Thank you for choosing to elevate your skills with the Leathercraft Masterclass!
Here is a list of the 5 recommended courses to get you started
All of the knowledge, guidance and resources you need to begin mastering your skills are in the below technique based courses.
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As you progress, apply the techniques, practice and evolve your skills, you will become more confident.
You will then be ready to advance through the basic projects, then intermediate and finally the advanced.
See below for a guide on build along projects.
Remember, you have access to email support anytime and supply lists and links are provided.
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Please enjoy your courses!
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1.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:
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- 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.
83 mins.
Beginner/ Intermediate
Course supply list and supplier links included
2.The Techniques Of The Edge Pt 1
I demystify the process of edge finishing using simple techniques and materials you likely already have.
Focusing on more traditional methods for a classic look. ​
In this course you will learn: ​​
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- Edge creasing vegetable tanned leather.
- Edge creasing chrome tanned leather.
- Creasing around corners.
- Molten wax edge creasing.
- Edge preparation.
- Shaping an edge.
- Additives to create a more durable edge. - Edge dyeing.
- Burnishing an edge.
- Polishing an edge.
- Types of wax.
52 mins. Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included.
3.The Techniques Of The Edge Pt 2
I demystify the process of edge finishing using simple techniques and materials you likely already have.
Focusing on more traditional methods for a classic look. ​
In this course you will learn: ​​
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- Edge creasing vegetable tanned leather.
- Edge creasing chrome tanned leather.
- Creasing around corners.
- Molten wax edge creasing.
- Edge preparation.
- Shaping an edge.
- Additives to create a more durable edge. - Edge dyeing.
- Burnishing an edge.
- Polishing an edge.
- Types of wax.
52 mins. Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included.
4.The 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.
In this course you will learn: ​​
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- 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.
58 mins.
Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included.
5.The Techniques Of Adhesion
There are so many adhesives available. Here I give you the inside information so you can get the most from this essential workshop item.
In this course you will learn: ​​
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- Brush techniques, and how to force glue to penetrate for a stronger bond.
- Applying glue to larger areas and preventing build-up.
- Solvent-based and water-based contact adhesive, why you should own both.
- Adhering leather to non-porous materials (metal, plastics and stone etc).
- When, why and how to dilute adhesive.
- PVA, what type you should use, and tricks on how to get the most from this adhesive.
- Gluing leather to interlinings/reinforcements as well as lining materials.
- Leather preparation before applying adhesive.
- Primary and secondary applications - when and why.
41 mins.
Beginner/ Intermediate.
Course supply list and supplier links included
Build Along Projects
Once you have mastered your techniques, you are ready to progress through the collection of build along projects.
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Beginner:
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Card Slot Cardholder
The Bespoke Leather Apron
Details Make Perfection: The Clochette
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Intermediate:
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Made To Measure Switch Buckle Belt
The Turned Edge Passport Wallet
Stingray Skin Card Wallet
The Making Of Luxury Watch Straps Pts 1-3
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Advanced:
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Solid Leather Box Making Pts 1&2
The De Havilland Travel Bag
The Bloomsbury Attache Case
The Box Stitched Watch Case