Many years ago I started making small leather items such as bracelets, key fobs and belts. One day I got an idea: “Wouldn’t it be cool to make a bullwhip to put on the wall?”.

After a lot of research, trial and error I managed to finish my first few whips. They where not pretty but I was intrigued by the sophistication needed to build such a (by the looks of it) simple thing.

So I set off on a quest to learn more about whips and how to make them. Bought a bunch of books, studied, picked the brains of world renowned whipmakers and practiced.

These days, the whips I make are world class. They have a smooth roll out, are responsive and crack effortlessly.

I now have over 10 years of experience making whips, and has done so professionally full-time since early 2018. In January of 2023 I was awarded 1st Place Leather Whipmaking Champion at the annual LA Whip Con. I am also the author of the book How To Make Quality Kangaroo Leather Whips and teach braiding-/whip-making classes for both professional leather crafters and beginners.

Using my hands to create functional works of art and to have that art bring joy to others is what it’s all about.

– Johnny Öhgren

Whipmaker & Owner of Witchcraft Whips