One to One Training

As someone who has had a life long fascination with leathergoods, saddlery and making I love to pass on what I have learned. A large part of the reason for the visual work I do, the still photography and films, is to communicate my love for leatherwork and to try to inspire others. From time to time, a leatherworker will drop me a message saying one of my films inspired them to get started, and that always makes my week. Training, in person or by video, is a natural extension of my desire to communicate and teach my love of process and craft. One to one training gives you the freedom to pick one or several topics to study and we will work together to make sure you leave with a solid understanding of the processes and can answer the question “why?” so that you can repeat and build on the work we do in your own workshop

Topics

The primary product areas we can cover are

• Belts, from simple to complex multi layer
• Wallets, designing and making, inc patterns
• Watch Straps, designing and making, inc patterns and sizing
• Notebook Covers and Folios, designing, making for different sized notebooks

and the main topics are

• Saddle Stitch (of course!)
  • Regular
  • Reverse
  • Inverse
• Working with Bridle Leather
• Working with fine leathers
• Exotic leathers (inc sourcing)
• Edge Finishing
• The filiteuse
• Machine Skiving
• Embossing
• The business of leathergoods - the hard part!
• Sourcing, where to find and how to get the best materials in the world

Non exotic Leather is included, and the aim is you will come away from the course with a completed object, if we are doing that type of course. You are not expected to bring tools but you are very welcome to do so should if you wish, and Id encourage you to do so so we can compare and contrast with the tools in the workshop and the different results you might get from different tool styles etc. We can also discuss any tool questions you have. Likewise you are welcome to bring leather and hardware of your own if you want. watch straps and similar work need specific thicknesses of leather to work well so it would be sensible to chat this through first if you plan to. Im happy to share patterns etc on paper and card

Prerequisites

My one to one sessions are suitable for any level of leatherworker. If your a beginner I can help you progress fast, without the trial and error and watching a million contradictory YouTube videos filled with bad advice. If your a professional I can help you work on the tough details you might be struggling with, or the business challenges you face. For someone thinking about a career in leather I can help you get there. If you have questions about the topics or content please do just Get in touch   Im happy to chat through anything

Location

The course is at my workshop at;

Westholme Farm
Winston,
Darlington,
County Durham,
DL2 3QN

Please park on the side of the road in the parking spaces. If you go to the farm you have gone too far! If you are here for several days and need help with accommodation Im happy to advise.

Book your place now