Introduction to Leather & Hand-Sewing – Leather Wallet Workshop

Address of MakerSpace Charlotte:

1003 Louise Ave Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28205

Class 1: Introduction to Leather & Hand-Sewing – Leather Wallet Workshop

This hands-on workshop is designed as an introduction to leathercraft, with a focus on understanding leather and learning how to hand sew it. Guided step-by-step, you’ll learn foundational leatherworking skills while creating a handcrafted wallet you’ll be proud to use or gift.

Whether you’re completely new to leatherworking or simply curious about the craft, this class offers a supportive, approachable environment to learn essential techniques and apply them in a finished project.

What’s Included

Choose Your Wallet Style: Select from a curated set of wallet templates, including a classic bifold, card holder, or minimalist sleeve.

Learn About Leather: Explore different types of leather, how they behave, and why vegetable-tanned leather is ideal for small leather goods.

All Tools Provided: Use professional leatherworking tools such as punches, stitching chisels, needles, and waxed thread, with clear instruction on proper and safe use.

Hand-Sewing Instruction: Learn traditional saddle stitching, including hole preparation, stitching technique, and finishing for strength and durability.

Skills You’ll Learn

Understanding leather types and grain

Measuring and preparing leather pieces

Punching stitching holes accurately

Hand-sewing leather using the saddle stitch

Thread finishing and seam durability

Basic edge-finishing techniques

Class Details

Time: 3 hours of guided instruction

Difficulty: Beginner — no prior experience needed

Take Home: A fully finished, hand-stitched leather wallet made by you

Price: $90 per person (all materials and tools included)

Why You’ll Love It

This class is about more than just making a wallet — it’s about building a strong foundation in leathercraft. You’ll leave with a functional wallet and the confidence to continue into belts, small bags, and more advanced leather projects.

Ticket holders must be 16 years old or older.

Where Wood Meets Leather – Meet Ken, Your Leathercraft Guide

Ken has been a maker for most of his life, spending years woodworking — building furniture, cutting boards, and one-of-a-kind pieces that blend form and function. A decade ago, he expanded his passion for craftsmanship to include leatherwork and design elements, merging the two disciplines into a unique creative style.

Today, Ken creates everything from wallets, belts, and bags to hats and stuffed animals, using vegetable-tanned, chrome-tanned, and exotic leathers. Always eager to explore new ideas, he combines technical skill with creative problem-solving to make each project unique.

Ken’s teaching style is patient, approachable, and hands-on. He teaches everything from beginner techniques like hand-stitching to advanced skills like machine sewing and professional finishing, empowering students to create polished, lasting pieces with confidence.

Additional Class Information

Class may be canceled due to low enrollment in which case a full refund will be issued.

Refund/Transfer Policy:

14+ days before the first class: Full refund.

7–13 days before the first class: Refund minus a 50% administrative fee.

Fewer than 7 days before the first class: No refunds.

Seat transfer: If you find a replacement who pays for and takes your seat before the first class begins, you are eligible for a full refund.

To cancel or request a transfer, please email steve@makerspacecharlotte.org. For general questions, you’re welcome to visit MakerSpaceCharlotte on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM. For urgent, time-sensitive issues with your reservation, contact Steve at (704) 353-3300.

Want more? View our complete schedule over at MakerSpaceCharlotte.org to see what other classes are available!