FOUR ELEMENTS PRESS | Sean | Activity

Sean posted an update in the group Brotherhood of Leather

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:27:48 -0400

Still hoping just to meet some like minded people from every where. There’s always someone who wants to explore or just ask questions.

I am about ready to launch my new website www.custombdsmleatherworks.com. It's op5for viewing but not purchases yet. Feel free to let me know what you honestly think. Take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 08:20:59 -0400

I am about ready to launch my new website http://www.custombdsmleatherworks.com. It’s op5for viewing but not purchases yet. Feel free to let me know what you honestly think.
Take care of yourself and your loved ones.

So, what's new. I have decided work size to open another e-commerce store with a little better name and focus. www.custombdsmleatherworks.com That's why I have not posted the new chapter in my blog about Leather history. I wrote the program for the site and an just working out some bugs. Wishing everyone all the best!

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:31:03 -0400

So, what’s new. I have decided work size to open another e-commerce store with a little better name and focus. http://www.custombdsmleatherworks.com That’s why I have not posted the new chapter in my blog about Leather history. I wrote the program for the site and an just working out some bugs.
Wishing everyone all the best!

The Basics of BDSM Leather - Part 2 The Craft in Action The Craft in Action Leather has been used for hundreds—if not thousands—of years, dating back to the days of early humans. Physical evidence suggests that even cavemen wore garments made from hide. Today, we’ve reached a point in society where nearly 99% of a slaughtered cow is repurposed. From shoes and clothing to seat coverings and even pharmaceuticals, leather and its byproducts sustain modern life. The point here isn’t to lecture—it’s to remember that natural materials still support our everyday existence. And let’s be honest: men in leather are fucking hot. My chosen trade is working with hide within the BDSM and leather communities. I hand-make everything you can imagine within those boundaries—and trust me, some things you probably can’t. My fellow artisans and I all start with the same raw material: leather hides. I stick to four key variables in my process. As I walk you through them, I hope to give you a better understanding of the many differences in leather and why they matter. 1. Type of Leather There are hundreds of types of leather, varying by animal, cut, weight, and tanning process. I won’t bore you, but let’s break down the basics. Animal Source I use exclusively cattle hide—known for its durability and abundance. My hides come from Argentina, where nearly 99% of the animal is repurposed. The list of byproducts is extensive: food, leather goods, gelatin, cosmetics, sutures, soap, and even insulin. 2. Hide Cuts Leather hides can be processed into various cuts, each with its own purpose: • Whole Hide • Sides (2) • Double Shoulder (1) • Single Shoulder (2) • Bend (2) – one side of the hide minus the shoulder and belly • Double Bend (1) • Belly (2) – used for upholstery and garment leather (e.g., chaps and shirts) • Single Butt (2) – mostly used in saddle making The shoulders are ideal for harnesses—they’re the second toughest part of the hide, just behind the butt, which is often too stiff for BDSM gear. Most hand-made equipment uses shoulder cuts for their balance of strength and flexibility. 3. Leather Weight Leather is processed into 16 different weights, ranging from 1 oz to 16 oz. Here’s a quick breakdown: Weight (oz) Common Uses 1–2 oz Mouldings, linings, embossing 3–5 oz Embossing, billfolds, clutches, masks 5–6 oz Small cases, notebook covers 6–7 oz Handbags, camera cases, journals 7–8 oz Narrow belts, knife sheaths, small holsters 8–9 oz Belts, holsters, saddlebags 9–10 oz Heavy holsters, wide belts (1.5"+) I typically use 3–5 oz and 8–9 oz weights for my work. 4. Skiving and Grain Here’s where things get interesting. Leather weight refers to thickness—but hides aren’t uniformly thick. That’s where skiving comes in: a machine evens out the hide to a designated weight. After skiving, you’re left with: • Top-Grain Side – the best cut, smooth and durable • Organ Side – rougher, less refined You can have a shoulder cut in any weight from 1–2 oz to 9–10 oz and beyond. I prefer 7–8 oz or 8–9 oz shoulders, depending on availability. The fur side is smooth after processing; the organ side remains rougher. You get the idea. Processed Leather: The Truth The leftover hide from skiving isn’t wasted. Larger scraps are pressed and textured under heat to create what you see in many commercial products. Technically, it’s still leather—but it’s the cheaper, processed kind. If you see a pebbly surface, that’s processed leather. Then there’s the bottom-tier stuff: scraps ground down, mixed with glue, and pressed into sheets. This is what’s often labeled “Genuine Leather.” Technically accurate, but misleading. At Silver Triangle Leatherworks, I give you my solemn oath: we use only original, Top-Grain leather. You’ll recognize it by its smooth surface and natural imperfections. Every hide has flaws—scars from barbed wire, old brands, or life itself. I love showcasing those scars. They remind me that not even a cow lives a perfect life. Custom Work, Custom Fit I don’t stock products—I stock hides. Every piece is made to order. That allows me to offer custom fits at lower costs than my competitors. A hundred guys might have a 34” chest, but their shoulders and stomachs? All different. Most harnesses can be made in about four hours, like the Master’s Harness. Simpler designs, like the traditional “X,” take about thirty minutes. Women’s Harnesses: A New Frontier If you read my first blog, The Basics of BDSM Leather History, you’ll remember the general origins of modern harnesses. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come—and even more fascinating to explore the rise of women’s harnesses. Here’s what I’ve found: Fashion Journalism & Cultural Commentary • Loomwears: Traces leather breast harnesses from punk rebellion to high fashion, with designers like Alexander McQueen and Rick Owens reimagining them as luxury statements. • Stanford Mint: Highlights harnesses in mainstream fashion—runways, festivals, and pop icons like Taylor Swift. Vogue even offered styling tips to avoid “fashion faux pas.” • Crimson Publishers: Explores leather’s symbolic role in rebellion and counterculture, from protective gear to status-driven fashion. Collage & Visual Culture • Queer and feminist zines: Use harness imagery to explore bodily autonomy, erotic power, and gender subversion. • Pinterest and Tumblr archives: Reveal mixed-media works layering harnesses with lace, chains, and handwritten text—critiquing beauty norms while celebrating kink aesthetics. Timeline of Women’s Harnesses • 1970s–1980s: Punk and glam rock—spiked, chained, rebellious • 1990s: Grunge minimalism—functional, stripped-down styles • 2000s–2010s: High fashion—luxury materials, avant-garde silhouettes • Present: Gender-fluid accessories—seen in streetwear, pop culture, and collage art Part 3:How Custom Leather Gear Fosters Personal Expression in Kink © 2025 Sean Hogan, Owner of Silver Triangle Leatherworks. All rights reserved.

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 18:51:53 -0500

The Basics of BDSM Leather – Part 2
The Craft in Action

The Craft in Action
Leather has been used for hundreds—if not thousands—of years, dating back to the days of early humans. Physical evidence suggests that even cavemen wore garments made from hide. Today, we’ve reached a point in society where nearly 99% of a slaughtered cow is repur…Read More

Until I can figure out how to upload these for convenience, this will have to do. The Basics of BDSM Leather History...Part one. The Basics of BDSM Leather History The history of custom leather gear in kink communities reflects the evolution of culture over time. Leather has been used not only for practical purposes but also as a symbol of identity and expression. It has long been a significant part of the fetish community and remains a vital form of self-expression today. Historically, some believe that modern leather harness designs were inspired by protective leather gear worn centuries ago. Over time, leather has come to represent different roles within BDSM dynamics, such as the distinction between Master and submissive (or slave). One of the most overtly sexual elements in this evolution was the codpiece, which has since influenced the design of the modern jockstrap. Much of leather’s history in BDSM is tied to the post-World War II era, particularly within motorcycle culture. Many returning soldiers—especially gay men—found a sense of brotherhood in motorcycle clubs, where leather served both as protective gear and as a marker of rugged masculinity. One of the earliest intersections of leather and kink was within the Satyrs Motorcycle Club, the first known gay motorcycle club. However, it was preceded by other notable motorcycle clubs, including the Galloping Goose MC (1942), the Boozefighters MC (1946), and the Hells Angels MC (1948). Now, let’s explore the evolution, uniqueness, and craftsmanship of custom leather gear. We’ll examine different styles of BDSM gear, from widely recognized designs to bespoke, handcrafted pieces. While there are roughly ten or so recurring styles in the community, handmade leather gear stands apart from mass-produced alternatives. A hand-crafted piece fosters a deeper personal connection between the wearer and the artisan, strengthening the sense of community within the lifestyle. It’s important to note that BDSM is not exclusive to any single cultural group. While leather has deep roots in the gay community, BDSM itself is a diverse subculture that welcomes people from all walks of life. A single piece of leather does not define or unify the entire community—but the openness, acceptance, and celebration of individuality do. The Rise of the Leather Scene By the 1950’s and 1960’s, cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles became hotspots for the emerging leather scene within the gay community. Leather was not only a fashion choice but also a statement of identity and belonging. In these urban centres, leather bars and clubs became pivotal gathering spaces, offering both a sense of camaraderie and a space for individuals to explore and express their desires. San Francisco, in particular, was central to the growth of the leather scene, with neighbourhoods like the Tenderloin becoming famous for their leather bars. These venues weren’t just places to socialize; they became symbolic of a larger movement toward community-building and self-expression. The Folsom Street Fair, which began in the late 1950’s, would later become a symbol of this vibrant leather and BDSM culture in San Francisco. New York had its own key moments of leather subculture development, with iconic spots like The Mineshaft, a famous BDSM club that opened in the 1970’s. New York also witnessed the rise of important organizations, such as the Ramrod Club, which served as one of the earliest gatherings for gay men into leather and kink culture. These communities nurtured an environment where leather gear became intertwined with the broader sexual liberation movement, giving rise to symbols of masculinity, power, and dominance. (About the image, see footnote #1) By the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, Los Angeles saw the founding of significant leather clubs, including the Satyrs Motorcycle Club, which helped blend the worlds of motorcycling, leather, and kink. As the first gay motorcycle club, the Satyrs were crucial in solidifying leather's role as a symbol of rebellion, self-empowerment, and identity. This period also witnessed the creation of a specific “leather code,” where men, primarily from the gay community, wore leather to signify their roles in BDSM dynamics—dominants, submissive’s, and everything in between. This code also had subtle variations to differentiate between levels of experience or status in the c in I seeommunity, which helped define how individuals identified themselves in the broader kink world. Leather was becoming not just about physical appearance but also about ritual, role-play, and sexual exploration. The 1970’s also saw the emergence of leather contests and events like International Mr. Leather (IML) in 1979, which gave the leather community a platform for visibility and celebration of their identity. Tom of Finland and His Impact Tom of Finland, born Touko Laaksonen, was a Finnish artist whose stylized drawings of muscular, hyper-masculine men in leather outfits became one of the most recognizable symbols within the gay community and, by extension, the leather scene. His depictions of men in leather, often involved in intimate, power-exchanging scenarios, reinforced the connection between leather and sexual freedom, strength, and confidence. The Leather Aesthetic: Tom of Finland's work helped solidify leather as not just a practical garment but as a symbol of eroticism and identity. His illustrations often featured men wearing leather jackets, pants, and harnesses—items that would later become staples in BDSM fashion. His style made leather synonymous with raw, unapologetic masculinity, which was revolutionary at the time. Sexual Liberation & Pride: Tom of Finland's art was groundbreaking because it not only depicted gay men as strong and proud but also embraced aspects of kink that had often been marginalized. His art encouraged people to embrace their sexual desires, regardless of societal taboos, and offered a form of empowerment and pride to gay men, especially those within the leather and BDSM communities. Cultural Icon: Over time, Tom of Finland's work transcended the art world and became a cultural icon. His designs became a symbol of defiance, individualism, and liberation, aligning perfectly with the ethos of the BDSM and leather scenes. Leather bars, clubs, and events often adopted imagery inspired by his work, making his contribution to the leather culture monumental. Pop Culture and Leather's Mainstream Influence While Tom of Finland's art was integral to the leather community’s development, pop culture also played a significant role in bringing leather gear and BDSM aesthetics into the wider public consciousness. Movies and TV Shows: In the 1980’s and 1990’s, films like The Matrix (1999), with its iconic leather trench coats, and Pulp Fiction (1994), which featured characters sporting leather jackets and outfits, showcased leather as a symbol of power, rebellion, and coolness. These representations helped to mainstream the idea of leather as a fashion statement that could convey dominance and confidence, traits that are central to the BDSM lifestyle. Fashion Industry Influence: As BDSM and leather culture became more visible, designers and brands began incorporating leather elements into their mainstream collections. Designers like Jean-Paul Gaultier, Vivienne Westwood, and later, brands like Balenciaga, introduced leather clothing into their runway shows, often drawing on the rebellious, subversive elements of the leather scene. This contributed to the glamorization and mainstream acceptance of leather as not only functional but also chic and stylish. Music and Pop Icons: Musicians, especially in punk and rock genres, have long embraced leather as part of their aesthetic. Icons like Iggy Pop, The Ramones, and David Bowie adopted leather jackets and outfits as part of their stage persona, influencing how people perceived leather in pop culture. The punk scene in particular adopted leather as a symbol of rebellion and anti-establishment sentiment, aligning with the BDSM and kink cultures that also valued individuality and resistance to social norms. BDSM & Leather in Mainstream Media: In recent years, the representation of BDSM and leather in mainstream media has expanded, thanks in part to films like Fifty Shades of Grey (2015), which brought elements of BDSM into the public eye. While the film faced criticism from some within the BDSM community for its portrayal of certain aspects, it still sparked interest in kink culture, leading more people to explore and appreciate the diversity and richness of the leather and BDSM communities Why the Topic is Interesting to Me. Not long after I came out in the late 80’s I became intertwined into the Leather Community of Winnipeg, Manitoba. I was so enthralled I decided to join a Leather Master and his boyfriend in real life as their slave. My sexual experience was pretty much zero, but something about the look, the smell, and the masculinity that came with it was intoxicating. It was not until later I learned of how close knit and tight the community was. I learned from the ground up with no prejudice regarding the sub-culture of leather, and quickly began my then introduction to the BDSM culture. With the exception of a few friends I have, I have never felt such camaraderie within a group of men. Men from every walk of life you could imagine. There were the jocks from High School, the nerds, Doctors and Lawyers, what mattered what was inside you, not the outside. The most impressive and intrigueing thing was how the love of the feel, the love of the look, the smell or the history of the values shared between the men of the Leather Community I will never know. But I for the life of me can not remember a single huge argument between the Master’s of my community. Us boy’s and slave’s were a different matter all together, we could and did fight over whom had the most power anoungst the rest of us, or who had the right to be chosen by who’s Master or Daddy. But even in our darkest moments, the Master’s and Daddies ruled and showed us that who did what with whom was never an issue. The most important issue was that we were all part of a brotherhood but, if we can’t get along with each other in the long run. Our culture will never survive. The Master’s and Daddy’s taught us that our culture’s survival depends on unity, but also in the tangible ties we forge-like the leather we wear. “Next, I’ll explore how leather became the material of choice in fetish culture—its origins, its evolution, and the craft that keeps it alive.” #1 - About the Image This painting is a mural by Dom Orejudos, who worked under the pseudonym Etienne. Created for the Gold Coast bar in Chicago — which Orejudos co-founded — the mural advertises “Leather Night” and stands as a visual tribute to one of the most iconic spaces in American leather history. The Gold Coast is widely recognized as the first leather bar in the United States, opening in 1958 and setting the tone for decades of unapologetic masculinity, community, and kink-positive culture. Orejudos was a towering figure in the LGBTQ community, known for his bold illustrations and writings that helped define and popularize the leather subculture from the 1960s through the 1980s. His work wasn’t just erotic — it was cultural, political, and deeply personal. © 2025 Sean Hogan, Owner of Silver Triangle Leatherworks. All rights reserved.

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 07:57:04 -0500

Until I can figure out how to upload these for convenience, this will have to do.
The Basics of BDSM Leather History…Part one.

The Basics of BDSM Leather History
The history of custom leather gear in kink communities reflects the evolution of culture over time. Leather has been used not only for practical purposes but also as a symbol of…Read More

Sean joined the group LGBTQ+ Headlines

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:27:22 -0500

My question is, can I only post links to my writings? Or do people upload them for others too read for free? Thanks.

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:10:59 -0500

My question is, can I only post links to my writings? Or do people upload them for others too read for free?
Thanks.

I began by writing what I thought of at the time a single blog. It has morphed way beyond that and is becoming a series of blogs that when complete I will try and publish together in one book. It started with an Idea about where the community I have spent the last 40 years with come from, and why. I thought I could do "The Basics of BDSM Leather', in one shot, I'd fulfilled my duties to initiating a Blog for my website. Then I thought I could write about where I fit in as a Leather Master, and yes I mean that in a sexual sense but literally as well. You see, I make the Leather Gear that adorn most members of my community. I make the harnesses, the jock straps, wristbands, armbands, all the way through the adornments up to cock rings and beyond. So part 2 became an overview on my source material, leather. But it raised more questions than I have answers too. And that is was started part 3. "The Who, What, Where, Why, When and How of Leather. I take you back too approximately 2000 BCE, and bring you forward threw time to the present. I am not a writer, which you will come to understand when you see my structure. I also only allow for spelling, punctuation ang grammar corrections of my work, because it loses my voice, and if I can not hear me say the sentence, it's not me.. I hop you enjoy reading them and I will try to answer any questions if they come up.

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:54:59 -0500

I began by writing what I thought of at the time a single blog. It has morphed way beyond that and is becoming a series of blogs that when complete I will try and publish together in one book.
It started with an Idea about where the community I have spent the last 40 years with come from, and why.
I thought I could do “The Basics of BDSM…Read More