A Day-Long Leatherworking Course offers a hands-on experience in crafting your own leather goods from start to finish, all using high-quality, natural vegetable-tanned (veg-tan) leather. You'll learn the essential skills needed to create two beautiful and functional items: a leather card slip and a custom-fitted belt, both of which will develop a rich patina over time.

Wrapping Up

By the end of the day, you'll walk away with two handcrafted items—a card slip and a custom-fitted belt—both made from natural veg-tan leather. Each piece will grow more beautiful with time and use, reflecting your unique personal style and the craftsmanship that went into creating it.

Throughout the course, you'll gain a solid foundation in leatherworking techniques, leaving you confident to pursue more advanced projects in the future. Plus, you’ll carry home the satisfaction of wearing and using items you made with your own hands.

Basic Leather Crafting Class

£200.00

Morning Session: Crafting a Leather Card Slip

Introduction to Leatherworking Tools and Materials:

Learn about the tools of the trade, including knives, awls, stitching tools, and edge finishers.

Get familiar with natural veg-tan leather—understanding its qualities, how it’s tanned using plant extracts, and why it’s perfect for aging beautifully.

Measuring and Cutting:

Measure and cut your leather to the desired dimensions for your card slip.

Practice safe cutting techniques and learn how to use a cutting mat and a straight edge for precision.

Edge Beveling and Burnishing:

Use edge bevelers to smooth out the raw edges of your leather pieces, then burnish the edges to a glossy, finished look.

Saddle Stitching:

Learn the timeless saddle stitch method, ensuring your card slip will hold up for years.

Punch stitching holes with pricking irons and master hand-stitching with durable waxed thread.

Final Finishing Touches:

Apply a natural beeswax or oil to condition and protect the leather.

Review finishing techniques to create a refined, polished look.

By the end of the morning, you'll have completed a minimalist, yet elegant leather card slip—ready to age and develop a rich character over time.

Lunch Break

Take a break and discuss your progress with fellow students. Enjoy refreshments while soaking in the smell of leather and reflecting on the craft.

Afternoon Session: Crafting a Custom-Fitted Veg-Tan Belt

Designing Your Belt:

Measure your waist and design your own belt, choosing from different buckle options and belt widths to suit your style.

Cut a long strip of veg-tan leather, making precise measurements for a perfect fit.

Punching Holes and Preparing for Hardware:

Use a rotary punch to create holes for your buckle and belt adjustments.

Fit and rivet the belt buckle using solid brass or stainless-steel hardware.

Edge Beveling, Burnishing, and Finishing:

Learn advanced edge finishing techniques to ensure a professional-grade belt.

Burnish the edges using gum tragacanth or water for a smooth, glassy finish.

Belt Loop and Stitching:

Craft a matching belt loop, stitching it in place to hold the excess strap.

Customize your belt with your initials or a subtle design using stamping tools if desired.

Conditioning and Final Details:

Apply natural oils or waxes to the belt, deepening the leather’s color and preparing it to develop a rich patina with use.

Basic Leather Crafting Class

Key Features:

AJ LEATHER WORK