Leatherworking 101

Have you wanted to try leather working but didn't know where to start? This class is the perfect introduction to the basics and is designed to give you a feel for the craft! By the end of the class an idea of what tools and skills you'll need to continue your leatherworking experience! In this class, we will be making small belt pouches from “veg-tanned” leather using basic hand tools. Multiple pouch patterns are available to choose from and pouch size may vary from 5" to 7".

This class will be broken into two parts with a lunch break (lunch NOT provided)

Morning Session: We'll cover cutting leather from a pattern, hole punching, and finishing edges to create your pouch shape. Then you'll have the chance to customize the pouch by hand tooling designs and dyeing the leather

Afternoon Session: After giving the dye time to dry we'll pick up with painting the design and sealing the leather. Then we'll finish up with assembling the pouch with rivet setting and hand sewing.

For customization, if you have an idea of what design you'd like to put on your project, remember that the space will be roughly 2-3” and should be a fairly simple line drawing. Examples and alphabets will be available if you choose to use something supplied during the workshop. You can also bring a decorative button as a closure for your pouch (approximately 1") if you would like!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Dyes used might stain the skin. We will have latex-free gloves available to handle dye.

Lead by: Shana Brumfield (she/her)

Shana Brumfield hails from New Orleans before moving to Winston-Salem. Shana got into leather working after joining the Society for Creative Anachronism (a medieval reenactment group) and realized she could make a lot of the accessories cheaper than she could buy them!  Shana has been working with leather for over 20 years and has made more than a few special order items. Shana is kindly offering this maker experience at MIXXER because she wants to share her love and extensive experience of this craft with others. This wonderful maker experience is an opportunity to try working with leather without spending a lot of money getting started!

This meet up is for makers 14 years old and older. All makers ages 16 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult.  Please email workshops@wsmixxer.org for any questions.

Workshops must meet a minimum number of registrations. Mixxer may cancel workshop 48 hours prior to start time, if minimum is not met. Should you need to cancel your registration, 48 hours notice is required to request a cancellation, refund or credit to future workshop date.