A big part of the artisanal/DIY movement is about authenticity and quality, with a return to simplicity, real values, genuine materials, and careful craftsmanship. Leather is one of those authentic materials, and while it has always been used for handbags and gloves, it’s also enjoying a resurgence in the field of crafts. Simple objects elegantly made of leather are featured everywhere on maker blogs, photo-sharing sites, tutorials, and craft marketplaces. Leather is in the real world, too, in heavily curated hipster boutiques and well-edited coffee shops that sell sundries. Idiot’s Guides®: Leather Crafts offers 20 projects (illustrated with copious step-by-step photos), ranging from beginner to advanced, each one building on the skills that have been taught in prior projects. Unlike most existing books on leathercraft, which come with a heavy whiff of the ‘70s, this one has a sleek, modern aesthetic. The projects are functional, and the minimal, elegant embellishment and natural finishes will keep them timeless.

REA's Hobbies & Crafts series will instruct and inspire hobbyists from the novice to the expert. These unique "how-to books" provide comprehensive treatment of materials, tools, and techniques. They are the ideal reference for creating beautiful and lasting projects. Each book is divided into two sections. The first section discusses the history of the craft and the essential tools for creating and building the projects. The second section consists of dozens of beginner and advanced projects with fully illustrated designs and plans. The hobbyist will acquire a working knowledge of materials, a higher level of control over work and tools, and an understanding of basic design principles. Leathercraft & Weaving provides an introduction to these ancient arts carried forward into modern times. Plans and designs for over 200 projects are also included.

The founder of Otzi London lays out the benefits and techniques of working with leather, including stitching, lacing, weaving, folding, riveting, and more. Learn to make beautiful items from leather, from homeware to fashion accessories, in your own living room. From a woven bench or log basket, to bags, a sunglasses case or even an apron, this cool craft book teaches you how to make twenty simple yet stylish leather projects. Master core craft skills that will allow you to produce elegant and durable pieces, such as hand-stitching, weaving, riveting and lacing. Learn all about working with this natural and sustainable material which has intrinsic value and gives unique character to each piece you create. Working with leather is a tidy, portable craft that requires little space and all of the tools and materials can be readily purchased—all you need is a small dining table! This book is the perfect introduction to working with leather. “Demonstrates just how straightforward it can be to work with leather at home.” —House Beautiful

Learn the art of creating elegant accessories from genuine leather with this inspiring guide. Handmade Leather Bags & Accessories shows you how to make classic handbags and accessories with a decidedly modern flair. Gifted fashion designer Ke Yi Lun shares 28 simple strategies for enhancing your wardrobe with fashion-forward luxuries at a fraction of what you'd pay in fine stores.Even if you've never tried leatherworking before, you'll be surprised at how much fun it is to make durable and sophisticated bags using these basic techniques. Gorgeous photographs, step-by-step diagrams, and easy-to-follow instructions make it easy! Create a chic purse or shoulder bag to go with every outfit. Find fresh and fabulous ideas for satchels, hobos, messenger bags and totes. Learn to make chic and urbane accessories for every taste, including iPad holders, business card cases, coasters, key ring tabs and much more.Inside Handmade Leather Bags & Accessories you'll find:" How To Make Elegant Upscale Leather Bags " High-End Accessories Without the High-End Price Tag" Purses, Shoulder Bags, Satchels, Hobos, Messenger Bags and Totes" iPad Holders, Business Card Cases, Coasters and Key Ring Tabs" Step-by-Step Diagrams and Easy-to-Follow Instructions" Gorgeous, Inspiring Color Photographs

• The must-have guide for working with leather. • Great book for beginning leather crafters. • Comprehensive presentation of essential techniques. • Handy tips from leather crafting experts. • Well-illustrated with color photos. • Traditional floral carving step-by-step project.

Leather.

"The guide for leathercrafters who want a clearly traditional focus, who believe quality matters, and who want to learn traditional techniques to use in modern ways."--back cover