By Chuck Dorsett, Weaver Leather Supply
How to Teach Your First Leathercraft Class (Part 1)
There’s nothing quite like the moment when someone finishes their first leather project—with a big smile on their face and a sense of pride in what they just made. That’s why teaching leathercraft can be one of the most rewarding ways to share your skills and inspire creativity in others.
If you’ve been thinking about teaching a class but aren’t sure where to start, this two-part guide will help. In Part 1, we’ll focus on key decisions you’ll need to make before you even step into the classroom: what to teach, who to teach, and where to hold your class.
Step 1: Understand the E.D.P. Teaching Method
The most important tip I ever received as a teacher came from a student named JR. After a class that didn’t go quite as well as I had hoped, JR reminded me of three words:
Explain. Demonstrate. Perform.
What do these words have to do with teaching a leathercraft class? Well, you’ll want to start each step by explaining what you’re about to do. This helps students better understand how the technique works, as well as why each step is important to the leathercrafting process.
Next, you’ll demonstrate the technique step by step. This gives students a visual reference for techniques and skills they may be unfamiliar with.
Finally, let the students perform the task on their own. It may be tempting to jump in and help where you can, but letting students work independently will allow them to develop their skills and build confidence in leathercrafting.
If you stick to this rhythm—explain, demonstrate, perform—your students stay engaged, learn better, and are guaranteed to have more fun.
Step 2: Choose Where to Teach
There are more opportunities to teach leathercraft than you might expect. Some groups and locations that may be interested in hosting classes include:
- Community centers
- Church groups and youth programs
- Art schools and retirement communities
- Scout troops
- Trade shows and expos
Most of these organizations are actively looking for creative, hands-on classes. The best way to get started? Pick up the phone and offer to host a beginner workshop!
Step 3: Choose Who You’ll Teach
While you can teach anyone from kids to retirees, it’s smart to start with a small class of 5 adults. Why?
- You’ll get more comfortable with the material. Teaching is actually one of the best methods for better understanding material and finding the best way to communicate it to others.
- It’s generally easier to manage questions and tools when working with a small group of adults.
- You’ll refine your materials list and lesson timing. Working with a smaller class allows you to observe everyone’s work, so you’ll get a better idea of how long each step should take, as well as what materials and tools are necessary, and what could be streamlined.
Step 4: Choose the Right Project
Dry time is often the biggest hurdle in a leathercraft class. Projects that involve stamping, dyeing, painting, or top coating will require planning breaks or secondary activities.
Some beginner-friendly class ideas include:
- Stamped Wristbands: Great for kids—simple, fast, and fun.
- Card Wallets: A great intro to cutting, grooving, and hand-stitching.
- Pouches and Belt Bags: Functional projects with universal appeal.
- Mystery Braid Bracelets or Hatbands: Easy to teach with impressive results.
- Leather Earrings and Fashion Accessories: A creative option with endless possibilities.
If dry time is a concern, try pre-dyed leather or build your class around projects that don’t require finishing steps.
Final Tip: Start Simple and Build Confidence
Your first class won’t be perfect—and that’s okay. If you keep your project manageable, prep your materials, and focus on helping people succeed, you’ll come away with a room full of happy learners and the confidence to do it again.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll go deeper into tips, tricks, and classroom hacks to make your teaching even more successful. And good luck with your classes!
