2-Week Leathercraft Masterclass - Discounted Session

Dates/times:
Two consecutive weeks / Mon-Fri 10am-3pm
From 19/08 to 30/08

As this is the first time we organise this class in this 2-week format, we might need to readjust some aspects of its structure in order for it to run at its best. Therefore, we are providing our customers with a discount on the tuition. The class might, for example, end up being a little shorter or longer, and certain topics may be focused on more or less than initially anticipated.

Learn more about the course:
Explore essential techniques for working with leather, vegan alternatives, and fabric.
Proficiently handle hand tools, master hand-sewing, and operate industrial machines.
Cover material selection, finishing, and construction methods.

Gain insights into the technical aspects of leatherworking, including preparation, marking, cutting, gluing, reinforcing, skiving, debossing, and more.

Participants receive thorough instruction in professional sewing techniques on diverse industrial machines, along with specialised saddle stitching training. Create personalised samples to enhance practical skills.

Conclude the masterclass with the ability to craft entirely handmade simple leather items, showcasing acquired skills in both machine-stitched and saddle-stitched styles.

Facilitated by a prototype maker and manufacturer, the course offers a professional journey into common leatherworking practices.

Participants also receive valuable handouts and curated lists of leather and tool suppliers for ongoing reference.

Here is a concise summary of the topics covered during the classes:

• Understanding leather types, tanning, finishings, and best use
• Exploring different types of vegan leathers and their features
• Comparing leather and vegan leather: pros and cons from a manufacturer's perspective
• Importance of choosing the right materials and tools for projects
• Leather preparation, pattern placement, and marking
• Cutting complex shapes with various tools
• Using leather punches, skiving, beveling, and creasing
• Finishing leather edges: painting vs. burnishing
• Utilizing leather glues, tapes, and reinforcements
• Exploration of prototyping and manufacturing leather goods, encompassing varied working methods, machines, and tools.
• Understanding industrial sewing machines and their differences
• Selecting the right sewing machine for specific materials and constructions
• Operating a lock stitch walking foot machine
• Threading industrial sewing machines
• Achieving correct tension in sewing
• Understanding thread types and needle sizes
• Learning to sew leather, distinguishing it from other materials
• Correctly sewing various leather types, ranging from thin to very thick
• Sewing straight lines, curves, and creating parallel seams
• Producing various seams and seam finishes
• Basics of saddle stitching leather and understanding related tools and materials.
• Sewing and finishing a simple zip on leather
• Cutting, assembling, and sewing simple straps/handles
• Incorporating basic lining types in projects
• Constructing and sewing common gussets
• Comprehending the use of reinforcements and stabilizers and their application in the craft of accessory making.

Creating two finalised leather items from chosen designs such as card holders, purses, clutches, glass covers, and similar accessories.

Beginners and beginners with some previous sewing experience.
  By the end of the tuition, you will have:

• Developed confidence in utilising specific tools for leather preparation, marking, finishing, cutting, and fastening fittings.
• Acquired an understanding of working with diverse leather types and thicknesses, with the ability to source and select appropriate tools and materials for your projects.
• Mastered essential leather sewing techniques, troubleshooting common sewing issues, and handling challenges such as curves, multiple layers of leather, and various surface textures.
• Learned to sew fundamental bag components like simple zips, straps, and gussets, along with reinforcing specific areas of a bag.
• Built confidence in sewing with both industrial machines and by hand, gaining the skills to independently create simple leather items.

Materials and tools provided
 

This class series runs over 10 consecutive sessions, at the same time every week.