Working with Leather

Students will learn the leather process using hand tools and the traditional saddle stitch method of handstitching - no sewing machines are needed.

So when it comes to this course students don't need any previous experience as each day they will make something that will build on the previous days skills until the final two days where students will get to make almost anything they want.

Students will make and take home a journal, keyring, small wallet, belt, toiletry bag, glasses case and more.

While some of these projects seem complicated we will start small and as the skill and confidence grows so will the projects.

Please bring the following on your first day of class:

All materials and tools are provided but bringing an A5 diary is encouraged to write notes, draw pictures and we will be making a cover for it during the class.

If you already have leather working tools you can bring them in but don't buy any specifically for this.

This class has an extra materials cost of $200, which is payable directly to the tutor.

Once you book your ticket, the tutor will be in touch to arrange payment.

Cost includes:

All materials for the class projects. This does not cover the materials for the major project.

If you purchase a ticket for this course, the tutor will be in touch later in the year to discuss your major project and the associated costs.

Students don't need any previous experience as each day they will make something that will build on the previous days skills. More experienced leather workers are welcome.

NOTE: THIS IS A PLAN ONLY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE

DAY ONE

• Intro to Leatherworking, the types of leather, tools (and safety) and what we will be working on in the week

• Start with our first project, a simple keyring where you can apply the principles you just learned

• Start a journal which you will be able to use as a notebook during the week - The journal will build on your skills and is something you can proudly show off on the first day

DAY TWO

• Start wallet project - for this project we will make a simple 3 card wallet with or without a flap. This will serve as a great introduction to anyone considering making a proper billfold for their major project.

• In the afternoon students will learn about bag making and how to use zippers in leatherworking.

• Make a toiletry bag/dopp kit which can also double as a pencil case. This is probably the most complicated projects you will work on as it will incorporate elements from all the previous projects as well as adding some new elements, but it also serves to help students reflect on their major project and how achievable it might be.

DAY THREE

• In the morning we will be making a glasses case out of vegetable tanned leather and lacing the edges with kangaroo leather.

• Students will get an image which they will trace and carve onto the leather, beveling it to make it look 3D. There will be some pictures available to trace or students can draw or bring their own if they want.
  You can see some examples of stamping and carving leather in the photos above.

• In the afternoon we will make a braided leather bracelet before going onto making a belt.

• Students who don’t want to do a major project or don’t want to spend the extra money on leather can choose to spend they next two days carving and stamping their belt or choose a more complicated belt design.

DAY FOUR

• On day four students will learn a bit about template design and how to make their own before jumping straight into making their own projects.

• As previously mentioned students can finish up carving their belt, stamp their old projects or make other small projects if they don’t have any one thing in mind. They can choose almost anything but I encourage them to reach out to me before the camp to discuss what they have in mind and where they can get their materials for as I won't be covering it.

DAY FIVE

• Completion of your major projects.