So You Wanna Work Leather?
- Donald Medaris
- Jul 19
- 2 min read
Post 2: Choosing Your First Project
One of the most common questions I get is: “What should I make first?”
My go-to answer: a minimalist wallet or business card holder.
Here’s why:
It’s a small, affordable project that still includes almost every core skill in leatherwork:
Cutting
Dyeing
Tooling (if you want)
Edge finishing
Stitching
Final assembly
It’s also scalable. You can go simple with pre-finished leather and raw edges, or take it deep with custom dye, tooling, lining, glass-slicked edges, and high-end finishes. It’s your call — and your project.
The best part? It’s functional and personal. You can carry it immediately… or keep it as a benchmark to track your progress. Build one now, then build another in a year — and see just how far you’ve come.
If You’re Brand New
Like “I just ordered my kit from Amazon yesterday” new? Start slow.
You don’t need to add every bell and whistle out of the gate. Stick with the basics and focus on:
Clean cuts
Aligned edges
Straight stitching
Mastering the fundamentals makes everything better — even the simplest wallet can look amazing when the craftsmanship is tight.
“But What If I Mess It Up?”
Let’s get this out of the way:
Yes. You will mess up. And that’s the point.
I’ve been doing this for years and I still blow out stitches, over-cut corners, or accidentally make a left-handed version of something. Mistakes are part of the game — and they’re how you grow.
The good news? You don’t have to learn on expensive hides. Shops like Maker’s Leather Supply, Buckle Guy, Tandy, and Springfield Leather offer “craft cuts” — offcuts from full hides that are perfect for small projects. You can get high-quality leather without breaking the bank.
Start small. Make mistakes. Improve. Then watch your bench fill up with tools, scraps, and finished pieces you never thought you could make.
Not sure where to start with tools and materials?I put together a hand-picked list of beginner-friendly leatherworking tools on Amazon — the same stuff I recommend to students and use in my own shop.
No fluff. No overpriced junk. Just the essentials to get you cutting, stitching, and creating with confidence.
Let’s go.
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