The World Of Leathercrafting: Leather Tools
Leather crafting is the practice of making works of art, or objects, from leather using color and shaping techniques ("Leather crafting", 2023). Various techniques and tools are used to create these art pieces. It is essential to be aware of the different types of tools and ensure they’re high-quality.
Leather Tools
Beginner’s tools
These tools can be used by anyone, regardless of skill level, and assist people just starting to leathercraft. Some of these tools include:
Awls (different types)
Burnisher & slicker tools
Measuring tape
Creaser/folder
Knives & cutters
Shears & Scissors
Cutting dies
Edger & beveler
Mallets & hammers
Finishing tools
Knowing what tools are needed for finishing can take time and effort. We have made it easy for you. Here is a list of them:
Sandpaper
Beeswax & carnauba wax
Burnishing gum
Hand leather rougher
Metal files
Glues
Metal rollers
Gouge tools
Groovers
Leather Tools
Many different leather tools can be used for leather crafting. Knowing what tools do what function is essential to create your project. Some tools are meant for beginners, and some are for more advanced crafters. All do a specific job that will help make unique leathercrafts. Here is a list of different leather crafting tools with a short description:
Awl- Used to make holes. Similar to an ice pick.
Bevelers- Used to remove squared-off corners.
Burnishers- Used to smoothen and harden the edges.
Cutters- Used to cut the leather.
Gouges- Used to cut grooves into the surface of the leather.
Glues- Used to bond two or more pieces of leather together.
Groovers- Used to cut grooves into leather.
Mauls- Used to stamp or mark the leather.
Pricking Irons- Used for marking where your stitches need to go before you saddle stitch.
Punches- Used for making holes in the leather. Similar to a hole punch for paper.
Skivers- Used to remove thin layers of material.
Stamps- Used to make 3-D impressions.
Sewing Items- Used to do the actual stitching.
Cutting Mat- Used to protect the knife and surface underneath the mat.
Buy quality tools
The phrase “you can save too much money” also rings true here. You will buy the same tool more than once with a cheap tool. A high-quality tool, when used correctly, should be able to last a long time. A low-quality tool may only last you one project if you are lucky.
Longevity is one of many concerns when it comes to these tools. The most important part of this is how it works with leather. High-quality tools will be more effective when it comes to using them. A perfect example is scissors. If you are making something, you will need nice and solid cuts, and you want to avoid the appearance getting ruined because of the tools snagging or not cutting.
High-quality tools are just easier to use. We have all used scissors that don’t cut through paper or cut through it well. Now take this and apply it to your leather. You do not want to fight with the tools to get it to cut through the leather piece or have. This will save you time and money. Time because you won’t be fighting with the tools, and money because you may not ruin the leather piece.
Where can you learn?
There are many places to find out how to use tools and make crafts made from leather. YouTube will be the easiest and most effective for learning how to use tools. YouTube will show tutorials, and you can see exactly how to use the tools. Everything is easy to search for and understand. Seeing a visual representation will help ensure you’re using the tools correctly.
Pinterest is a platform where you can share craft/project ideas. There are tons of pictures that can show you precisely what you are looking for. There can be step-by-step instructions that can be helpful for someone just starting in the leather crafting world.
Your community can be one of the most valuable resources. Try to check for crafting classes or leather groups that can teach you how to leather craft and use the tools properly. These groups or classes may also help educate someone about the tools to ensure an informed decision. Here you can see someone do it in person and have that one-on-one help to verify you are using a tool or doing a step correctly. Check local community boards or do a quick google search to see what’s available in your area.
There are so many different tools that can be effective when leather crafting. These tools will take time and some guidance to use effectively. Finding groups or classes is one way to make certain someone gets a proper education. Having the right high-quality tools will help minimize unnecessary costs and maximize the look of the leather piece.