Don't Call Me A Master - Interview With The Man Behind Kreosote Boots

[@CarlMurawski]

What did you guys think? Should I interview more people like Gabbard?

[@cdakskid]

Absolutely - If you can find more people like Gabbard! That was a great interview.

[@kareemwael2989]

That was a fantastic interview Carl.

[@elmarwaldvogel3383]

Absolutely! Could‘ve listen 2 more hours. 👍🏻

[@bradanderson5494]

This was fantastic. Please do more content like this. I can honestly say this was my favorite video I've watched on KZbin in recent memory. I have a lot more respect for both Kreosote as a business and your filmmaking, Carl. It's a funny thing to realize you'd much rather watch a 45 minute interview with a bootmaker than a movie or show.

[@raphthecollector3824]

Late watching this but definitely yes!

[@knunk5476]

This guy is the perfect boot maker in my opinion. This is 100% the most interesting interview i’ve ever listened too, and everything you talked about resonated deeply with me. As a massive boot enthusiast, I can say this was extremely similar to my opinions on boots and very enjoyable.

[@CarlMurawski]

I'm so glad to hear that! Thank you so much for watching

[@matthewwright4855]

Absolutely

[@Marcel-ff9gp]

After 22 months, I got my nail shanks a few days ago. I cannot describe how satisfied and enthusiastic I am. When I see and wear the boots I have to think about how much love Gabbard made them for this craft.

[@JimGreenFootwearOfficial]

Great way to start the morning in South Africa, Thanks Carl.

[@CarlMurawski]

Thank you my friend!

[@HGQjazz]

That b-roll of him making those boots is just another level. You just know he is making art and that no part of it is an accident.

[@Aldiggi]

A 36 month waiting list. That’s incredible. Would be a dream come true to own one of these. What an incredible individual. Thank you Carl for such a great channel and amazing interview.

[@isaacdogliani]

I suspect my shoe size would change in that time

[@tockingwatches2377]

This was an enjoyable interview. I love how craftsmen and women articulate their inspiration and vision. Thanks for doing this.

[@andrewsalazar98]

So this is the guy behind the MYG boots. Those looked killer.

[@CarlMurawski]

Yes sir! Now called Kreosote Boots.

[@jimmccoys5778]

I can’t say enough how fascinating this interview was. The b roll footage of watching him do his thing so good!! Thanks for the insight into his craftsmanship. Im really trying to find a way to get a pair of these! I just really admire his work ethic and just to have something handcrafted and unlike the off the shelf stuff!! Absolutely love this! His stuff is absolutely works of art that can be used!!! Thanks again

[@CarlMurawski]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jeremyt2212]

Yeah these are definitely an aspirational item. Not sure when in my life I'd ever have ~$1000 to spend on a pair of boots but these would for sure be on top of the list. I was hooked ever since the first time I saw those nails nailshank boots on this channel.

[@CarlMurawski]

That time may come sooner than you realize! I got my Nail Shank boots back when they were $900 and it was a huge expense, but I truly don't get a better feeling wearing any of my other footwear. So is it worth it? That all depends.

[@drhientran]

@@CarlMurawski value is in the workmanship and how much you want to support guys like this n their skills.

[@trentv5456]

Started shopping for hiking boots and I ended up here!! Love any type interviews with these craftsman in their trade. Just goes to show you that there are lots folks that want customized, handmade items. Would have never found out about this without your channel. Subscribing!

[@jimmydgrant]

For those of us that appreciate not just the result, but what it takes to achieve that result, $1400 is an absolute bargain.

[@cdakskid]

After watching this video and looking at his website, I think these Kreosote boots are amazing and a very tempting purchase. The craftmanship and style are incredible. The only thing that scares me a little bit is the measuring process, which I fear I would get wrong. They are expensive, but with 50 hours (not including the time it takes to design and develop them) of hand work by such a skilled guy, I definitely don't think they are overpriced for those who value what goes into them. Also, if one was trying to talk themselves into pulling the trigger, he mentioned that it can take 18 months to take delivery. If you saved $2.55 per day of that waiting time, they would be paid off by that time. Yeah, I'm trying to talk myself into it.

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha Yes that can be daunting. I measured probably three or four times before sending him the fit sheet. He will kind of go over your measurements with you though if anything seems out of whack.

[@k.b.o.7514]

Very interesting take on one man's journey, your best video I've watched.

[@TheSilentsniper1973]

It is always nice to hear their philosophy on their product. It gives a nice image of their passion

[@caryjacobs9142]

I love how brutally honest JD was at the end and I don’t think you should have cut him short. Nothing is perfected without discipline. We must all suffer one of two things: Pain of discipline. Or the pain of regret or disappointment.

[@kartikchary]

Very interesting person, what he said about learning being a continuous process was pretty deep. His boots seem to reflect his personality in many ways, they're well thought through and seem to embody his thirst for knowledge and excellence. Great interview ,loved it.

[@CarlMurawski]

Thank you! That was one of my favorite parts too, and a very wise outlook on life in general.

[@seanmccarthy6877]

Super video! I applauded for $10.00 👏👏👏

[@CarlMurawski]

Thank you sir!!!

[@davidanddavidstrading]

there is a little part of me that is sad about seeing you hit 1 million subs, but you have earned every single inch of it man!! Long Live the Sub 100k Club. OG's in their own right.

[@mendezj1287]

Wow this video is amazing this is why I love your channel you go into the depths in order to articulate not just what you consider great value but also get the company behind their products to give us insight into why there so passionate and so dedicated to their craft

[@CarlMurawski]

I appreciate that! Even though I know videos like this wont get a boatload of views, it's just something I think people would enjoy. A glimpse into a world that we may never see otherwise. Thank you for the kind words!

[@mendezj1287]

@@CarlMurawski your welcome

[@joeb5183]

It’s a shame some people are hung up on the cost and do not appreciate the artistry. The time it takes to develop the lasts, source the materials and then to construct the boot is very difficult for just one person. Approx 50 boots per year @$1,400 =$70k before deducting materials, that’s not a lot left for the artist.

[@CarlMurawski]

I absolutely agree. I suppose those are the people who would never appreciate boots like his if they were free.

[@thewizardsofthezoo5376]

I have seen some very meticulous Japanese Cobblers, and some Italian and English shoes are well made, but the bulky American look is special and adds to the diversity of high end shoemaking, I love it.

[@lakevacm]

Nice craftsmanship. I like the squared off toe, because it is not overdone. It’s visually very pleasing.

[@CarlMurawski]

I agree, and I think it took a long time to hit that balance.

[@danielirvine7468]

Loved this man! He sure knows his stuff ! Humble too

[@CarlMurawski]

No doubt! Gabbard is the real deal!

[@johnminden669]

Can’t wait for this! 💯

[@CarlMurawski]

I hope it didn't disappoint!

[@Daywalker222]

Carl, great job letting the genius speak! It was fascinating to listen.

[@zacharyallen3193]

I’m going to order a pair. So glad I found this guy!

[@ashinthewind0077]

Beautiful interview. I know it’s two years old and I am late to your profile man but you both speak words that resonate with me. I have work with boots my whole left and I think I am ready to get some crafted boots from Gabbard. When you speak about slipping your foot into your nail shank that popping sensation you feel sounds like a experience I want to feel. I hope he feels like I am good enough to get a pair because I am so fixated on his craftsmanship and respect that! I’m gonna try to start my buying process this coming year. Any suggestions when I speak to him?

[@yifanzheng1999]

guy looks as badass as the boots he makes

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha right? Gabbard is the real deal.

[@annahenderson1730]

This was such a fun watch, thank you!

[@CarlMurawski]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rebel1988us]

I couldn’t even think about being able to afford these right now, but I guess I now have a new goal in life. Maybe a retirement gift kind of thing. These boots just have something that is beautiful and can’t put my finger on it.

[@francispetaluma]

At 18:30 he’s basically talking about “form follows function” - this is where are all aesthetics are created.

[@jeremyrobinette2563]

I understand this interview is a few years old but this was a stellar interview. Any idea what Gabbard’s watch is that he was wearing in the inserted video clips?

[@Vinniev007]

After purchasing is there any options for repairs down the road ?

[@lupuscorvus841]

Fun fact: The Greek word for art is Techni which is where we get the term "technology". It can also be translated as craft, workmanship, trade, artfulness, etc. so art and technology (practical things) were always closely tied to one another from the beginning.

[@johnkochiss7276]

Excellent video, thanks for the great content.

[@CarlMurawski]

Much appreciated!

[@tuaesam]

What chair is that you are sitting in, and if you don’t mind sharing where it came from?

[@lemon611ify]

Amazing so far

[@CarlMurawski]

Thank you man!!!!

[@shaunroberts9361]

Outstanding.

[@seanclark5670]

Thoses boots are amazing I want a pair just not sure where I will be in life in 42 months ugh

[@JJ-zr6fu]

Can he sell shirts? The Kreosote name and Raven look so good.

[@CarlMurawski]

I know! That logo is badass, so hopefully he does.

[@devissaputra469]

@@CarlMurawski HI Carl, could you ask Gabbard, what shirt he is wearing in this interview. Looks rad!

[@swordfish1120]

Kreosote boots look really nice. The price appears to be justified in the fact that you are buying a totally handmade boot from a craftsman. Actually IMO for as much work that goes into his boots they should average about $2500. However, the wait is the downside. I'm looking for a very nice 7"-8" high boot that I can wear for all casual outings, but waiting almost two years is a no go for me. I need something built within 6 months. I work in either a pair of Nicks or White's boots everyday and while both are great work boots they are a too overbuilt to wear out casually. I have not bought a pair of the dress line of Nicks or White's, but I think I'm going to buy one of their pair to suit my needs. For me it all comes down to fit, construction, long term daily comfort and the general aesthetic of the boot.

[@Tommyboy0670]

Excellent interview Carl! Paying a master craftsman less than $30/hr to make a work of art like these boots is fu@king crazy! I'd love to sit down and have a beer with this guy! Hell I'd love to sit down and have a beer with both of you, but I have a feeling my wallet would be significantly lighter?!

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha we can make that happen soon!

[@aztlanahauc]

The Nail Shank 2 in black coal and the Eight ball boots are on my I can only wish list. Hopefully I can swing at least a pair of one of them.

[@Ltlantnee]

Fascinating! thanks

[@n00bstacle]

It's weird to think about how I thought these were so expensive yet I wasted over $1,000 on a set of wheels for my truck because they looked cool.

[@CarlMurawski]

Great point man, its all about priorities and what you like.

[@Tommyboy0670]

100% This!

[@heyltjerose]

Sick product!

[@darrenwall5439]

Great interview Carl, very interesting nice one💚

[@CarlMurawski]

Thanks so much!

[@stablestoic1491]

Boots is the one thing I need to flesh out in my ward robe. I work QC at a castings foundry here in NW PA, Meadville. I own 2 pairs of $180 metatarsals for work, one for actual working in and one to wear out on weekends; will eventually rotate into work shoes. Company gives one $160 shoe voucher at the local Boot Box store. And one pair of $20 sneakers from Wally, and an ol pair of black converse hightops to cut grass in.. Thats my shoe collection.. I rather have one pair of this guys shoes for date night than 10 pairs of Redwings. Girls go crazy bout a sharp dressed man.

[@CarlMurawski]

I've gotta say that having one truly great pair of boots is an incredible feeling. Something I think everyone should experience at least once in their life.

[@philcoletta3062]

Im from Erie, Were almost neighbors! I just ordered a pair of Nicks Boots and cant wait to get them.

[@stablestoic1491]

@@philcoletta3062 my brother works as a machinist in Erie.

[@magnasquids7864]

$1000-$2000 is more than the average boot, but it's not ridiculous. I think it can be worth it. People pay that much for watches or suits. I'm sure they're great boots. Most of the interview seems like they're overthinking things.

[@thewizardsofthezoo5376]

They are 2 grand, but TBH if he does everything by hand and it takes a week, plus the material, it's not even that expensive some something unique. It is expensive in general, but given they are unique and they spell the survival of an ancient crafts, it is an elite item which the artistic handcrafted side justifies the price.

[@cynthiaenglish2736]

A true craftsman and artist. Wish he made boots for women.

[@CarlMurawski]

He has one or two women’s models. I think one is called 33 Crow and the other is Red Dirt or something close.

[@craigmccall7450]

Similar to Fasthouse... Motocross riding gear. Awesome!

[@CrispyFrenFry]

I would love to get a pair of Kreosote engineer boots but that price tag is incredibly irresponsible for me to spend at once. If I could make two to three payments throughout the waiting period i could certainly do it but idk that this is even possible. Great video.

[@CarlMurawski]

It’s worth asking!

[@aurtisanminer2827]

I really like the toe structure on the nail boot. The curve of the sole looks pretty comfortable to wear, too.

[@mohammedtrachen1998]

I was so lucky to find a used Kreosote Boots in very good condition for only $20.

[@denalisrazor8142]

Most inspiring video on KZbin

[@CarlMurawski]

Wow, thanks!!! It was a lot of fun to make.

[@lukelarsson]

Good stuff!

[@1mooseman]

This is exactly the process I go through when writing a song.

[@holdthatblaow]

I want to contact this guy. How can I do that without ig?

[@CarlMurawski]

I think his Email address is on his website, I've linked it in the description

[@michaelbegin2945]

What an incredibl person.

[@christopherblack8301]

This dude looks and talks like Matthew McConaughey. I just can't get over the resemblance.

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha it never occurred to me until you mentioned that!

[@tk4329]

This is just mastery. That is how most of the things have to be made. Quality ,hand build, original, high quality materials, hard work, bespoke, ....There you put your money every time Regardless if you make Knifes, boots , clothes, .....whatever . This is craftsman art. Those people have to be stimulated not the chinese mass production crap profit making machine

[@discoverspam1]

Carl, I enjoy your videos but I believe your strength and perhaps your calling is as an advocate for the trades similar to Mike Rowe who’s a proponent for careers in the trades. I believe there are many men and women out there who are trying to figure out their future and need a resource for information and guidance in this area. This is perfect role for you. Just a thought.

[@CarlMurawski]

I absolutely plan on covering the trades much more. Mike Rowe is a personal hero of mine for this very reason, and I think he and Jesse James have done a lot for workers everywhere

[@bassheadlife492]

I'm going to be Kreosote's 1st client in their 20s

[@baberoot1998]

Best thing about his boots...is the way he says and pronounces, "boots". Like a Valley Girl, who says, "spoon". Awesome.

[@lisakemper2]

I promised my BF that if he folded all the laundry I would get him a pair of these boots. I hate folding clothes. How would I go about getting those green ones that you showed a picture of on your channel? Any response would be great, he has wanted a pair for a long time. These boots are he ever talks about .

[@CarlMurawski]

I'll take that deal any day! The best thing to do is go on Kreosote.com and pick the model you like.

[@lisakemper2]

@@CarlMurawski thank you.

[@JesterJames22]

I know I'm late, and I love your videos too. But Carl, who's grandma had to die for you to rock that sweater? ;)

[@georgesimeone6292]

Why the name Kreosote as it applies to footwear? Isn't it the substance they put on telephone poles to preserve them?

[@CarlMurawski]

Close! That’s creosote

[@georgesimeone6292]

@@CarlMurawski so what is the meaning?

[@Smokey66s]

Ordered a pair of Role Club Underdogs (Brian the boot maker) 15 months ago and counting. Enjoyed this conversation. I noticed on the “Kreosote” website there are 1600$ off the shelf “sized” boots, price for measured to fit? But I guess if you are asking for prices from this craftsman you shouldn’t be asking?

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha like a restaurant menu without prices? Maybe so. I think the price you're looking at is the custom sized boots without any crazy alterations.

[@drhientran]

Waiting for my underdogs too 3 yrs wait list

[@Smokey66s]

@@drhientran I was given 12 month build date 15 months ago, Brian must be very busy.

[@drhientran]

@@Smokey66s guess you got lucky. ordered sept 2020 n was given march 2023 date.

[@Smokey66s]

@@drhientran he might be spending too much time on 57 pick up .

[@Struthio_Camelus]

I'll check in after I hit the lottery, thanks.

[@CarlMurawski]

Please do. I need a loan

[@Struthio_Camelus]

@@CarlMurawski [grin] I believe it. Does Gabbard take Visa?

[@blythg1394]

If it takes him 60+ hours to make a boot, that’s roughly 35 boots a year. Even at $2000, that’s only 70k a year and he had to probably buy $25000 in materials. What am I missing?

[@thewizardsofthezoo5376]

Seriously this community is resuscitating the beauty of handcrafted things, hopefully we are going back into a place where quality will count more than quantity. Also because our landfills are full of cheap Chinese stuff.

[@bobbob8387]

I didn't know Mickey Rourke took up boot making.

[@stevie9361]

If they are so spiritual then why they around 2500 bucks?

[@michaeld2662]

Sorry. I don’t care if they’re made of platinum, I’m not spending $1400-$1800 on a pair of boots. No way, no how. I wish him well though. ‘A fool and his money are soon parted’, don’t remember who said it but it seems appropriate. Also, I wouldn’t spend $5k on a custom 1911 either, much as I love them.

[@amiablelampamiablelamp2245]

When you see the work and quality that go into these shoes it becomes worth it. For me at least

[@sdlstr91]

And I thought Thursday boots was aspirational 😅

[@CarlMurawski]

Yeah man, it's crazy how fast the prices can climb. Almost like with cars, there are a ton at the $20K-$50K range, and then you get into the $100K, but it quickly spikes up to $300K for Bently and Rolls Royce with the level of handmade components.

[@larslevinberget9558]

Mr Kreosote

[@taylorlibby7642]

I'm not an artist. I actually work for a living. I'm an artisan.

[@chusamusic1409]

They look great but geez at the ego..

[@hunterhaon4265]

I think carl forgot what blue collar is about

[@StolenAlias]

Idk if someone who has done blue collar work for as long as he has can forget what it’s about, I think, he just knows what quality is.

[@hunterhaon4265]

@@StolenAlias I can get quality for under 1,400 dollars he's just turn into an elitist after the youtube money

[@StolenAlias]

@@hunterhaon4265 whatever you say brother 😂

[@hunterhaon4265]

@@StolenAlias if you watch him long enough he went from inexpensive good quality to over the top price for the same thing makes no sense

[@hunterhaon4265]

@@ruggedlifestyle552 sorry guy I got a kid I'm not paying 1,400 on hipster boots

[@billy1503]

This guy is an absolute loony toon

[@sevenstar144]

I’m sure his boots are exquisite but how does he sustain business on 35 boots a year? That’s only 70k in revenue at 2k a pop

[@amBullseye]

He takes money upfront on a 4 year waiting list. In my eyes it is an unsustainable business model. Would not want to be in that list and the guy decides to stop making boots.