Video Course Guide

Watch the previews and read the course information

The Leather Cigar Case Pt 1

Discover how to build a leather cigar (or pen!) case in this new video course. Have fun with traditional techniques pulled straight from the history books of leathercraft.

To build this case, you won’t need any patterns, and exact leather thicknesses aren't even essential. So you can use what you already have.

In part one of this course, you’ll get to see how to:.

- Create your own cylindrical reinforcement.

- How to line the inside of your cigar tube.

- And how to wrap leather to create invisible seams

47 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included

How To Make A Leather NATO Strap

Made famous by James Bond in Goldfinger, the NATO watch strap is a one piece military design that prevents you from losing your watch in the harshest conditions.

Designed for wartime use, yet easily at home matching your outfit, as the strap can be switched out in mere seconds without the use of specialist tools. Allowing you to make several in different colours.

Normal two part watch straps can sometimes be tricky to make, with linings, fillers and fiddly spring bars to stress over. However this one piece system eliminates many of these confusing steps.

A favourite of explorers and adventurers around the world due to its fail-safe design, you can make yours in under 7 hours!

55 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Pt1

'The Lizzie Handbag' is a course designed to show you a new way of constructing bag gussets and all without using any specialist machinery, just your basic hand tools are all that is needed.

However, bag gusset installation can be a challenge when lining up stitching holes or attempting to align parts without deforming.

So this course is going to give you the guidance you need to create a small, luxurious and functional flap bag.

And even if you’re new to bag making, there are decorative parts and pockets that you can either include or skip entirely depending on your skill level.

In course number one, you're going to discover:

- How to use the 'one piece' reinforcement method for smoother folds that won't show any annoying lines in the curve.

- How to add 'bombé' decoration for a 3D look to your work.

- How to easily skive the edges of your bag without using a skiving knife. This way is simpler, as accurate and almost as fast as a skiving machine!

46 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Pt2

In part 2 of the Lizzie crossbody bag you’re going to discover:

- How to make a perfectly round handle without a protruding seam.

- How to create the illusion of your handle magically appearing from the top of your bag without lumps, bumps or any obvious points of attachment - even on the inside!

- How to install hardware, the lining and a gusseted pocket too!

54 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Pt3

In this last video of the Lizzie handbag series, you’re going to see how one of the most misunderstood gusset designs is created.

The welted gusset borrows techniques from handmade shoemakers to not only make installation easier, but it’s going to give you an incredible 3D effect that’s sure to make people notice your work.

So in this course you will discover:

- A simple secret on how to create a custom length welt for your gusset that works on any thickness

- An easy way to line your gussets for thin elegant edges that will make your bag look more refined

- One odd trick to attach a strap to your bag that seems obvious when you watch it done

And so much more!

63 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
Free PDF pattern download included

The Technique Of Hand Stitching

In this video we break down the art of the saddle stitch.

You will be taken through the basic saddle stitch using an awl and a saddlers clam - the way it has been done for generations past, and still today in some of the most prestigious luxury leather goods brands.

In this course you will learn:

- Preparing the leather for stitching.

- Accurate use of the pricking iron, troubleshooting common problems.

- Threading a needle the easy way.

- Use of the awl during the stitching process.

- Standard saddle stitch, going over the basics.

- Saddle stitch with a cast, and where you would use this.

- Turned edge seam with a lining.

- Bound edge seam.

- French binding.

- Relationships between thread thickness and stitches per inch /mm.

The tutorial is aimed at the beginner to advanced leathercrafter who has already practised a basic hand stitch, but wants to learn new techniques to elevate their skill level. This will enable the crafts person to challenge new and more technical projects.

83 mins.
Course supply list and supplier links included.

Card Slot Card Holder

Learn how to make this compact, slim and stylish card slot card wallet.

Make with any exotic skin for impact and added luxury appeal (can be made with any skin).

Create and offer wallets as part of your business or perhaps as a personal gift to someone special.

Card slots can be used on many other leathercraft projects such as bags, clutches, long wallets, billfolds and many more.

In this course you will learn:

- How to design and correctly measure a pattern for a card slot cardholder with cash pocket. (This provides a slimmer sleeker alternative to the popular T slot).

- Understand how to construct multiple pieces together.

- How to cut various measured pieces accurately.

- Best glueing practices.

- Edge finishing and painting techniques.

- Pricking and stitching.

65 mins
Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included.

Techniques Of The Blade

Without all doubt, the ability to set the right edge angle, sharpen, polish, and correctly use bladed tools will change your leatherwork forever.

The principles used in sharpening woodworking tools, chefs knives and other disciplines do not always carry over well. A different medium requires a different approach.

With this tutorial you will understand that difference.

You will learn:

- Cutting and skiving skills, from stance to wrist movement. Turn leather into butter with the right knowledge.

- Choosing the correct angle for the blade.

- Understanding grit size and what to use – diamond, sandpaper and stone.

- Differences between sharpening, honing and polishing.

- Micro serrations.

- BONUS - make your own improved strop/buff stick without leather, saving $$$.

58 mins.
Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included.

How To Make A Glasses Case

Make your own case for your sunglasses or prescription lenses with this simple project that can be completed in a day.

These cases also make excellent gifts for friends and family, or your customers if you want to offer a more luxurious option for their spectacles. Use vegetable tanned leather, or switch it up with reinforced exotic skins for a truly unique and one of a kind product.

In this course, you will discover how to:

- Install panels and gussets without fuss

- Reinforce and shape gussets (you control how they look!)

- Create a gusseted internal pocket that expands as needed

- Stitch in a hinged frame - you'll love this part!

- Create and install a turned edge lining bottom (with a secret message inside..)

And so much more!

51 mins
Beginner/ Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Cutler Briefcase Pt1

The Cutler Briefcase is the modern interpretation of a traditional case that has been designed and crafted for the modern world.

The goal of this course is to create a lightweight, luxury laptop case that will show off your craftsmanship skills while eliminating difficult to find hardware (so frustrating!), handle jigs or any specialist equipment.

With its laptop compartment and exterior zip, you'll be creating your very own contemporary bag using the traditions and skills of old.

So, join me in the workshop with no more than your basic hand tools and get started today!

In this course you are going to discover:

- How to make a simple rolled handle (that's distinguished yet easy to make!) without needing to construct any jigs or buy leather cord.

- How to select the correct leathers and reinforcements for this style of case.

- How to make your own pattern using nothing more than card, a knife and a ruler. (Simple!)

Also includes PDF pattern download for technical parts.

67 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Cutler Briefcase Pt2

The combined use of leather and canvas has been a classic combination used by luxury brands for centuries. Pairing two natural materials to create a lightweight, durable and complimentary look.

In this new video course you’re going to discover:

- How to create and line a zip gusset

- How to work with fabrics without needing a sewing machine

- How to stop and start a stitch in the middle of a seam without being visible

I’ll also share my secrets for constructing an external pocket with a hidden lining that will help you to create heirloom quality and durability.

86 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Cutler Briefcase Pts 3&4- Completion

These courses will have you completing the ultimate modern laptop case. Perfect for business, travel, or to gift that special someone.

However, crafting a slim bag that is stitched inside out can be a daunting task for many makers. Not to mention adding little luxuries such as leather bindings and piping into the mix.

But rest assured, in these videos I’ll walk you through the whole process, one step at a time, one stitch at a time, until you can stand back and look at the beautiful bag you just made.

And even if you don’t have any bag making experience, I highlight areas where challenging parts are optional depending on your skill level, so you can easily modify the design into exactly what you can manage and still have a project to be proud of.

In parts 3&4 you’re going to discover:

- How to install custom size gussets which means you can change the leather in the project without misaligned seams.

- How to create and install piping with an internal binding, so you can get the techniques used by master craftsmen.

- How to flip a bag right side out without damaging delicate areas, so the results will be stunning to you and everyone who sees your bag.

55/60 mins
Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

How To Make A Knife Sheath

Have you ever wanted to make your own knife sheath, but didn’t know where to start or how to make your own template?

Then discover how to make a knife sheath for almost any knife you own. A one of a kind knife sheath that showcases fine craftsmanship and technique!

In this course, you’ll discover:

- How to make your own pattern for almost any knife shape, with a simple hack using graph paper and card.

- How to make a quick and cheap foam prototype to prove your design before cutting into any quality leather.

- How to create a turned edge for clean edges that showcase your craftsmanship. No burnishing, edge paint or bindings needed. You don’t even need any sheath making experience, you can make them for outdoor knives, hunting knives or even your kitchen knives at home. Here I reveal all my tips and tricks for creating and you won’t even need a skiving knife!

- How to recess your stitching in a grove to protect the thread. But without compromising on those beautiful angled stitches, combining the best attributes of western and European style leatherwork.

- How to line and wrap your snap fasteners for a neater, more completed look, creating an invisible join.

And much more!

74/39 mins
Advanced
Free PDF pattern download included

Stingray Skin Card Wallet

Have you always wanted to work with Stingray but don't know how or where to start?

In this course I will be showing you how to make a beautifully finished card wallet using stingray.

For a long time, working with Stingray has been one of the most requested subjects.

How to cut, stitch and edge finish this unusual skin has been a sticking point for many.

With enamel and denteen making up the surface, this material can be tough on tools and even tougher on you!

Take your leathercraft to the next level & learn the skills to tame this wild & challenging skin.

In this course you will learn:

- How to make a simple card wallet pattern.

- How to cleanly cut Stingray skin.

- How to mark and stitch Stingray skin.

- How to avoid the pitfalls of edge painting Stingray skin.

- How to create a card wallet mould.

- How to create reinforced turned edge pockets.

71 mins.
Intermediate.
Course supply list/ links included.

The Turned Edge Watch Strap Pt 1/2

To turn the edge on a leather project is to create an item that doesn’t really have an edge at all.

This creates a feeling of flow and continuity in your luxury goods that a cut and burnish or painted edge cannot.

Few realise that a turned edge is also faster to complete than it’s alternatives.

This course will demystify the process and show you how you can achieve the same result, so you can start creating truly luxurious watch straps and see your work rise above the rest.

This course is a world’s first, which means you will have access to exclusive content not widely available!

You will discover:

- How to make a watchstrap completely by hand - hand tools only, no machines!

- How to choose the correct leather, exotics, cow, calf, goat etc, use what you already have!

- How to make a strap that less than 1% of other makers can create, yet most will be able to do it after watching this course.

- How to make a watchstrap in less time than a cut edge watchstrap finished with edge paint.

And so much more!

70 mins
Intermediate/ Advanced
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

The Turned Edge Watch Strap Pt 2/2

To turn the edge on a leather project is to create an item that doesn’t really have an edge at all.

This creates a feeling of flow and continuity in your luxury goods that a cut and burnish or painted edge cannot.

Few realise that a turned edge is also faster to complete than it’s alternatives.

This course will demystify the process and show you how you can achieve the same result, so you can start creating truly luxurious watch straps and see your work rise above the rest.

This course is a world’s first, which means you will have access to exclusive content not widely available!

You will discover:

- How to make a watchstrap completely by hand - hand tools only, no machines!

- How to choose the correct leather, exotics, cow, calf, goat etc, use what you already have!

- How to make a strap that less than 1% of other makers can create, yet most will be able to do it after watching this course.

- How to make a watchstrap in less time than a cut edge watchstrap finished with edge paint.

And so much more!

80 mins
Intermediate/ Advanced
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included (available in Pt1)

Sliding Briefcase Handle

Bring back one of the most practical and stylish handles with this course on traditional briefcase handle making.

Up until now, no video, book or online article has ever existed showcasing the secrets of these disappearing handles.

With the flick of a finger, you can have these handles magically appear or disappear!

So in this video, you will discover:

- How these handles were traditionally made, so you can keep the vintage feel

- Modern updates and alternatives, if you want more strength for larger bags

- How it all works inside the bag, to make a handle slip away effortlessly

- And much more!

Beginner
Course supply list and supplier links included
Free PDF pattern download included

Techniques Of Hand Stitching: Advanced Skills

Take your hand stitching skills to the next level by thinking outside the saddle stitch! In this course you will discover FOUR alternatives to the standard saddle stitch, each with a unique look and added benefits.

1. 'Le point Anglais', or the 'back stitch', as it's confusingly called in English. This presents an unusual look on the rear side (shown) and is traditionally used to stitch delicate linings and thin skins to tougher leathers and hides. On the front it looks like a regular saddle stitch with even higher angles than normal (should your pricking iron allow).

2. The Blind centre stitch is a modified version of the shoemakers 'closed channel seam', but much easier and tougher. It is completely invisible from all sides and provides the option of no visible stitching on your project where/if desired. This creates one of the toughest seams there is due to zero friction on the threads (I have to try this on a knife sheath!).

3. The alternating stitch is a fun option that allows you to play around with more colours in your designs to create something quite unique (see my blog in bio for a colour matching cheat guide!).

4. Lastly there's the wrapped stitch. This provides a unique look whilst reducing tare-out on thin skins and high stress parts by reinforcing the leather beneath it. It also looks like a candy cane with bright colours! Cut a groove before stitching and you're still guaranteed to get angles on your seam too.

41 mins
Intermediate

Made To Measure Switch Buckle Belt

Learn how to make a luxury belt which is suitable for any occasion and perfect to give as a personal gift or sell as a custom piece to clients.

Can be made with any type of leather or skin.

In this course you will learn:

- How to take specific measurements for yourself or your clients to ensure a perfect fit.

- How to correctly cut lengths of exotic skin.

- Best glueing practices.

- How to perform a skived overlap for crocodile, caiman or alligator skin, which allows you to create long seamless lengths for belts and many other items.

- Understand how a Conway (removable belt buckle) works and the benefits of one.

- Pricking, stitching and edge finishing techniques unique to belts and long straps.

52 mins
Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included.

Flightmaster Currency Wallet

The Flightmaster currency wallet is a design that features practicality and style, without compromising either.

Suitable for beginners or intermediate students, this project can incorporate many different types of skins from standard to exotic.

In this course you will discover how to:

- Hand dye leather

- Add your own unique patina

- Construct fabric linings

- Create a simple wristlet

- Create micro zip pullers

And much more!

56 mins
Beginner- Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
FREE PDF pattern download included

Plans & Pricing

Projects- At A Glance

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Courses- At A Glance

Technique Courses

The Techniques Of Hand Stitching - 83mins
Techniques Of Hand Stitching: Advanced Skills - 41mins
Details Make Perfection: Back Stitching - 10mins
Details Make Perfection: Corner Stitching - 13mins
Details Make Perfection: Awl Sharpening - 25mins
Techniques Of The Edge Pt 1 - 50mins
Techniques Of The Edge Pt 2 - 54mins
Techniques Of The Blade - 58mins
Techniques Of The Blade 2: Advanced Sharpening - 56mins
The Techniques Of Adhesion - 42mins
Techniques Of The Bell Skiver - 67mins
Hot Foil Techniques - 32mins

Project & Technique Combined Courses

How To Make A Leather Strop - 32mins
Card Slot Card Holder - 62mins
Stingray Skin Card Wallet - 72mins
The Slimline Coat Wallet Pt 1 (FREE Pattern Download Included) - 58mins
The Slimline Coat Wallet Pt 2 - 90mins
The Turned Edge Passport Wallet - 70mins
Details Make Perfection: Clam Finishing - 16mins
Details Make Perfection: Trunk Tool Wall - 26mins
Details Make Perfection: The Clochette - 33mins
The Bespoke Leather Apron - 38mins
Made To Measure Switch Buckle Belt - 52mins
The Making Of Luxury Watch Straps Pt 1 - 55mins
The Making Of Luxury Watch Straps Pt 2 - 53mins
The Making Of Luxury Watch Straps Pt 3 - 48ins
Solid Leather Box Making Pt 1 - 60mins
Solid Leather Box Making Pt 2 - 59mins
Techniques Of The Trunk Handle (FREE Pattern Download Included) - 100mins
The Box Stitched Watch Case Pt 1 - 77mins
The Box Stitched Watch Case Pt 2 - 71mins
The Box Stitched Watch Case Pt 3 - 74mins

- Making A Watch Cushion/ Completion - 35mins

The Bloomsbury Attaché Case Series:

- Handle Making Pt 1 - 65mins

- Handle Making Pt 2 - 56mins

- Making The Lid - 64mins

- Case Completion - 76mins

The De Havilland Travel Bag Series:

- The Lancette Handle Making Pt 1 - 51mins

- The Lancette Handle Making Pt 2 - 52mins

- The Art & Craft Of Pattern Making - 63mins

- The Making Of The De Havilland Travel Bag Pt 1 - 60mins

- The Making Of The De Havilland Travel Bag Pt 2 - 65mins

- The Making Of The De Havilland Travel Bag Pt 3 - 78mins

- The Making Of The De Havilland Travel Bag Completion - 72mins

The Turenne Luxury Handbag Series: (FREE Pattern Download Included)

- The Turenne Luxury Handbag Pt 1 - 76mins

- The Turenne Luxury Handbag Pt 2 - 90mins

- The Turenne Luxury Handbag Pt 3 - 50mins

- The Turenne Luxury Handbag Pt 4 - 72mins

- The Turenne Luxury Handbag Pt 5 - 120mins

The Mini Doctor's Bag Series: (FREE Pattern Download Included)

- The Making Of A Post Handle Pt 1 - (FREE Pattern Download Included) 57mins

- The Making Of A Post Handle Pt 2 - 60mins

- How To Make A Bag Frame Pt 1 - (FREE Pattern Download Included) 60mins

- How To Make A Bag Frame Pt 2 - 73mins

- How To Install Locks & Rivets - (FREE Pattern Download Included) 111mins

The Traditional Leather Wrapped Belt Buckle Pt 1 (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 62mins
The Traditional Leather Wrapped Belt Buckle Pt 2 101mins
The Turned Edge Watch Strap Pt 1 (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 70mins
The Turned Edge Watch Strap Pt 2 - 80mins
How To Make A Glasses Case - 51mins
The Art Of Leather Wrapped Boxes Pt 1 - (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 82mins
The Art Of Leather Wrapped Boxes Pt 2 - (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 51mins
Flightmaster Currency Wallet - (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 56mins
The Rue d'Andventure Jewellery Case - (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 82mins
The Cutler Briefcase Series: (FREE Pattern Download Included)

- The Cutler Briefcase Pt 1 - 67mins

- The Cutler Briefcase Pt 2 - 86mins

- The Cutler Briefcase Pt 3 - 55mins

- The Cutler Briefcase Pt 4 Completion - 60mins

The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Series (FREE Pattern Download Included)

- The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Pt 1 - 46mins

- The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Pt 2 - 54mins

- The Lizzie Crossbody Bag Pt 3 - 63mins

Leather Wrapped Phone Case - (FREE Pattern Download Included) 75mins
Sliding Briefcase Handles - (FREE Pattern Download Included) 54mins
The English Briefcase Series (FREE Pattern Download Included)

- Full Wrap Briefcase Handle - 90mins

- The English Briefcase Pt 1 - 42mins

- The English Briefcase Pt 2 - 63mins

- The English Briefcase Pt 3 - 55mins

- The English Briefcase Pt 4 - 54mins

- How To Make An Adjustable Shoulder Strap - 42mins

How To Make A Knife Sheath Pt 1 - 74mins
How To Make A Knife Sheath Pt 2 - 39mins
Leather Zip Wallet Pt 1 - 52mins
Leather Zip Wallet Pt 3 - 74mins
The Leather Tote Bag Series (FREE Pattern Download Included)

- The Leather Tote Bag Pt 1- 44mins

- The Leather Tote Bag Pt 2- 47mins

- The Leather Tote Bag Pt 3- 39mins

How To Make A Leather NATO Strap (FREE Pattern Download Included)- 55mins

Stephen O'Hare

How to construct projects and the order of things has been a big learning point. Satisfying to get that clear in my head.

Justin Tomlin

There are things covered in every course that can be applied to any number of leather projects.

Fadi /Far Leathergoods

Edge painting is probably my favorite new skill I acquired. Few can get a smooth and consistent edge all around.

There is a simple joy in holding a $600 handbag and seeing that your edge paint is better because someone took the time of teaching you the little tricks of getting it right.

Dwight Alwine

Were the results of the courses going to justify the cost?

I have taken online and facing courses before that were a complete waste of money.

I feel that this was/ is WELL worth the cost!

Screenshot_20190908-174844_Instagram_edi

Daniel Wohlk

Having a teacher that loves his craft and strives to make things perfect. It elevated my skills so much!

My products are MUCH prettier than before I started on the Leathercraft Masterclass.

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