Professional Knowledge

How to Saddle Stitch Leather: 2 Methods and a Free PDF Guide

Saddle stitching is one of the core hand-stitching techniques used in leathercraft. If you are still learning how the needles, thread and stitching holes work together, this printable guide giv...

Vegetable-Tanned vs. Chrome-Tanned Leather: How to Choose

Vegetable-tanned and chrome-tanned leather are not two quality grades. They are two broad tanning systems, and each can produce excellent or poor leather. The useful question is not which one is...

How to Make the SY104 Birkin-Inspired Handbag: Free PDF Tutorial

Prefer following written instructions while you make? This printable PDF tutorial was created by Roxanne to accompany the SY104 Birkin-Inspired Handbag Kit. The guide includ...

What Is Chrome Tanned Leather?

Leather hides in a workshop, shown for illustration. Chrome-tanned leather is animal hide that has been transformed into leather with chromium(III) tanning salts, most commonly basic chromi...

What Is Oil Wax Leather: Craftsmanship, Character, and Care

Oil Wax Leather is a type of leather characterized by its pull-up effect, surface color variation, and relatively high oil and wax content. It is commonly used in products that require durability...

What Is Nubuck Leather? A Complete Guide

If you have ever touched premium leather boots or high-quality leather goods and noticed a fine, soft surface with a refined matte look, you were likely experiencing nubuck leather. Unlike what ma...

What Is Suede Leather? Texture, Craftsmanship, Pros, Cons, and Care Guide

Few leather materials are as recognizable as suede. Its soft nap, muted texture, and understated depth give it a look and feel that stands apart from smooth leather. Often described simply as soft...

What Is Nappa Leather? From Tanning Craftsmanship to Luxurious Tactility

In the world of leather craftsmanship and luxury goods production, Nappa leather stands as a key term that is highly regarded. For the average consumer, it represents "luxury and softness"; for pro...

AAB-104 Cambridge Style Bag PDF Template Tutorial

By Jon Mance — @handy_leather  |  Read Jon's maker story here. Click here to get the pattern Hello, these instructions will guide you through the process of making Babylon Leather’s Cambridge...