When you’re first starting leather craft, it’s easy to think you need lots of tools.
In reality, you can create many simple projects with just a small set of essentials.
This guide explains which leather tools beginners actually need, and which ones can wait until later.
You don’t need everything to start
Leather craft is a skill learned through practice, not equipment.
Starting with a few basic tools helps you focus on learning techniques without feeling overwhelmed or overspending.
Essential leather tools for beginners
Craft knife or rotary cutter
Used for cutting leather cleanly.
A sharp blade makes a huge difference and helps create neat edges.
Metal ruler
A metal ruler protects your fingers and helps keep cuts straight.
Plastic rulers can easily be damaged by blades.
Cutting mat
A cutting mat protects your surface and helps extend the life of your blade.
Hole punch
Used for creating holes for rivets, studs or hardware.
A simple hand punch is more than enough for beginner projects.
Hammer or mallet
Used alongside punches and hardware. A standard household hammer works fine when starting out.
Leather glue or adhesive
Leather glue helps hold pieces in place before fixing or stitching. This makes projects much easier to assemble.
Tools you can add later
These are helpful but not essential at the beginning:
- stitching chisels
- needles and thread
- edge beveler
- edge paint
It’s best to add these gradually as your skills grow.
A beginner tip
Start simple.
As your confidence grows, you’ll naturally learn which tools you actually enjoy using and need for your projects.
Getting started with small projects
Using small pieces of leather allows you to practise techniques without pressure.
Scraps are ideal for testing tools, learning cuts and experimenting with finishes.
Just getting started?
Working with leather scraps is a great way to practise using tools and understand how leather behaves before committing to larger pieces.
Our scrap bags are ideal for beginner projects and experimenting with techniques.
0 comments