About Us

Timeless Buckles, Crafted to Perfection

A Lifelong Passion for Craftsmanship, Teaching, and Nature

Vanessa & Robert Bonfe

A Perfect Duo in Life and Passion

Bob and his wife, high school sweethearts from Patchogue-Medford High School, have been happily married since 1984. They’ve raised two wonderful children: Robert Jr., a CAT scan technologist, and Stephanie, a bilingual teacher who helped translate Bob’s book into Spanish. Stephanie and her husband, Mike, have blessed them with two grandsons, Michelangelo and Giovanni, who inspired Bob’s book about the Bonfe Leather Workshop.

Celebrating 40 years of marriage in July, Bob’s family is his greatest pride. With love and gratitude, he looks forward to the future surrounded by those he cherishes most.

The Mission: Teaching Through Craft and History

Bob’s lifetime mission is rooted in his love of teaching and sharing knowledge about the world’s history, nature, and culture. He has always dreamed of writing a book that would educate young learners about the importance of art, history, and craftsmanship. Inspired by his work in leathercraft and his passion for storytelling, he created a unique teaching book focused on the incredible art and history of the belt buckle, designed to educate learners of all languages.

Leathercraft and Early Career

At the age of 17, Robert began working as a leathercraft supervisor in the Town of Islip Program for Exceptional Children, where he honed his skills in leatherworking. This early experience set the stage for his lifelong dedication to leathercraft and his eventual teaching career.

Teaching Career and Passion for Education

In 1984, Robert embarked on his teaching career, specializing in special education and science. He spent the majority of his teaching years at Central Islip High School on Long Island, where he gained the admiration and respect of both his students and fellow educators. Robert’s passion for education was matched only by his love for creating handcrafted leather belts, a hobby that he shared with his students and colleagues.

A Journey Through Nature and Native American Art

As a young man, Robert traveled extensively, developing a deep appreciation for nature and culture. Visits to iconic destinations like Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon, and the Petrified Forest left a lasting impression on him. During these travels, he became enchanted by the craftsmanship of Native American jewelry, particularly pieces made from sterling silver and turquoise, which inspired his own artistic and craft endeavors.

Craftsmanship: A Legacy of Quality

The art of craftsmanship was instilled in Robert at an early age by his grandfather, Albert Bonfe Sr., a professional shoemaker in Syracuse, New York. Albert Sr. was a well-respected and beloved craftsman, whose dedication to his craft became a guiding force in Robert’s life. This legacy of dedication to quality and attention to detail in craftsmanship would go on to shape Robert’s approach to his own work, particularly in leathercraft.

Family Life and LegacyLegacyLegacy

In 1984, Robert married his lovely wife, Vanessa, and together they have two children:

Robert Jr., a professional CAT scan technologist, who enjoys fishing the local waters of Long Island.
Stephanie, an educator specializing in TESOL and special education, and a consultant and translator for this book.

Robert and Vanessa are also proud grandparents to Michaelangelo and Giovanni, who are regular visitors to their grandfather’s leather workshop, where the story of the workshop inspired this book.