How to Select Leatherworking Patterns

Leatherworking is an all-encompassing term used to describe the process through which leather is used to make something--whether it be a key chain, a jacket or a saddle. Basic leatherworking starts with sewing, gluing or stapling pieces of leather together. Patterns are available to help you get started assembling and decorating leather.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Telephone
• Printer
• Pieces of leather

Select Leatherworking Patterns

1. Decide on a project. Using patterns for leatherworking can include everything from making moccasins out of leather hides to tooling (carving decoration) a pre-cut key chain.

2. Choose a pattern appropriate to your skill level. Smaller, less complicated projects are available for beginners. If you want to learn how to assemble leather goods and tools, choose a pattern kit that includes both crafts.

3. Check to see if the pattern is transferable. Some patterns only need to be rubbed across the leather, but can usually only be used once. Other patterns can be transferred by tracing the lines over carbon paper or using chalk around the edges.

4. Read through all of the supplies needed to complete a pattern before you purchase it. Be sure to pick up the right size leather hide and any laces, dyes or tools you may need. You may find that some simple leatherworking patterns require more supplies than you are ready to invest in.

5. Try out some of the free tooling patterns available on the Tandy Leather website (see Resources below). Many of the free patterns can also be purchased in kits that include dye and detailed instructions, but you can easily download and print the free patterns to hone your tooling skills.

6. Select from a variety of leatherworking patterns, books and kits at Springfield Leather (see Resources below). Besides the paper paks, you can find usable patterns in books and even on DVD-ROM.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are looking for a specific pattern and can't find it online, try calling the store physically. Many online leather retailers have hordes of rare and unusual items in stock that are not advertised on the Web.
• Don't be afraid to modify a basic leatherworking pattern. Select one that is closest to what you want and change it to fit your body shape or style. This can be useful when making hard-to-find costumes.

Resources

• Tandy Leather for free tooling patterns
• Springfield Leather for patterns and craft supplies