A belt maker is someone who makes belts for daily wear, fashion, or specialty use. These belts are often made from either sturdy fabric or leather, though sometimes more exotic materials such as metals and stones could be used as well. A belt may be a standalone product meant to be an accessory or particularly noteworthy addition to another garment, or be created as part of a larger piece of clothing that serves to complete an ensemble. Some clothing designers may sometimes make belts to go with particular pieces they design, or a designer may prefer to specialize and work almost exclusively as a belt maker.
The materials that a belt maker uses in the creation of a belt often have a great deal to do with the purpose of the belt being made. If the belt is meant to be utilitarian, helping the wearer to keep loose or baggy pants up properly, then it would likely be made from leather or hardy fabric. Because of the tendency to use leather, many belt makers must learn to become quite adept at manipulating, shaping, and otherwise working with the rather difficult material. This usually means specialized tools and specific techniques intended for working with leather.
If a belt was intended for more fashionable use, to be a noteworthy accessory or in some way tie an entire outfit together into a single, coherent piece, the material choice may become more exotic. While leather may still be used, it could be adorned with gemstones, or metallic pieces such as studs and spikes to create a punk rock or heavy metal look. Belts can be just as important as any other part of a particular wardrobe and may be greatly manipulated and combined with a variety of textures, shapes, and colors.
Such potential for creativity and the unexpected in design means that a truly great belt maker must often be adept at using a wide variety of materials, techniques, and styles. A belt maker might also learn a great deal about working with metals to create custom belt buckles as well, to add further interest or flair to a piece. Some belt makers will prefer to find specific metal smiths they enjoy working with, and build a long-term relationship with the person to create original pieces of artwork that also happen to serve as a clasp for the belt.
