James "Wes" is a leatherworker, saddlemaker, and gear maker, with more than 20 years of experience. Born in Arizona, he was then raised in Wyoming and Nevada where he graduated high school. After transferring to Sul Ross, Mastic found work at Big Bend Saddlery, allowing him to learn the intricate craft of saddle-making under Gary Dunshee, renowned saddlemaker and owner of Big Bend Saddlery. Over two decades later, Mastic has become an accomplished custom saddlemaker himself, now residing in Amarillo, TX. He has won numerous awards for his leather craftsmanship, including the Best of Show at the Trapping of Texas event multiple times. He has built custom saddles in several states, including South Dakota, Wyoming, Idaho and New Mexico. In addition, Mastic makes his own stamping tools and flower-carving tools at home. Mastic's experience as a working cowboy has honed his understanding of the importance of comfort and fit in saddle design.