Local leatherworker handmakes leather goods that last
When he’s not renovating camper vans, Josh Oakes creates wallets, bags, belts and more.
May 26, 2021 8:45 AM
Maija Inveiss
Photo by Nikki Hansen
Josh Oakes was pleasantly surprised to be asked about his leather business, Briarwood Leather Co. With millions of views on his YouTube channel, largely dedicated to camper van conversions, he’s typically known for his business transforming vehicles as opposed to his newest venture.
Oakes started revamping vans when he modified his own camper van to travel the country after college. Following the success of one of his videos, he started doing renovations for others as a side hustle while working full time as a videographer for a Madison marketing firm.