Leather thickness is one of the most important things to understand when choosing leather - especially when you’re just starting out.
Even the same type of leather can behave very differently depending on how thick it is.
This guide explains leather thickness in simple terms and helps you understand which thickness works best for different projects.
How is leather thickness measured?
Leather thickness is usually measured in millimetres (mm).
For example:
- 1.0mm
- 1.2mm
- 1.5mm
The higher the number, the thicker and firmer the leather will feel.
Why leather thickness matters
Thickness affects:
- how easy leather is to cut
- how flexible it feels
- how well it folds
- how suitable it is for certain projects
Choosing the wrong thickness can make a project unnecessarily difficult.
Common leather thicknesses explained
0.8–1.0mm leather
- very soft and flexible
- easy to fold
- lightweight
Best for:
- small accessories
- lining
- lightweight crafts
1.2–1.5mm leather
- soft but durable
- beginner friendly
- holds shape gently
Best for:
- keyrings
- bag charms
- pouches
- wrist straps
👉 This is the most popular thickness for beginners and predominantly what we sell.
1.8–2.0mm leather
- firmer structure
- more resistance when cutting
- holds shape well
Best for:
- straps
- structured items
- heavier accessories
2.5mm+ leather
- thick and rigid
- requires stronger tools
Best for:
- belts
- heavy-duty projects
Not usually recommended for beginners.
Which leather thickness is best for beginners?
Most beginners find 1.2–1.5mm leather easiest to work with.
It offers the best balance between:
- flexibility
- strength
- ease of cutting
This thickness allows you to practise techniques without struggling.
Does leather type affect thickness choice?
Yes, for example:
- chrome tanned leather feels softer at the same thickness
- vegetable tanned leather feels firmer
So a 1.5mm veg tan will feel stiffer than a 1.5mm chrome tanned leather.
Our guide to chrome tanned leather explains why it feels softer and more flexible.
Choosing thickness for small projects
For small handmade goods such as keyrings, tags and pouches, medium-weight leather is usually best.
Too thin can feel flimsy, while too thick can be difficult to fold.
Understanding leather thickness makes choosing materials far less confusing.
Starting with smaller pieces of leather allows you to test different thicknesses and discover what feels right for your projects.
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