About Ithaca Sheepskin


A Family Business Since 1979

dedicated to every detail since our first finely-crafted product  

 

In 1979, David Radin wanted his daughter to have sheepskin booties. He decided to make them himself. Other people admired them and asked if he could make more. Many years and many booties, slippers, hats, coats, and vests later, this grew into Ithaca Sheepskin.

Ithacans would look forward to David's appearances at the famed Ithaca Farmers' Market, as well as his pop-up holiday shops in the downtown area. A loyal following was cultivated among craft show attendees in the Eastern US as well.

 

 In 2014, David was ready to retire from one of his three careers and focus on other things, including his musical endeavors which can be found here and here.

Long time friends and Ithaca Sheepskin admirers Mark and Jessica Leonard were looking for a lifestyle that allowed them both to be with their young son (now two young sons!) while still being engaged in fulfilling work. Ithaca Sheepskin found a new home with the Leonard family.

 

 In 2015, after a successful first season of craft shows, the time came to relocate the workshop. Mark and Jessica decided that the best place for Ithaca Sheepskin was right in the heart of downtown Ithaca. They opened the first year-round Ithaca Sheepskin shop on the Ithaca Commons.

Almost everything on display in the shop is made in the workshop that occupies the back of the store. If the "ring bell" sign is in the window, it means that we're in back crafting new products. Please DO ring the bell, we love to show off what we are working on. It isn't unheard of for us to offer impromptu shop tours!