Chèvre leather is one of my favorite kinds of leather because it is so easy to use, and it looks great. It is a very distinctive hide that stands out when you see it. Many high-end handbags, as well as beloved home projects, use chèvre. In a similar way to cow and horse hides, different […]
How to Realize Your Leatherworking Dream
Today’s post highlights the work and life of Hamish Lamley, the founder and sole craftsman behind the unique works of Pictavia Leather. I recently stumbled upon an article that shared his story, including the history, motivation, and circumstances that led him to create truly unique leather goods. If you’ve been following our blog for a […]
Videos: A Glimpse Into the Leather Tanning Process
Today’s post highlights the leather tanning process and sheds some light on how leather is made. In watching these videos, I really started to think more about the craftsmanship that goes not only into a finished leather piece, but also the artistry behind turning raw materials into beautiful leather hides. In the first video, you […]
Customer Creations: Projects from our Students
This week’s Customer Creations post includes an assortment of different projects from some of our regular course students. We feel lucky to be working with so many talented people! Included are some colorful card wallets, a small alligator clutch and a lovely, blue bag made during one of our bag-making classes. Angelita Fabiani Upstate Handmade […]
Instagram Highlights: The Many Ways to Make a Card Wallet
I love Instagram. When I’m feeling stuck or uninspired in the middle of a project, scrolling through the feeds of some of the best leatherworkers in the world gives me a lot of motivation to keep going. Some people use Instagram like any other social media account, but for me, a curated feed of high-end […]
The Traditional French Saddle Stitch (And How to Watch Youtube Videos in Another Language)
I’ve posted a few times on saddle stitching for leather and, if you’re like me, it’s interesting to see all of the subtle variations on the technique. One leatherworking tradition can do things one way while another will do something slightly different or even the complete opposite. I love learning about the differences because it […]
Video: Decades of Exploring Leatherworking Designs
Today’s post is a video that really made me think a little more about the benefits of exploring new designs, in addition to the satisfaction that comes in working with your hands. Neil MacGregor and Valerie Michael began their leatherworking careers in the early 70’s, setting out with a clear intention to create fine leather […]
Customer Creations: A Collection of Wallets
This week’s Customer Creations post includes an assortment of handmade wallets and card wallets constructed by some of our truly gifted customers and readers. Included are a beautiful themed wallet with edges made smooth by the help of our edge paint roller, a simple, but elegant two-tone card holder, and some colorful Corgi wallets stitched […]
Vintage Article: How to Make a Golf Bag
One of my favorite parts about working on Fine Leatherworking business is reading the stories, tips and questions that we get from our readers. Together, we have so much collective leatherworking knowledge and wisdom, and it excites me to see us all learning and developing our skills together! To start this post, I just wanted […]
Customer Creations: A Bag for Every Purpose
This week’s Customer Creations post includes a variety of bags designed with every purpose in mind. Whether it’s a bag for your everyday carry, or you’re off to the office with a stack of paperwork, or you’re packing for a long weekend or extended vacation, these bags designed and constructed by our readers will have […]