In a stunning and deeply emotional revelation, Susie Fletcher — the cherished leatherworking expert from the acclaimed series The Repair Shop — has finally opened up about the hidden journey that shaped her into the quiet force of resilience millions have come to admire. Her story, woven with grief, grit, and extraordinary artistry, has now captured the world’s attention and stands as a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to rise after being shattered.
Born in the UK, Susie discovered her passion at just 14, crafting her first saddles with a precision far beyond her years. Raised in a household fueled by creativity — her mother a designer, her father a meticulous watchmaker — she absorbed the discipline and imagination that would later carry her through some of life’s darkest storms. These early lessons proved vital as she stepped bravely into the male-dominated leather trade, where skepticism and dismissal greeted her at nearly every turn.
But Susie persevered. What began as a teenage fascination matured into a flourishing business in Boulder, Colorado, where her exceptional craftsmanship earned her widespread respect. Each piece she restored told a story, and behind every stitch was a woman overcoming countless obstacles to carve a place for herself in an industry slow to accept her.
Then, in 2013, everything changed. Susie’s world collapsed when her husband, Rob, was diagnosed with terminal cancer. His death left her in a labyrinth of grief so profound it threatened to consume her entirely. Yet from this unimaginable heartbreak emerged the spark that would redirect her life. Seeking healing, she turned back to her roots — family, craft, and the quiet solace of the workbench.
In an unexpected twist, it was her brother, Steve Fletcher, who urged her to join The Repair Shop. Hesitant but hopeful, Susie stepped into the workshop — and unknowingly stepped into a new chapter of purpose. Her calm presence, quiet wisdom, and unmatched skill immediately resonated with viewers. What audiences didn’t see, however, was the silent triumph behind every restoration: a woman rebuilding not just objects, but herself.
Today, Susie Fletcher shines as one of the heartbeats of The Repair Shop. Her work transcends craftsmanship; it has become a symbol of healing, resilience, and the courage to begin again. With her upcoming book, The Sun Over the Mountains, she finally shares the full story — a raw, uplifting reminder that even after life’s most devastating blows, hope can return, slowly but surely, like sunrise over distant peaks.
As Susie’s journey continues to unfold, it resonates powerfully with all who face their own struggles. Her story is not merely about leather and tools — it is about survival, reinvention, and the extraordinary strength found in the act of creating beauty from brokenness.
