Our Story
Leather Machine Company started in 2009 with a simple mission: build high-quality machines, put customers first, and create a company grounded in trust, service, and genuine relationships. What began in a small garage has grown into a respected name in the leatherworking industry, built on years of hands-on experience and a commitment to supporting makers at every level.
Today, Leather Machine Company is led by owner David Spiegel, who continues the company’s dedication to quality craftsmanship, reliable equipment, and exceptional customer support. Our team brings decades of experience in leatherworking, industrial sewing machines, and small business operations, giving us a deep understanding of the tools and support our customers rely on every day.
We stand behind our products with a limited lifetime warranty, and we’re here to support you long after your purchase. At the end of the day, we’re people who love what we do and the community we serve.
Our Leadership
David Spiegel
Owner
David joined Leather Machine Company in 2011 and quickly became a trusted part of the organization, helping shape the company into the respected industry leader it is today. Starting in a hands-on support role, he gained deep firsthand knowledge of the business by learning every aspect of its operations from the ground up.
During periods of major change and growth, David helped guide the company with steadiness, compassion, and vision—strengthening the organization, supporting the team, and positioning Leather Machine Company for continued long-term success.
Heather Bradt-Kingsley
General Manager
Heather Bradt-Kingsley is often the friendly voice you hear when you call Leather Machine Company. With roots in the leather industry dating back to 2006, Heather brings hands-on experience across leather production, tanneries, and industrial sewing machines. Her passion for craftsmanship led her to specialize in Cobra machines, where she built a strong partnership with owner David Spiegel and became part of the Leather Machine family long before joining the team in person.
In a leap of faith, Heather relocated from Missouri to California with her children to help lead the company’s day-to-day operations. Today, she’s proud to call Leather Machine Company home—bringing heart, expertise, and a genuine commitment to serving customers and supporting the community the company has grown around.
Our Technical Team
Tony
I started my adventure with sewing machines when my dad would fix them by hand right in our home. He began teaching me small tricks when I was just 6 years old, and I always enjoyed watching him work on those machines every day. Then one exciting day, I moved to the United States and got to work with Juki Sewing Machines! My very first machine was a buttonhole and blight stitch machine, and my boss was super helpful, teaching me so much as I grew in my skills!
About 20 years later, I joined the team at Brother Sewing Machines, and guess what? My coworker was Steve! Fast forward a few years, and I bumped into Steve again when I started working at Artisan. It was such a fun surprise! That’s when we had the brilliant idea to start our own sewing machine company together, realizing we had followed each other from job to job without even knowing it. Before long, we were busy building machines in my garage, and we called our little venture Cobra.
Today, we’re proud to be known as Leather Machine Company, home of the Cobra!
I’m excited to share that I’ve become a master mechanic! I work on everything from tiny engines to massive industrial machines. I really feel like I’ve made my dad proud by following in his footsteps!
Raymond
I like to think of myself as the sous chef of sewing machines — always ready to jump in and assist on any machine at a moment’s notice, no matter how busy the day gets. I take real pride in being someone the team can count on when things need to move quickly and smoothly.
Over the years, I’ve learned to work on everything from Class 4s and Flatbeds to AK20s and Clickers, while also handling incoming calls and customer inquiries. I’m always willing to step in wherever I’m needed to help keep operations running efficiently and to support my coworkers however I can. For me, teamwork here isn’t just part of the job — it’s something I take pride in building every day.
Shilyn
Hi my name is Shilyn, or better known by customers by Shi! Ive been working at Leather Machine Company for over 7 years! I was a Junior in highschool during Covid-19 and found myself bored at home after my school work was done, and my mother, who is the famed Heather who answers your calls, informed me that they needed someone to help out in the back to build burnishers! From my first day, I got a little too curious, and I never left!
My great grandmother was a steamstress and made all our clothing and blankets, I have too many memories of stepping on needles as a child, and now I get to put them inside Class 26s decades later! Boy how time flies!
I am the Operations Manager and every time you call in with questions about your class 26 machine, youre always going to get me! On top of that huge accomplishment, i also build petastools, tabletops, AK-20 Plus Strap Cutters, most of the machines accessories, burnishers, work platforms, all UPS order, I go to all the shows, and occasionally I work in the office! Im a busy busy woman, who loves to dabble in all things that Leather Machine has to offer!
Raffie
Inspired by his father’s hand-stitching hobby, he didn’t step into the field until his early 40s—but quickly found his stride. In 2003, he joined Artisan, where a simple curiosity turned into a passion. Later, he happily followed a group of trusted coworkers to his current role, where that same sense of teamwork made the transition feel natural.
He enjoys the work most for the variety—each machine brings a new challenge, and he takes pride in learning something new every day.
Paul
Paul joined LMC eight years ago and quickly became a valued part of the team. He knows our Class 14 splitting machines inside and out and is always happy to lend a hand or share his expertise.
You’ll also find Paul at industry trade shows as our friendly go-to coordinator, helping things run smoothly and making visitors feel welcome.
Marco
Marco Renteria is committed to continuous learning and personal growth. After advancing to the highest level available with his previous employer, he returned to school to earn his Certificate in Supply Chain Management and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. His dedication to developing both professionally and personally reflects the same work ethic he brings to Leather Machine every day.
Outside of work, Marco is passionate about craftsmanship and hands-on projects. A lifelong automotive enthusiast, he enjoys restoring classic vehicles, especially mini trucks, and has experience in leather tooling, which began with creating his own custom leather belt. Whether he’s working on a project, enjoying good food and music, catching a Dodgers game, or off-roading, Marco values quality, creativity, and attention to detail in everything he does.