Have you ever looked at a luxury leather handbag and thought, "I wish I could make that"?

Learn how in this Introduction to Leather Bagmaking course

In this course, we'll learn the basics of leatherworking, from choosing your leather (or faux leather), cutting the pieces, sewing the bag and finishing the edges. We'll apply these skills by making a sleek leather tote bag, similar to those offered by modern minimalist brands like Cuyana or Everlane.

What you'll learn in this course

This course includes all of the tools and information you need to make a simple leather tote bag with confidence, including:

  • A PDF pattern for a classic leather tote bag with several different size and pocket options (so you can select the perfect size that will hold all of your stuff).

  • An in-depth discussion of the types of genuine leather and leather alternative materials you could use to make the tote bag (e.g., PVC/PVU, pineapple leather and cork).

  • A questionnaire asking you about your style preferences and lifestyle to help you choose the perfect leather or faux leather for your bag.

  • A list of the tools you need to achieve a clean, professional finish on your bag, along with suggestions on where to buy them.

  • A hour and a half of videos walking through each step of constructing the bag, from cutting, to sewing, to edge painting (with captions, to help support anyone who can't hear the audio clearly).

  • A discussion forum where you can ask questions about any step of the process that you find confusing.

Sound good to you?

Join now and start handcrafting stylish leather bags

Get started on your leatherworking journey

By the time you complete this course, you'll have the basic leatherworking skills you need to move on to more ambitious projects (such as making DIY versions of iconic luxury handbags). Truly, once you get started, the sky's the limit on what you can make with your new-found leatherworking skills!

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Chapter 1 - Introduction

  • 2

    Chapter 2 - Collecting Materials and Equipment

    • Selecting your materials: genuine leather and leather alternatives

    • Selecting your materials: a quiz to help you get it right

    • Collecting the equipment: what you need and where to buy

    • Tote bag pattern

    • Assembling the tote bag pattern

  • 3

    Chapter 3 - Constructing the Tote Bag

    • Cutting out the pieces

    • Making the pocket

    • Adding the bag bottom and lining

    • Painting the edges

    • Sewing the bag pouch

    • Making the straps

  • 4

    Chapter 4 - Conclusion

Join us today...

And find your next creative passion!