Apprentice to Artisan

Online Course

Apprentice to Artisan: Leather working 101

A complete introduction and foundation in traditional leatherwork, taught through self-paced online lessons by qualified saddler and harness maker Katy Warriner.

After fifteen years at the workbench, I have gathered together the knowledge, skills and techniques that I wish I'd known when I first began. This online leatherworking course has been created for those who want to understand not only how leatherwork is done, but why.

Together we'll explore leather, tools, materials, traditional techniques and the foundations of good craftsmanship, helping you develop confidence at the workbench and a deeper understanding of the craft itself.

Whether you are completely new to leatherwork or looking to strengthen your existing knowledge, Apprentice to Artisan will help you build practical skills, develop confidence in your work, and gain a deeper understanding of traditional leatherworking techniques that can be applied across a wide range of projects.

£335 Early Bird Price
Available until 3rd July
£350 thereafter

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Why I Created This Course

My own journey into leatherwork began with a two-day leatherworking course over fifteen years ago.

What followed were years of books, practice, mistakes, experiments, formal training and countless hours at the workbench. Along the way I realised that many leather craft courses taught people how to make a particular project, but very few explained why certain techniques, materials and methods were being used. This course is my attempt to bridge that gap.

Rather than teaching you how to copy a single project, my aim is to help you understand the materials, techniques and principles that sit behind the craft, giving you the confidence to continue developing your own skills long after the course is complete.

What You'll Learn

Understanding Leather

Learn what leather actually is, how tanning works, how to identify different types of leather, understand hide structure, and choose the right leather for the job. Understanding your material is one of the most important foundations of good leatherwork.

Tools & Equipment

Discover the tools used in traditional leatherworking, what is genuinely worth investing in, what can wait until later, and how to sharpen and care for your tools so they last a lifetime.

Stitching & Construction

Learn traditional hand stitching techniques, threads, needles, awls, marking out, construction methods and the principles behind strong, durable leather goods.

Hardware & Materials

Buckles, rivets, fittings, glues and fastenings — when to use them, when not to, and how to select quality materials that complement your work.

Finishing Techniques

Edge finishing, burnishing, polishing and the small details that elevate handmade leather goods from functional items into beautifully crafted pieces.

Practical Projects

Throughout this online leatherworking course you'll work through a series of guided projects designed to help you apply the techniques you've learned.

I'll provide measurements, guidance and demonstrations, but I don't want you to simply copy what I do. I want you to understand why decisions are being made, where mistakes can happen, and how to solve problems when they do.

Some of the greatest lessons in leatherwork come from the projects that don't quite go to plan.

My aim is to help you develop the confidence to think for yourself at the workbench, adapt techniques to your own ideas, and continue growing long after the course is complete.

Included In The Course

Self-paced online lessons
Lifetime access
Downloadable workbooks and reference guides
Private Apprentice to Artisan community
Weekly live sessions for eight weeks
Recordings of all live sessions
Future course updates

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Who This Course Is For

This leatherworking course is suitable for complete beginners, but it is equally valuable for those who already have experience at the workbench and want a deeper understanding of the craft.

If you've ever found yourself asking why a particular leather behaves differently, why one thread is chosen over another, why a tool works the way it does, or why a traditional technique has stood the test of time, this course was created for you.

Whether your goal is to make belts, bags, accessories, repairs, dog collars, saddlery, or simply to learn leather craft for personal enjoyment, the principles taught throughout this course will provide a strong foundation for your future work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The course has been designed to provide a strong foundation in traditional leatherwork, making it suitable for those completely new to the craft. However, it is not exclusively for beginners. The course focuses on understanding materials, tools, techniques and the principles behind them, making it equally valuable for those looking to deepen their existing knowledge.
Absolutely.
Many leatherworkers learn through books, videos, workshops and years of practical experience, yet still find there are gaps in their understanding of materials, leather selection, tools, hardware or traditional techniques.
If you've ever found yourself wondering why one leather behaves differently from another, why a particular thread is chosen, or why certain traditional methods have endured for generations, this course is designed to answer those questions.
The leatherworking course is fully self-paced, allowing you to learn in your own time. Monthly live Q&A sessions are available for additional support. These will be hosted on a private FaceBook group
The leather making course includes pre-recorded video lessons, downloadable PDF worksheets and guides, occasional short quizzes, a private community group, and monthly live online Q&A sessions.
Yes. The course includes a series of practical projects designed to help you apply the techniques being taught.
Whilst measurements and guidance are provided, the emphasis is not on simply copying my work. Instead, you'll learn how to understand the decisions behind a project, solve problems as they arise, and develop the confidence to adapt techniques to your own ideas and designs.
You’ll have the skills to make items such as card holders, wallets, belts, small pouches, notebook covers, and other leather accessories — and the confidence to adapt your new skills to your own projects.
You do not need a workshop full of expensive tools to begin. A recommended tool list will be provided before the course starts, along with guidance on what is genuinely useful and what can wait until later. One of the aims of the course is to help you make informed decisions before spending money on equipment.
You will receive lifetime access to the course, including any future updates that are added. There is no deadline to complete the lessons and no pressure to work at a particular pace.
Yes. The course is available worldwide and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.

“Wow, wow, wow. Just spend the most amazing 2 days at Katy's leather workshop that was the most incredible workshop I have ever been on.
The level of skill, experience and passion for her craft is amazing and comes across in her teaching style. I have learned so much in 2 days that I feel confident enough to take on some project. The belt I made was stunning, so much so my daughter thought it was retailable.
The calm and stunning surroundings help with the ambience of the workshop.
This workshop and the instructor are very special. Thank you for making my birthday so amazing. I will be coming back to make some tubs for my lenses.”
“Fantastic day being instructed in leatherwork - as an utter beginner. Katy is a very clear and supportive instructor, giving fascinating insights to the craft and how leather is used. Good advice and instruction on tools, with tips on buying, an intro to the different types of leather, how to identify the different parts of a hide and what to use them for, as well as working on a project based on what I wanted to do with leather afterwards. This was exactly what I was looking for when I booked the day. A very welcoming and friendly place to learn. Can't give more than five stars but definitely would if possible.”
“Had a fab day with Katy learning the basics of pattern making and stitching. I've recently had the opportunity to start working with my son at his leather craft business on the Isle of Wight and have learned some belt making and general leather craft processes but felt I needed to refine my skills. Katy was able to accommodate my requirements and tailored the day accordingly. It was also great to see Katy's workspace and learn about the tools and processes she prefers to use to make her beautiful handcrafted bags and saddlery. I've still got a long way to go but having been on the course I'm confident I can now raise the quality of my own work.”
“I attended a two day leather bag making course with Katy. Her enthusiasm and passion for her craft came through in her teaching. She takes time to make sure that you fully understand what you are doing and the reason why. Her calm and reassuring manner gives you confidence in the task ahead. She guides you through the creation of your project so that you will leave with something that will last for generations. You can not get more sustainable than this. Katy's skill base is extensive and it was a real pleasure to be taught by someone so knowledgeable and experienced in her craft.”
“Wow what a fabulous weekend with Katy. Small class so no problem with getting attention when you needed it and I was a complete novice! That said I walked away with man bag complete and ready to use. It covered many techniques so learnt so much. Her respect for the raw materials came though well and that made you feel you wanted to do your best. Its a challenging weekend and lots of work but you get so much from this and her passion that you take a finish item home pushed us on.”

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About your tutor, Katy

I embarked on my leatherwork journey 12 years ago with a two-day leather working course. Having always been passionate about leather, I dreamed of becoming a saddler from a young age. I was self-taught, delving into books and videos to hone my skills. I then trained with a Master Saddler to further develop my craft and advance into a career in leatherwork.

With 12 years of experience as a professional leatherworker and prop maker, I founded Warriner Leather in 2018. I am a qualified Bridle Maker, Saddle Maker, and Harness Maker with the Society of Master Saddlers, specialising primarily in harness making. I also work closely with clients to create bespoke pieces, including luggage cases, knife sheaths, belts, and bags—limited only by imagination.

My craftsmanship has been recognised by both national and international saddlery and craft societies, earning awards for my work in saddlery, harness making, and leathercraft. My ultimate aspiration is to achieve the status of Master Harness Maker, a true testament to mastering my craft.

Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and through these courses, I am thrilled to share my skills and love for the beautiful art of leatherwork with others.