In this immersive class, delve into the timeless art of hand-stitching leather to craft wallets that combine functionality with elegance. Whether you're a seasoned artisan or a beginner eager to explore the world of leathercraft, this course offers a comprehensive journey into the techniques and traditions of working with leather.
Throughout the class, you'll learn:
Leather Selection: Understand different types of leather, their characteristics, and how to choose the right material for your project.
Pattern Making: Develop skills in creating precise patterns tailored to your wallet design, ensuring a perfect fit and aesthetic appeal.
Cutting and Preparation: Master the art of cutting leather accurately and efficiently, and prepare your materials for stitching.
Hand-Stitching Techniques: Explore various hand-stitching methods, including saddle stitching, and learn how to achieve durable and aesthetically pleasing seams.
Edge Finishing: Discover techniques for burnishing and finishing the edges of your wallet, elevating its appearance and durability.
Wallet Assembly: Assemble your leather pieces with precision, paying attention to details such as pockets, card slots, and closures.
Personalization: Add unique touches to your wallets through techniques like woodburning, heated stamps, or adding hardware.
Under the guidance of Grant, you'll gain confidence in your craftsmanship and produce a unique handmade leather wallet that showcase your newfound skills and creativity. Whether you aspire to create bespoke gifts, launch a leathercraft business, or simply indulge in a fulfilling hobby, this class equips you with the knowledge and techniques to bring your leather creations to life.
Instructions: Please bring a cutting surface and a straight edge. Craft/cutting mats are ideal, but culinary cutting boards also work well. The very thin plastic cutting boards tend to get shredded with the tools we will use, so we recommend the hard plastic or wooden ones (you'll be able to continue using it for food after a wash). A notebook and pen may be handy as well.
Date: Sunday, August 4
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Ages: 8+
Materials Fees: $15
Location: Viroqua, WI
Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines (not including Materials Fees)
Supporter Level Ticket: $65
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.
Sustainer Level Ticket: $50
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take classes and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.
Supported Level Ticket: $35
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!
Instructor Bio — Grant Schroeder
Greetings! My name is Grant, I grew up in the Midwest but developed a love and mind for primitive technologies, mental health, and sustainability in my years out west. There's nothing I love more than seeing people marvel at their own capabilities and I look forward to seeing what we can create together.