Jarrod Allen, graduated from Auburn's industrial design program in 2000, owns and operates his own leather business called Hide and True.
Based out of Birmingham, Allen started his business two years ago after teaching himself the craft of leather-working.
"Growing up, me and my dad would always make things together," Allen said.
Allen said he became inspired to learn how to make his own crafts after admiring the work of an open-source leather worker who posted tutorials online and buying a leather product from a friend.
After mastering the craft, Allen began selling his leather products to friends.
He attributes his success to the skills he learned while at Auburn.
"You leave [the program] feeling empowered and [able] to create," Allen said. "You learn the power of craftsmanship."
As a small business owner, Allen said he does not wish to grow exponentially, but wishes to maintain a small business.
According to Allen, if his business were a tree, he would not want it to be like a pine that is thin, grows quickly and is easily cut down. He wants his business to take on the characteristics of a maple or oak tree that has slow growth, but is strong and solid.
"You turn orders into growth, not trips to the bank," Allen said.
Randall Bartlett, professor of industrial design and interim program chair of industrial design, taught Allen during his time at Auburn and said he believes Allen's work is fresh and rewarding.
"It's a clean and straightforward design," Bartlett said. "It's well-crafted."
Bartlett takes pride in the industrial design program and said he believes the success of Allen and other industrial design graduates inspires his current students by giving them hope and confidence.
"(Industrial design graduates) are the total package," Bartlett said. "We are creative problem-solvers with an understanding of marketing."
According to Bartlett, it is not the norm for industrial design graduates to start their own business, but more of a dream shared by students and professionals alike.
Joey and Megan Adams have been customers of Hide and True for a year and a half and have been pleased with Allen's products and work ethic.
"He provides practical products for every day life and relates to his costumers as if they were old friends," Joey said.
The couple praises Allen's use of genuine material and old-school customer service.
"It is the kind [of customer service] you wish every business would practice," Megan said.
According to Joey, the couple is unable to choose a favorite piece from Hide and True, but, with each order, Allen has continually exceeded their expectations with his talent, classic style and value that is put into each project.
A complete list of Allen's products can be viewed online or ordered at hideandtrue.com.
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