Message Host
Classes & Workshops
If you’re looking for an unforgettable day, why not join me at the beautiful Cowshed Workshop in Tenterden, in a leather crafting day that focuses on types of leather, tools, design and construction.
We have put this leather crafting course together for anyone with an interest in leathercraft, someone who wishes to learn to make small leather goods such as wallets, purses, bags and belts or someone who has tried their hand at basic leathercraft and and wishes to progress their skill level.
You don’t need any previous experience with leather crafting as you will learn the core skills and techniques on the course. It’s a perfect introduction to making small leather goods in a traditional manner.
We have designed this course around the making of a simple notebook holder. We have chosen this project as it covers all the basic skills required to produce almost any small leather goods, and provides an excellent foundation set of skills to go on and make more complex items. There is also large scope for customisation of your project to make it uniquely your own.
You will be under the expert instruction of Paul Bradley who will guide you on your leathercraft journey. Along the way you will learn about different leathers, techniques and tools and end the day with a beautiful and functional notebook and case that you can either keep your self or give to someone as a fantastic gift.
On this course you will:
• Use the provided patterns to produce a leather cover for a standard 5.5 x 3.5 supplied notebook
• Be guided on how to design, draw out and customise a pattern
• Learn all about the different tools used in leather working and how to use them
• Learn how to cut out, assemble and mark for stitching
• Learn and practice the techniques of the traditional saddle stitch to complete the assembly of your notebook
• Learn how to finish your project with edge burnishing techniques and other small but important details that add to the overall professional look
My name is Paul Bradley, often known as Bardster. I have been leather crafting for about 25 years as a hobby. It started with Viking re-enactment, progressed through bushcraft and archery and is now a passion in and of itself. I have kept it strictly as a hobby as I did not want to get on the treadmill of making and selling, and this has enabled me to slow down and perfect my skill.
Teaching has also always been a passion for me, and I have taught both professionally through my job, where i was a certified technical trainer, and as a lead instructor for The Bushcraft Magazine. I have taught numerous crafts over the years but now concentrate solely on leathercraft, hoping to instill in others the same joy and passion I have for leather in all its forms.
Courses are run at the Cowshed Workshop, located on a farm in the back lanes of the historic town of Tenterden, Kent. Five years ago the owners set out to make a space where people can learn from local artists, teachers and makers. There are both a converted cowshed and converted barn on site; we have the use of the barn, doors wide open in summer, wood burner in winter, no traffic, surrounded by nature, air filled with the sound of birdsong and clucky chickens… a unique and very relaxing place to learn.
Guests will be provided a full toolkit to use. Guests will be provided with a choice of leather and different colours of thread to customise their project. Guests will receive a 5.5"x3.5" note book to use with thier project.
Who can come
Adults
Activity level
not much
Skill level
beginner
If you would like to request for alternative dates not currently showing in availability, please contact the host directly via private message
N/A
