Getting Started in Leatherworking, Part 8

There are many blogs and forum posts out there answering the very common question, "How do I get started in leatherworking?" While I certainly don't have all the answers, and there are people who are more experienced, I figured maybe it will help someone to hear the things I wish I'd known when I got started.

Step 8: Continuing your leatherworking education

After you've had some practice, you may discover that using the same patterns and templates gets a little boring. Some people may enjoy making the same style wallet over and over. Others may really like tooling belts. But even if you've found what you enjoy doing, there are still some more skills that you should at least try to round out your skill set.

Maybe try new dyeing techniques. Instead of just dyeing leather in single colors, or painting over your dyes, perhaps look into how to block dye to create a sunburst pattern. Or even look into marbleizing leather with paint.

If you like tooling, try new tooling patterns. Google "Line Art" and "Tattoo Line Art" for starters, or even try drawing your own designs. Once you have the line art, use your stamps to give it detail and depth.

Adjust the patterns you do have. Try changing the size of the item, or change the shape. You could also try adding new details like pockets to bags or closures to wallets to patterns you already like.

Try working with different types of leather. If your budget can't handle actual exotic leather, you can usually find embossed leather for a fraction of the price. But try a snakeskin inlay, or a wallet made of stingray, or something new that might spark new design ideas. Different leathers can handle differently, so it might be something you want to learn.

Another idea is to look for new crafting techniques that are related to the leatherwork you enjoy. If you like making journal covers, consider learning bookbinding as well so you can try making your own leather-bound books. If you like making jewelry or even items like belts or dog collars, maybe you'll want to try doing stone and gem inlays.

When in doubt, Google and Pinterest are good to scroll through to get ideas of what you might want to do next to take your leatherwork to the next level.