About
TRAINING
The majority of my formal leatherwork training has been with Nigel Armitage at his workshop in England. Nigel is a world-renowned Master Craftsman who runs a leatherwork school, and I initially went to him to refine my hand stitching technique. I was so impressed by the quality of his teaching that I returned to complete his Level 2 leatherworker course, before going on to explore belt and bag making with him in greater depth. I have also studied traditional briefcase making with Martin Carsewell, an excellent leather craftsman from Victoria.
DESIGN & TEMPLATE MAKING
The first stage of any project is producing a design brief. This defines the desired functional and aesthetic elements of the project, as well as the materials to be used. From there, templates are created in card. These allow us to visualise the project in more detail and to see how components will work together. Every part is templated, hardware is located on the templates, and every stitch is marked.
LEATHER SELECTION
Each hide is carefully inspected for defects before cutting, and thoughtful consideration is given when selecting specific sections for particular components. For example, belly sections are avoided for belts or bag panels due to their stretch and softness.
CUTTING & SKIVING
Careful hand-cutting using specialist knives and well practised precision cutting techniques. This approach ensures absolute control over grain direction, symmetry, and the placement of natural features within the hide.
SADDLE STITCHING
Stitching is done by hand using the traditional saddle-stitch. The process is much slower and requires significantly more skill than machine sewing, but the resulting seam is far stronger.
EDGE FINISHING & POLISHING
A crease line is applied to the edges by hand using a heated creasing iron. This line frames the piece, giving it a more professional appearance. It also adds protection, as the compressed fibres of the crease help prevent water wicking in from the edges and causing damage. Any cut edges are hand-sanded and burnished. Finally, the piece is conditioned and buffed by hand.
Visit the workshop
Please contact me in advance if you would like to visit the workshop. I'm always happy to discuss projects and collaborations
Phone: 0401 811758
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