Learn to make attractive leather articles with a professional look by mastering a handful of basic techniques. Using the many kinds of available leather, some leatherwork tools, and the designs in this book, you can produce beautiful and functional handcrafted accessories, gifts, and items for your home.

The 46 original projects, both timeless and practical, are lavishly illustrated with over 500 step-by-step photos and styled shots of completed articles, with detailed instructions to ensure that you cannot go wrong. Includes:

• selection of materials and tools
• key techniques such as dyeing, cutting, punching, beveling
• stitches used for the projects
• inserting zippers
• how to finish pockets and straps
• more than 50 templates for projects, with variations
• projects ranging from earrings, simple bracelets, wallets, and desk accessories to a wood carrier, an overnight bag, and a backpack

Beginners can start small with a simple key fob, then build up to belts, a wallet, and bags, while experienced leatherworkers will find inspiration in the contemporary and stylish designs.

Geert Schuiling has always had a passion for making things by hand and has been recycling to create useful and fun items long before it became fashionable. He built up his leather business to four shops and a factory employing 60 people producing watch straps, belts, satchels, handbags, sandals, shoes, and other items based on customer demand.

Since joining Woodheads 20 years ago, he has worked with business, NGOs, designers, and customers in styling, pattern making, and producing leather products. He also wrote training manuals and offers training to develop the skills required for making leather goods such as sandals, sheepskin slippers, and satchels.

Working alongside well-known designers and interior décor companies, Geert loves creating new items for the local and international markets. He and his family live in Cape Town, South Africa.

Contents
Acknowledgements.................................................. 6
Introduction............................................................. 8
Tools and their uses ...............................................10
Leather................................................................... 14
Consumables.......................................................... 16
Techniques............................................................. 17
Stitches used to assemble leather items................23
Project preparation................................................28
Projects...................................................................29
Office paraphernalia..................................30
Outdoor....................................................44
Boxes and hold-alls ...................................51
Satchels.....................................................56
Jewellery..................................................69
Home décor...............................................74
Shoes & belts............................................86
Wallets & purses........................................95
Handbags................................................101
Small stitched items................................113
Easy stitch-free items..............................117
Templates............................................................. 124