Art On Leather from Artist Karl
Testimonials from Customers
I had long had aspirations to get a tribute to guitarist Steve Clark painted on the back of a leather jacket.
Karl was simply brilliant at bringing that aspiration into reality. The quality of the painting is clear for everyone to see, it is frankly breathtaking and captures the essence of the original photograph the tribute is based upon completely.
Karl instinctly knew how to augment the detail for the jacket, it was his idea to add the signature and that gave me the idea to add Steve's, sadly too-short, lifespan.
The whole process was simple, we communicated by email with super-fast responses and once the painting was under-way I was sent regular updates of the creation evolving. My input was minimal, but was happily received and acted on.
I cannot fully express how delighted I am with my jacket, everyone who sees it admires and covets it! The service I received from Karl and the value for money were absolutely second to none.
Justin South
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Testimonial written 18 October 2024
Jacket painted mid June 2024
Today I received my finished jacket from Karl at Art on Leather, this is a fantastic painting of my favourite character from one of my favourite films.
I discussed with Karl what I wanted, he sent me some drawings to approve/choose from which I did.
Jacket was sent to Karl and he got right to work keeping me updated every step of the way.
I couldn't be happier, the result is phenominal and I was happy with the price.
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If you don't treat yourself to Karl's work you are missing out.
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Phil Rawlings (2nd Royal Tank Regiment Veteran)
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Testimonial written 22 August 2024
Jacket painted mid August 2024
If you are looking for someone to put artwork on a jacket, Karl is the one.
I asked for specific work and Karl produced for me the best, it’s outstanding.
A very professional service in my opinion.
2nd to none.
Steve Potter Essex
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Testimonial written 8 August 2024
Jacket painted 1 August 2024
Having found Karl’s website on line, I knew I had to make an appointment to go and meet him with an idea I had in my mind.
I duly arrived, along with my leather waistcoat, a pair of my leather riding boots and spurs.
Karl is extremely professional in his manner, he discussed my ideas with me, explaining the process every step of the way, how he would paint the design onto the leather and then seal the finished piece.
Karl kept me informed along the way, sending pictures via email, asking if I wanted anything altering or changing the design.
What can I say! The finishing artwork on my waistcoat was ready for collection, it was far beyond my expectations! Looking amazing in the flesh, the way Karl had displayed it for me to see, l am more than pleased to say the least!
No doubt I shall be buying another waistcoat, I’ve already got a few ideas for the next project!
I would certainly not hesitate recommending Karl to anyone who is looking for a unique, bespoke piece of artwork that you can wear! He is definitely the man to go to!
Trace.
Gloucestershire
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Testimonial written 2 November 2023
Waistcoat painted September/October 2023
I purchased my G2 flying jacket from America a while ago and started researching WW2 nose art.
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After much searching I eventually pieced together the artwork from various designs that I wanted on the jacket, so all I needed now was someone to bring it to life…….
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Again, after much searching I came across Karl’s website and at that point the search was over.
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His artwork was truly amazing and I knew that although my chosen design was not the most intricate, it could easily go wrong if not done properly.
Karl and myself tweaked the design until we were both happy and then I let him work his magic. Karl sent daily updates and photos of his progress, I was truly amazed at how quickly it all came together.
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Karl was a joy to work with and he was more than happy to accommodate my adjustments.
Once the artwork was complete I visited Karl at his studio for the big unveiling and I was blown away with the end result.
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I cannot thank you enough for bringing my design to reality Karl and I cannot recommend him enough.
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Be under no doubt, if you want a stunning piece of artwork and a hassle free process then Karl is the man for the job.
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JL, Scotland.
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Testimonial written 31 March 2023
Jacket painted February/March 2023
“Many thanks Karl for a great job. It will be a family treasure and will be passed down to the next generation......... eventually.”
Customer in Wales
Testimonial given August 2022
Before - much used and loved - but very faded. Originally decorated many many years ago. A leather topped table handed down through the generations and now sadly showing its age and losing the impact of the original design.
After - restored and embellished with the customers' requirements. Foxgloves, Love in the Mist, Poppies, robin and a tiny ladybird were added to enhance and bring the design to a colourful display. Totally unique and ready for generations to come.
I have numerous jackets that match my different motorbikes including a vintage leather that I’ve been wanting to do something special and unique with. The original idea initially came from a friend who had her jacket painted by an artist many years ago and had prized that jacket ever since.
With that in mind, I started Googling and quickly came across Karl’s website where I spent hours looking at the different pieces of artwork.
An original piece of artwork was definitely what I wanted but then the question was, off what?
The last idea came when the local bike group produced a new logo ‘established 1960’ which was when I decided I wanted something that echo’d the Kings Road cool of that ‘top up’ time.
I had the perfect picture and, with the idea of combining it with the logo, contacted Karl who was fantastic but pointed out the original idea didn’t work but between us we then came up with a new idea that we thought would.
The process of putting the vision into reality and watching the painting was fascinating as Karl sent pictures every day as the painting formed.
The result is everything I had hoped for and more. My skeptical wife was instantly converted when she saw the finished jacket and the local motorcycle group instantly made a picture of the jacket the header of their Facebook page.
If you want something special and unique to you, then I can’t recommend Karl enough, and by bringing you into the process of creating that art it enhances the entire experience
Dave, Sussex
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Testimonial written: 26 June 2022
Jacket painted: mid/end May 2022
I came across artist Karl by doing a web search for a leather painting artist. I saw some of the work he had done on leather jackets & I was amazed at the quality & detail of many of his pieces so I went ahead & commissioned Artist Karl to paint an image I had chosen on my leather breast wallet.
We agreed on a fair price. Which was worth every single penny.
Once the work had begun I received daily progress updates from start to finish. The turn around was quick. I received my artwork yesterday via Royal Mail special delivery. It was beautiful! Stunning as a matter of fact. Artist Karl created a reality of Everything I visioned & wanted. The attention to detail is second to none & The quality of workmanship is truly amazing. The colours were so vibrant & vivid, it really brought my leather wallet to life.
I would highly recommend commissioning this Artist & I will be looking to have more art/work done in the near future. Very happy client!
Thanks again Karl.
I.S.C
Testimonial written: 16 June 2022
Artwork created: early/mid June 2022
Where can I start with how amazing Karl is?
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I've always wanted a nose art pin up on a flying jacket.
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After eventually finding the right image I found Karl's website, that was more than enough for me to contact him.
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He was an absolute Gentleman from the beginning.
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Sent pictures of a mock up of what it would look like.
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Unfortunately and with no disrespect, the original artist wasn't in Karl's league.
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So I asked Karl to paint his version of the pin up. After waiving the 14 day cooling off period, Karl sent picture updates every day.
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It the most beautiful painting I've ever seen.
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I can't recommend Karl enough.
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He's patient, kind, and an amazing artist.
Thank you my Friend.
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Gary M
North East England
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Testimonial written 12 November 2021
Jacket painted October/November 2021
Motorcycle trips and concert going are my passion. When I do something, I'm all the way.
When I saw Karl's art, I had to have it. I contacted Karl with my vision for my Schott Perfecto jacket, but unfortunately, at these times, international shipping is a nightmare. Prior to finding his work on the internet, I had been in a bad motorcycle accident. The deer, my bike and myself were all very lucky to survive.
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Still on crutches, my cousin and I flew to the UK for an epic trip. Why? Because Karls work is worth it!
We had an awesome time and I have the jacket of my dreams! Karl was so kind and went all out with our timeline. I now have the jacket back in Canada. With it, I have epic memories of how it came about and of Karl.
Thank you,
Chris
Canada
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Testimonial written 2 Nov 2021
Jacket painted October 2021
“After seeing examples of Karl’s fantastic artwork, I wondered if he’d be able to paint on my horse’s tack as when I’m jumping I need to remember to look up.
Karl said it would not be a problem, even though my tack has been used for years and isn’t new.
We discussed my needs and I sent the breastplate in the post. He sent me a photo of an example and we took it from there.
Karl produced EXACTLY what I had in mind and in the colours I wanted. He also sent me work in progress shots.
I am absolutely made up with the result! The artwork is spot on; not to mention hard wearing.
Even though my tack is used daily and cleaned regularly, I know the artwork won’t diminish.
No excuse not to keep those eyes up now! Thanks Karl, great job with a super speedy return."
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Testimonial written 8 July 2021
BB Lancashire
I can't recommend Karl enough for his work.
He keeps you updated through the whole process, if you give him a call to discuss anything he takes the time to get the design just the way you want it.
A pure gentleman with a fantastic talent.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Rab.
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Testimonial written 5 May 2021
Waistcoat painted Early to mid April 2021
I can't recommend Karl highly enough - if you are looking to have a beautifully painted one of a kind jacket for an affordable price - he is your man.
I asked Karl to paint my favorite band logo on the back of a leather jacket - Darkthrone's album cover to Transilvanian Hunger. I had been thinking about it for a while and wanted it to be perfect.
Karl was extremely helpful from the outset - helping to select a suitable jacket and giving me all the information I needed on price to make the decision. After I had sent Karl the design and the jacket he gave me a final quote and showed me a digital mock-up before starting the work. He accepted feedback on positioning of the image before starting to paint.
Once Karl had started the job he sent me regular up-date photos to show me how the painting was coming together. When I got the jacket back I was totally blown away. It was so beautifully painted. Even though it is a monochrome image it was incredibly detailed and must have taken a huge amount of work.
The thing I love the most is that you can tell it is hand-painted rather than a print - it has the top-end artisan quality that I was really looking for. Karl's service is unbelievably good value for money. This is a jacket that nobody else has and that I will keep forever.
My overall verdict - 110/10. I am already thinking about the next one!
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Antony D
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Testimonial written 10 March 2021
Jacket painted early February 2021
Karl’s painting of Amber, on Leather, is just exquisite.
It has brought out the absolute beauty of our little spaniel, is so true to life and the detail is superb!
Karl gave us updates throughout the painting process and we could see the picture in its different stages throughout. Just seeing it being produced was a joy in itself.
We would recommend Karl’s talent and fantastic service to anyone wanting a picture of their beloved pet.
Just brilliant in every way!
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Jo and Nigel, Worcestershire
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Testimonial written 3 February 2021
Amber painted early December 2020
’That’s what I do; I fly and I know things’
Artist Karl emblazoned my favourite ever eight-year old Dainese Harrison jacket with a brilliant representation of my beloved Bengal Puss, ’the Puss’.
His attention to detail lead to him working the image up from that classic vintage postcard, but using photos of ’the Puss’ to nail the ‘look’.
Suffice to say: I love it. And so does the Puss #immortalised
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Steve Deeks
Testimonial written: 19 January 2021
Jacket painted: December 2020
I found Karl’s website when I was looking for someone to add detail to a B-7 Artic Parka that SimmonsBilt was making for me last year when I moved from Australia to Alaska. While the work that I had in mind was different from Karl’s usual commissions, I loved his style and the versatility of his art. I was looking to create a jacket that with an Alaskan landscape, painted with markers of my life’s journey in the style of vintage Alaska travel posters. A tall order to say the least. I sent Karl a number of images of vintage posters and sketched a crude layout of the painting I was envisioning. After some emailing back and forth, we had a conversation on the phone and Karl provided a lot of advice on the composition, before getting to work. SimmonsBilt sent Karl the backpiece and the pockets, so he could paint them before they were sewn together into the final jacket. Throughout the painting process, Karl sent me updates to get my input and allow for on-the-spot updates and changes. All in all, it took a few weeks to from start to finish, but when the jacket arrived it was exactly what I had imagined, just way better! I get compliments on the jacket from lots of people whenever I wear it throughout the winter.
Karl is not just a fantastic artist, he is also a joy to work with. I can’t wait for him to work on my next project!
Roland Kirschner
Anchorage, Alaska (USA)
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Testimonial written 24 November 2020
Jacket painted September 2019
High quality work exactly to my specification and with great communication to get it just right.
Tony from Leeds
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Testimonial written 18 November 2020
Jacket painted November 2020
I became aware of Karl's art when I saw a post and recommendation on social media which led me to his website.
Not one to do things by halves, I quickly contacted Karl about three projects I had in mind and within a few days had purchased and sent three garments to him.
The first concept was to have a black silhouette of a rock 'n' roll singer painted onto a white leather jacket. Karl quickly began his work and produced a perfect image for me after I'd sent him a picture of what I had in mind.
The second white jacket challenged Karls' talent in a different way. I asked him to paint a monochrome image of Bo Walton from a photograph that I'd taken. After some consultation between us, Karl painted a stunningly lifelike portrait of the singer that leaps from the jacket. It has impressed everyone that has seen it.
The third jacket was the most challenging as I asked Karl to create ' a dynamic stage scene' of Bo Walton and Red Alert by blending four individual photographs taken at two different venues. After a lot of consultation we came up with a composition that conveyed 'an explosive stage moment' and the atmosphere I desired. Again, Karl rose to the challenge and executed a magical image that is sure to wow all those that see it and know the band. The figures are a superb reflection of the photographs they were copied from.
I cannot speak highly enough about Karl and his work. He was helpful from the outset, listened to my ideas and assisted in developing my visions before interpreting them into paint on leather. He kept me informed of their progress at all times and even sent me photographs of the various stages so that I could see my dreams develop.
If you want a unique piece of artwork on leather from a talented artist, at a reasonable price, Karl is definitely your man!
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Lloyd & Mandy Peatfield, Leeds
Testimonial written: 30 May 2020
Jackets painted: May 2020
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What can I say - a picture speaks a thousand words.
The whole engagement journey with Karl, from initial emailed images of design, through a daily detailed update of progress, to timely and secure delivery of artwork was of the highest standard.
The quality of the art is difficult to convey from the photo, but believe me, it's good. It's extremely good!!
mfc from East Kent
Testimonial written: 27 March 2020
Jacket painted: March 2020
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Second jacket Killing Joke
"Unperverted Pantomine" completed Nov 2020
Karl
Incredible, awesome, a wearable Masterpiece.
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The whole Project from first meeting Karl, through the Design phases to receiving the final product was inclusive, informative and exceeded all my expectations....
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Bespoke Art front and back of jacket for a massive Marilyn Manson fan
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Jacket modelled by Karl on a foggy Hereford morning.
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Testimonial written: 10 December 2019
Jacket painted: November 2019
Hey Karl!
In short,
The absolute dogs bollocks
And you can quote me on that ;)
Cannot thank you enough, will keep a card or three in my wallet to spread the word of your incredibly impeccable work
Now I’ve just gotta come up for the idea for the next one haha!
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(London based customer)
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Testimonial written: 21 October 2019
Jacket painted: September/October 2019
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No quoted words this time - actions sometimes speak louder than words. Here are a selection of some of the jackets which have been commissioned by the same customer - a London based designer.
He compiled/created the designs and layouts which I painted for him over the years. There have been 40 jackets & projects so far (jacket number updated November 2023)
Hi Karl
I am very pleased with my jacket. Thank you for your attention to detail, I know that painting one person is hard enough but I gave you 5 to paint with Gene Vincent and his Blue Caps. I have found Gene's daughter Melody on Facebook and she loves it, what a compliment. I went to a Stray Cats gig in June in Manchester and everyone complimented me on it - I even saw the lad you painted Elvis and the Sun records logo on his jacket, and he said mine was the best one that he had seen. Some people even thought it was a photo transfer.
Thank you for your amazing talent.
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Glyn Smith
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Testimonial written: 6 August 2019
Jacket painted: February 2019
My waistcoat has arrived safely today and thank you for your expertise in the artwork. It brings back memories of many years ago when I used to wear something similar. I would like to also say thanks for the real professional way you conduct your business and superb customer service given.
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The Doc in Bristol
Testimonial written: 11 April 2019
Waistcoat painted: March 2019
I'd been wanting my jacket painting for years but could never decide on a design.
Once my first book came out (a werewolf horror) it had to be something lycanthropic, and with a brief in mind I took to Google to find an artist specialising in leather jacket commissions. Karl's site was among the top results and a quick look through his impressive portfolio was all it took to persuade me to get in touch.
I got an email back that very night and throughout the entire process communication was always top notch. It took a while to find a design that fit what I was after but between us we found the perfect image for Karl to adapt and create the artwork I wanted, and once that was sorted I didn't have to wait long at all for my finished commission.
It made its first appearance at Edinburgh Horror Con where I was a guest author, and since then it's been turning heads wherever I've donned it either in a professional capacity as an author or just in a social setting. Having my url on there has brought a bit more traffic to my site as well.
Suffice to say I couldn't be happier with the end result.
The price was also very reasonable for the level of work Karl put into my commission and I will definitely be contacting him again if I find myself wanting a second jacket painting.
No complaints here, cheers Karl!
Nick Stead, author of the Hybrid series - nick-stead.co.uk and hybridseries.co.uk
Testimonial written 17 November 2018
Jacket painted April/May 2018
"I wanted something striking, unique and regal but with a retro twist to it to honour the founder, Kalai, of the House my late father belonged to, who established a settlement in a coastal region of Bangladesh. After much thought, I came up with this design for my leather jacket. However, I needed an artist who would not only transfer my design to the jacket but bring further life to it to really capture peoples attention whenever I ride my bike in that part of the world. Karl did exactly that. The exceptional quality of his work was clearly visible on my jacket, even at night where it glowed in the dark! The responses I got from the locals whenever I rode by with that jacket on was a real jaw opener and went viral as a result. Kalai was a kind of rock star of his time and although his name faded through time, I am sure he would be proud of the artwork that has allowed his name and his House to be remembered once again."
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Mohib
Testimonial written 08 October 2018
Jacket painted May 2018
I commissioned this work last year (2017) to be ready for remembrance day and to have it available for all the memorials this year to commemorate the 100 year anniversary.
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Karl painstakingly worked away with my idea and kept me up to date with the progress and I still had the completed jacket in good time for the 11th of the 11th. On every occasion the jacket has been worn it has received nothing but the highest of compliments including tears from a veterans' family on one occasion.
My only regret is that I wear it and can't enjoy looking at the image and trying to understand his soul. It is a stunning piece of work.
Chris - Royal British Legion Scotland
Testimonial written 17 October 2018
Jacket painted October/November 2017
So it started when I saw a cool custom leather jacket and thought to myself "I should get something done that I like." but living in the Czech Republic and not speaking much of the language yet limited my options. I did a quick search on the internet for people who custom paint leather jackets back home in the UK and I was blown away by the work that Karl produced for other customers and his attention to detail is astounding so I knew he was the man for the job.
I contacted Karl and asked if he would be willing to do a commission and also ship it internationally to me here in CZ; I was delighted when the reply was that he would be more than happy to do so. We went to work discussing the design and I provided him with my jacket. Every step of the way he kept me updated with regular pictures of the work he had done each day and to see it coming together was fantastic. At key stages I was consulted as to any modifications to the design and also he provided some artistic expertise to help me get the best out of the design - this included the distressing to the finished product to make sure that it was in-line with the aged look of the jacket. For me this was key to making a fantastic jacket absolutely awesome!
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I wear it with pride and get a lot of comments, if I can say one thing it would be this; if you are looking to get a commissioned piece on a leather jacket and you are looking at contacting this man then stop hesitating. Thanks, Karl, you did a fantastic job and I am very grateful.
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Colin - from Prague
Testimonial written 10 October 2018
Jacket painted May 2018
I first experienced Karl's amazing leather work, when, at one of my Rock n Roll shows, a good friend, turned up wearing a Biker leather, featuring the most amazing portrait of Bill Haley, I had ever seen, on the back. I actually thought it was a photo, as it was so clear and precise.
I instantly decided, I must have my very own jacket, for which I asked Karl to create a design of my particular favourite, Buddy Holly.
Using only a black and white photo, Karl managed to create the most amazing colour portrait. I immediately loved it. This jacket has proudly travelled the world with me, and never fails to turn heads, at every stop. Cannot rate this man highly enough.
Thanks you very much Karl.
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Jamie - lead singer of Baldy Holly band.
Testimonial written 6 August 2018
First Jacket Buddy Holly painted August 2015
Second Jacket Buddy, Big Bopper & Ritchie Valens Feb 2019
Hi Karl
My jacket has arrived and it is stunning! I am very very happy with it! Great work!!
Thank you very much. The whole process was a thoroughly enjoyable experience thanks to your excellent communication.
All the best!
Kind regards
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MH from The Netherlands on 28 June 2018
(Accreditation - Original 'New Model Army' artwork by Joolz Denby)
Karl
Have received the jacket it is absolutely fantastic we are over the moon with it. Your art work is amazing and we are so happy
J&L, Scotland
22 May 2018
Hi Karl
Got the jacket today and all I can say is WOW!!!
That jacket is something else! The whole family love it as much as it do.
Just like to say thank you for all the hard work you put into the jacket. I can see you put real time and effort into it because the detail is insane!
I’ll definitely be recommending you to friends and family Karl.
Many thanks
Lee from Brentwood in Essex
Testimonial written 31 March 2018
Jacket painted March 2018