leather goods, starting with collars for his dog Rover, tool bags, wallets, belts, and valet trays.
Leatherwork became an increasingly important part of the business and, after considering selling the shop following the pandemic, he decided instead to focus entirely on leather goods. This proved to be a smart idea.
“Like a lot of people after the pandemic, I just needed to uproot and make a change,” said Chris. “But I am a bad planner of real estate sales. Interest rates went up and I didn’t get any appropriate offers. So I held on and, instead of leaving, I let go of the bicycle side of the business and tripled down on leather goods. All of my businesses have been about pursuing creative endeavors.”
For people who think the only place for leather is on a grazing cow, Chris said, “Leather is a byproduct of the food industry. Animals aren’t killed for their leather. Eighty percent of U.S. food-industry leather that would otherwise be discarded is used to make items that can last for a hundred years. By working with leather, I help ensure this valuable material doesn’t go to waste.”
Chris is passionate about educating customers on sustainability, noting that synthetic alternatives like “pleather” are environmentally damaging, don’t last long as working products and last forever in landfill. He praises younger generations for valuing quality, thrifting, and avoiding fast fashion.
Since the 1800s, leather has been processed and softened using natural and, ironically, vegetarian products. But in the 1960s and ’70s, chromium salts began to be added to make the leather softer and colorful. “But it’s horrible for the environment,” said Chris. “And for leatherworkers exposed to it.”
While the use of chromium salts in leather tanning is not outright banned in the US, it is heavily regulated. “We stay away from that and only work ethically using leather treated naturally with plant-based tannins.”
The tactile quality of leather is essential to Chris’s craft. He often selects hides by feel. Different projects call for different types of leather and he works closely with his three main suppliers to get exactly what he needs.
His work has attracted attention from interior designers, leading to commissions from hotels and resorts, including leather window treatments for a Montana resort, custom folios for a Chicago boutique hotel, and wine list covers for prestigious restaurants— including Topanga’s Inn of the Seventh Ray. Chris also hosts art shows in his workshop’s back room to support local artists and foster community.
Prices range from $12 for a keychain to $2,200 for a bespoke wallet made from Italian leather—the latter rivaling the quality of Hermès products, says Chris, a company he regards highly for the quality of their work and considers comparable to his.
The $2,200 wallet does look and feel fabulous, but Chris’s regular leather wallets at $159 will fit most people’s requirements. Italian leather has a reputation for being the best. Is that reputation justified?
“No,” said Chris. “They just have great marketing.”
During the fires, Chris evacuated quickly but later returned by bicycle to retrieve essential tools and leather that he put in his truck. He applied for and received a $3,000 artisan grant, which he describes as deeply validating —“better than any award”— because it recognized his work as art.
After the fires, Chris launched a program donating a belt to a first responder for every belt sold. Recently, HBO hired his shop to produce belts and bracelets live at a premiere event, allowing attendees to personalize their items. It was a big success Chris hopes to repeat.
The canyon road closure has hurt walk-in traffic, but Chris remains resourceful. He employs five local craftsmen, including apprentices, and welcomes visitors to see the workshop in action.
Chris’s passion for quality, sustainability, and community shines through every project, from handcrafted belts to bespoke interior accents. His workshop is as much a creative hub as it is a business, keeping traditional craftsmanship alive and thriving. topangacreekoutpost.com (310) 455-2111
