Leatherwork Courses

Apprentice to Artisan

Online Course

Apprentice to Artisan: Leather working 101

Launching June 30th, Apprentice to Artisan: Leatherworking 101 is an online course created especially for beginners who want clear guidance, practical skills, and the confidence to start making with leather.

A foundation in traditional leather working, taught through self-paced online lessons, helping you master the craft and bring your own creations to life.

Together, we'll explore the foundations of the craft, from understanding leather and how it behaves, through to the tools, techniques, materials, stitching, hardware, and finishing methods used by leather workers every day. Each lesson builds upon the last, allowing you to learn at your own pace and develop both your skills and understanding as you progress.

Whether your goal is to make belts, bags, cases, saddlery, or simply to understand this remarkable material a little better, this course will give you the knowledge and confidence to begin. With lifetime access and downloadable resources throughout, you'll be able to return to the lessons whenever you need them.

Topics include:

  • Hand stitching and stitching techniques in all their forms

  • Choosing leather and understanding how to grade hides

  • Threads, needles, glues, and how to use them properly

  • Tools of the trade: what you need, how to use them, and how to sharpen and care for them

  • Finishing techniques to give your work a professional look

  • An introduction to the business side of leatherwork, including how to price your work

The emphasis is on understanding materials and techniques, giving you skills you can return to again and again

Course format & support

This is a fully online, self-paced course, allowing you to learn in your own time, wherever you are. The course includes pre-recorded video lessons, downloadable PDF worksheets and reference guides, occasional short quizzes to check understanding, access to a private community group, and monthly live online Q&A sessions that will run over an 8-week course structure (all lives will be recorded)

For those who would like additional guidance, a limited number of optional 1:1 online sessions with me will be available.

What you’ll be able to make

By the end of the course, you’ll have the confidence to create a range of leather goods, such as card holders, simple wallets, belts, key fobs, small pouches, notebook covers, straps and leather accessories, and repairs of existing leather goods.

More importantly, you’ll be able to adapt these skills to your own ideas and designs.

Optional guided project

For those who would like extra structure, the course includes an optional guided project: a classic leather card holder. This project introduces key techniques such as cutting, stitching, and edge finishing, while remaining small, achievable, and adaptable once the skills are learnt.

Tools & materials

Students will have access to exclusive discounts with a selection of trusted suppliers, primarily UK-based, offering tools, thread, and leather.

Who this course is for

This course is ideal if you are completely new to leatherworking, want to learn traditional skills properly, prefer a calm, thoughtful approach to making, want skills that extend beyond a single project, and value quality, craft, and longevity.

No previous experience is required.

Join the waitlist

Apprentice to Artisan: Leather working 101 launches Spring 2026.

Join the waitlist to receive course updates, early access, and the opportunity to secure one of a limited number of early-bird places.

Join the waitlist here

Frequently Asked Questions

  • 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.scription

  • 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.

  • The course is entirely self-paced, allowing you to learn in your own time and revisit lessons whenever you wish. In addition, there will be weekly live sessions in a private Facebook Community that goes live on July 20th - this community will be run over 8 weeks (optional), providing an opportunity to ask questions and explore topics in greater depth.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • The leather craft course focuses on transferable skills. An optional guided project is included for those who want structured practice.

  • 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.

Join the waitlist here

  • 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.

Read More Reviews here
Katy Warriner

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.

NEW FOR SUMMER 2026

Digital Pattern Downloads

I’ll also be offering digital PDF pattern downloads for shoulder bags, trugs, and small accessories. These patterns will be available for instant download, and some will include detailed build-along videos to guide you step-by-step through the process.

Sign up now to be the first to be notified when these pattern downloads become available!

Join the waitlist here