Skills Class – Leather work for basket makers

Product description

This course is a skills workshop, for basketmakers of all levels, designed to give you the knowledge and understanding of how to work with leather to produce:

• adjustable straps for shoulder bags
• fixed straps for shoulder bags
• fixed straps for handbags
• leather basketmaker’s or gardener’s aprons with or without pockets sized to you
• leather side cutter pouches

You will learn skills in

• selecting leather
• pattern design and sizing (for those of you making an apron)
• understanding leather grain
• using a strap cutter to cut straps
• using strap end punches
• finishing edges and glueing leather
• using a punch tool to create holes
• stitching and use of a stitch pony and lacing tools
• selecting and setting rivets, screw rivets, poppers and eyelets
• attaching and using D rings
• using and attaching buckles
• selecting and cutting leather sheet
• how to design for and attach to a basket

Perfect for basket makers wanting to develop their skills and make their baskets all their own work.

You will select which projects you wish to complete and materials will be charged out on in individual basis. Materials costs may be around £30, payable direct to the tutor. Leather will be UK sourced and be chestnut or red brown or black for straps. You will be asked before the course what you wish to make and those of you choosing to make an apron will select from leather colors available at the time.

Anticipate to have time to complete 1 apron (without pockets) plus 1 adjustable bag strap, or a number of handbag and shoulder bag straps plus a side cutter pouch- the choice will be up to you.

All our courses are supported with after class notes, suppliers list and help/advice sheets and blog content to help you continue your skills journey.

Please note:

• this course requires  a good degree of manual dexterity and the ability to stand whilst making out and cutting

What do I need to bring?

Glasses (if you need them for close-up work).
Notebook and pen if you wish to make notes, old clothes, covered, flat shoes (no sandals or open toes), something to tie hair back with (if needed)

All materials included. Suitable for all weaving levels, great for beginners 18+. 
Should you have any specific needs please make us aware before attending the course.

Course leader: Rachel Hutton
Level: Improvers/Intermediate
Lunch provided: Yes
Tea, coffee, soup and cake will be provided (GF, DF and VG friendly).
Course start and end: 9.30am - 4.00pm
Parking: On-site
Bathroom facilities: Includes disabled toilets