Leatherwork Courses
1:1 courses
1:1 leatherworking courses are currently unavailable
At the moment, 1:1 leather working courses are temporarily unavailable due to current work commitments. I’m not yet sure when bookings will reopen, but this page will be updated as soon as I know more.
Please feel free to get in touch with any enquiries, and sign up for updates on the Apprentice to Artisan online course launching in Spring 2026.
Thank you for your understanding
Traditional Leather working Courses & Workshops in Devon 1:1 Tuition
HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO LEARN THE ART OF TRADITIONAL LEATHER CRAFT?
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to build on your existing skills, I offer private, one-to-one leatherworking courses in my West Devon workshop. Each leathercraft workshop is tailored to your goals and interests — giving you hands-on experience in authentic British leatherwork techniques.
Beginner leatherwork students start with the essentials: understanding different types of leather, using the right tools, pattern making, and learning the classic saddle stitch by hand. After lunch and plenty of coffee, you’ll put your new skills into practice by creating a handcrafted leather piece such as a belt, journal cover, or another project of your choice. You’ll leave with your finished item — and the knowledge to continue leatherworking at home.
If you’re more experienced, we can dive deeper into advanced leathercraft skills — from bag making, saddlery and bridle work, to more complex pattern design. You’ll gain practical skills rooted in traditional saddlery methods and leave with the confidence to take your craft further.
How does it work?
You can book a single focused day or multiple sessions, each completely customised to suit your needs. My goal is to help you develop the skills you’re most passionate about while creating something truly unique with your own hands.
The cost of a one-day 1:1 course is £280 per day.
Workshops run from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and materials are included in the price. The course covers standard-sized projects such as belts, strap work, journal covers, and small bags. If you’d like to make a larger item, there may be an additional charge to cover the extra leather and materials required. Additional leather can also be purchased at the end of your session, if desired.
I’d love to hear about your leathercraft goals and tailor a 1:1 course just for you, or if you would like more information please get in touch using the contact button below to discuss your specific needs, preferred projects, and to explore available dates.
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Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided throughout the day, students will need to provide their own lunch (there is a small fridge in the studio, but no cooker). Please make sure you bring lunch with you as the closest town is a ten-minute drive. The closest town is Okehampton.
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Being so close to Dartmoor there is a wealth of accommodation available, please get in touch if you need local knowledge on where to stay.
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The leather used on all courses will be oak bark tanned, from the last remaining oak bark tannery in the UK, based here in Devon. This leather is from Devonshire beef cattle and is some of the finest leather used in leatherwork. I will talk you through the fibers of leather and how leather is tanned. There will also be a talk about the history of leather, and how leather plays a part in the circular systems within farming and soil.
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Launching Spring 2026
Apprentice to Artisan: Leather working 101
A foundation in traditional leather working, taught through self-paced online lessons, helping you master the craft and bring your own creations to life.
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!
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.