Get Started with DIY Leather Craft Projects

Leather crafting is a creative and rewarding art form that lets you make beautiful, functional, and lasting pieces with your own hands. This guide covers essential tools, materials, and DIY project ideas to help you start your leather crafting journey confidently.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

For any leather project, having the right tools and materials is essential. Don't worry if you're a beginner—there's no need to buy an entire workshop of tools. Here are some basics to get you started:

Essential Tools

• Cutting Tools: A sharp rotary cutter or utility knife is essential for clean, precise cuts. While scissors can work for thinner leather, they often crush the edges of thicker pieces. A self-healing cutting mat is also a good investment to protect your surfaces.
• Leather Needles and Thread: Regular sewing needles won't work. Leather needles and waxed thread slide smoothly through the leather, creating strong, durable seams.
• Leather Hole Punch: A rotary hole punch or diamond chisel makes it easier to create even holes for stitching or adding hardware.
• Rivets, Snaps, and Clasps: These hardware elements add function and style to your projects. They secure pieces together without stitching and can become decorative focal points.
• Burnishing Tools—Smooth raw edges with a wooden slicker or similar tool. Use it with compounds like gum tragacanth or tokonole for polished results.
• Ruler and Measuring Tape: Precision matters in leatherwork. Metal rulers are preferable, as they won't be damaged by cutting tools that might slip during use.
• Awl: This pointed tool helps mark stitch lines and can enlarge or create holes in leather.
• Stitching Pony or Clamp: While optional for beginners, these tools hold your leather securely while you sew, leaving your hands free for better control.

Materials

• Leather: Vegetable-tanned leather is a favourite for its versatility. Use thinner leather (0.8-1.2 mm) for smaller projects like wallets. For something sturdier, like bags, go thicker (1.6-2.0 mm).
• Scrap Leather: Scrap leather is an excellent way to save money and reduce waste. Use it to practise new techniques or create unique items like wallets, bracelets, or totes. You can even tackle bigger projects like reupholstering furniture. Our bundles offer an affordable mix of colours, textures, and sizes to suit your idea.
• Leather Glue: Helps hold pieces together before stitching.
• Edge Paint or Conditioner: Use these to create coloured edges or keep the leather soft and durable. Beeswax is another good option for finishing.

6 DIY Leather Craft Projects You'll Love

Are you eager to make something with your hands? Here are six projects to try, ranging from beginner-friendly to intermediate-level. Each project not only looks great but also teaches valuable skills.

1. Leather Glasses Case

Skill Level: Beginner

This soft leather glasses case is both practical and stylish. It's a simple project you can finish in just a few hours. You only need soft leather, leather glue, a cutting tool, and waxed thread.

The process is straightforward: cut your leather to size, glue the edges, and stitch it together. If you want to personalise it, add details such as stamped patterns or contrasting threads. The result? A sleek case that protects your glasses and showcases your new skills.

Learn how to create a leather glasses case here.

2. Patchwork Leather Bucket Bag

Skill Level: Intermediate

Transform leather scraps into a unique patchwork bucket bag. By combining different pieces, you can create a one-of-a-kind accessory that's eco-friendly and functional.

This bag features a classic cylindrical shape with a drawstring closure. You'll learn to piece together leather scraps, shape the bag, and add finishing touches. Whether you use a sewing machine or stitch by hand, this project is a fantastic way to practise working with multiple pieces of leather.

Make your leather bucket bag here.

3. Baby Leather Shoes

Skill Level: Intermediate

There's something special about making baby shoes. Leather is the perfect material—it's soft, durable, and moulds to tiny feet. This project is ideal as a gift for new parents and can be customised with different colours or embellishments.

You'll learn to cut patterns, punch holes, and sew curved pieces of leather. The result is a charming and practical pair of shoes that will be cherished.

Explore instructions for leather baby shoes.

4. Leather Camera Strap

Skill Level: Beginner

Upgrade your camera gear with a handmade leather strap. This project combines functionality with personalisation, giving you a durable and stylish accessory for your photography adventures.

Start by cutting a strap to your desired length and punching holes for hardware like D-rings or rivets. This project is an excellent introduction to cutting straight lines and using basic tools. Add decorative touches like stamping or stitching to make it truly yours.

Find the tutorial for a leather camera strap.

5. DIY Leather Journal

Skill Level: Beginner

A leather journal is both practical and meaningful. Use it for writing, sketching, or keeping memories. The best part? The leather cover will age beautifully over time.

This project combines leatherwork with simple bookbinding. You'll cut and shape the leather cover, then attach it to handmade or recycled paper. For a polished finish, add a wrap-around strap or buckle.

A super simplified version of a mini leather journal

6. Making a Swivel Key Fob

Skill Level: Beginner

This quick and simple project is perfect for using up small leather scraps. A leather key fob is a functional item that also makes a great gift.

Cut scrap leather into a strip, fold it over, and secure it with a binding post through the hole. For a more personalised result, you can add extra decoration, such as stamped initials or coloured edges.

Create a Key Fob from scrap leather

Why Start Your Leather Crafting Journey Today?

Leather crafting is more than just a hobby—it's a way to create lasting, functional items while learning timeless skills. Each project you complete builds your confidence and opens the door to more ambitious designs.

Starting with basic projects like a glasses case or key fob is a great way to learn cutting, stitching, and finishing techniques. As you gain experience, you'll be ready to tackle more complex creations, like bags or shoes.

We're here to help you succeed. Take a look at our selection of scrap leather bundles and other supplies. 

Get Started on Your Next Leather Project

Whether you're making a thoughtful gift, a functional accessory, or something just for yourself, DIY leather craft projects offer endless possibilities. The satisfaction of creating something with your own hands is unmatched.

So, gather your tools, pick a project, and let your creativity shine. You'll be amazed by what you can achieve with practice, patience, and the right materials.