Inside Mack Provisions: Baseball Gloves, Canvas, and Craft
Inside Mack Provisions: Craftsmanship Beyond the FieldIn this episode of The Leather Shop, Matt Roach is joined by KC of Mack Provisions, a handmade baseball glove company rooted in old-school leatherworking and modern craftsmanship. From glove relacing as a teenager to launching a full-time custom glove brand, KC shares his journey, philosophy, and what makes his gloves truly unique.Whether you're a leatherworker, player, or lover of timeless design, this is your behind-the-scenes pass into glove-making at its finest.🔍 Episode HighlightsWhy Chrome-Tanned Leather Reigns SupremeHow KC Learned Craftsmanship in an Alaskan Tent ShopThe Horween Leather AdvantageCanvas vs. Leather: What You Need to KnowThe Great Glove Break-In DebateTools of the Trade: Cylinder Arm Machines, Tex 135 Thread, and MoreWhy Suede Welting is Making a ComebackAbout KC & Mack ProvisionsKC started relacing gloves for teammates at age 13. After stints in Alaska sewing canvas tents and marine gear, he transitioned into building premium handmade baseball gloves using materials like Horween’s Ball Glove X leather, real shearling padding, and custom welting techniques.His approach blends nostalgia with durability, favoring rugged, vintage aesthetics and minimal synthetic components. Each glove is made to order, emphasizing craftsmanship over mass production.📷 Follow KC on Instagram: @mackprovisionsCraft Tips from the EpisodeThe Truth About Glove Construction“Sewing a baseball glove is the hardest thing I’ve ever sewn—and I’ve worked on yachts, tents, and boat canvas.” – KCWhy Thread and Machine Choice MatterUse UV-rated nylon thread like Tex 135, and invest in a cylinder arm machine for maximum control.Break-in MethodsSkip the water dunk. Use a mallet and play catch for best results—especially when using wool padding.Related Episodes🎙️ How Scott Makes Gloves: The Deep Craft of Baseball LeatherFollow & SubscribeStay up to date with new episodes, behind-the-scenes posts, and leather drops:🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify📷 Follow us on Instagram & TikTok🌐 Visit leathershoppod.com for more📌 Know someone obsessed with baseball or handmade goods? Share this episode!Support us on Patreon