Whether you’re picking up your first tools or refining your latest design, leathercraft is a skill that grows with every project. And along the way, questions are inevitable.
In this guide, we’re answering some of the most common leathercrafting questions. From choosing the right type to understanding thickness and planning your materials, here’s what every leathermaker should know.
What leather is best for beginners?
If you’re new to leathercraft, vegetable-tanned leather is widely considered the best place to start.
It’s firm, structured, and responds well to traditional techniques like cutting, burnishing, stamping and dyeing. Because it hasn’t been heavily treated, it gives you full control over the finish – making it perfect for learning core skills.
For first projects, consider starting with:
- Small cardholders
- Keyrings
- Belts
These allow you to practice without needing large amounts of materials.
What thickness should I use?
Leather thickness has a direct impact on both the look and functionality of your piece. It’s typically measured in millimetres or ounces, and choosing the right weight is essential.
As a general guide:
- 1-2mm: Best for wallets, linings, and small accessories.
- 2-3mm: Ideal for belts, straps, and structured bags.
- 3mm+: Suitable for heavy-duty or load bearing items.
If your leather is too thick, it can be difficult to stitch and shape. Too thin, and it may lack durability. Matching thickness to purpose is key.
What’s the difference between vegetable-tanned and chrome-tanned leather?
This is one of the most important distinctions in leathercraft.
- Firmer and more structured
- Ages beautifully, developing a natural patina
- Ideal for tooling, carving, and custom finishing
Chrome-tanned leather:
- Softer and more flexible
- Often pre-coloured and ready to use
- Better suitable for garments, soft bags, and linings
Neither is better, it simply depends on the outcome you’re aiming for.
What leather should I use for soft accessories:
If your project requires flexibility, think pouches, bag linings, or lightweight accessories, chrome-tanned leather is usually the better choice.
Its softness allows for easier folding and shaping, and it’s more forgiving if you’re working with curves or less rigid structures.
How much leather do I need?
Estimating leather quantities can be tricky, especially when you’re working from a pattern for the first time. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Allow for natural variation: Leather is a natural material, so imperfections are part of the process.
- Plan for a waste factor: Offcuts and layout inefficiencies are normal.
- Test pieces matter: Prototyping helps avoid costly mistakes on final pieces.
As a rule of thumb, ordering slightly more than you think you need can save time, and stress, later on.
Are there affordable options for practicing?
Not every project requires a full premium hide.
Smaller cuts, offcuts, and clearance pieces are ideal for learning new techniques, prototyping designs, and small-scale products.
They offer cost-effective ways to building skills without compromising on real leather experience.
Do I need specific tools, dyes, or fittings?
Leathercraft is as much about the tools as it is the material.
At minimum, most projects will require:
- Cutting tools
- Stitching tools
- Edge finishing tools
Depending on the project, you may also need dyes, finishes and hardware, such as buckles, rivets, or snaps.
Final Thoughts
Leathercraft is a balance of skill, patience, and material understanding. The more you work with leather, the more intuitive these decisions become – from choosing the right thickness to knowing how much to order.
If you’re ever unsure, our team of experts are happy to help with your leather queries. Get in touch today to start your next project.