Armitage Leather Ltd reviews

28 Jan 18'

Paul Newton reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"An excellent course and great value for money. I had three months full-time experience of leatherwork and had watched about fifty hours of video tutorials before attending a two-day course with Nigel. I decided to attend a face-to-face course because I felt that my progress had stalled. Nigel gave me his undivided attention for sixteen hours and answered every question I had, including some crucial information about materials and suppliers that I could not have found anywhere else. The course covered everything from pattern making to construction and finishing. I learned a tremendous amount during the course and the quality of the pieces I’m making has improved markedly. I think that while online learning is useful, there are many things that you really need to be shown to fully appreciate. I have just booked another course with Nigel. Highly recommended!"

27 Jan 18'

Oli Foulds reviewed: A General Leatherwork Skill Day

"Hands down the best course I've ever been on. In anything. Solid 5 stars. Perfect for the beginner, this is a fantastic hands-on experience mixed with the theory behind it all and a fascinating history lesson thrown in too, all set at a pace that gives you plenty of time for it to sink in. It's amazing what you can learn to do in a day! I walked through the door with no knowledge of leatherwork whatsoever but over the next few hours I was able to go through the core techniques and then actually put them all into action and produce something that I will be able to keep forever. Nigel's friendly, patient, expert guidance all the way made it not only a great learning experience but an absolute joy from start to finish. The day is centred entirely around what you want to achieve and I couldn't fault a single thing. Outstanding tuition in a beautiful craft - I would strongly recommend this course to anyone who wants to give leatherwork a go. This is absolutely the way to start."

27 Jan 18'

Oli Foulds reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

26 Jan 18'

Michael Spinks reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I recently had a days tuition with Nigel. During this time we covered stitching, pattern making, leather cutting and tools. To start with the improvement in my stitching has been, in my opinion, transformational. I can't recommend that highly enough. Next we covered pattern making, cutting, edging all areas I sought to improve. Essential to avoiding costly mistakes on the more expensive leather. Nigel is wealth of knowledge and extremely open about tools, suppliers on the market. It was an invaluable days training, which I hope to repeat."

18 Dec 17'

Stephen o’hare reviewed: Making a Handmade Belt with Nigel Armitage

"Nigel is an awesome teacher - he knows everything there is to know, is happy to impart this knowledge, he is patient, interesting and also great fun to be with. I could not have enjoyed this course any more than I did. I recommmend this course very highly. Although I had learnt quite a lot on-line, nothing beats actual real world tuition. I now supplement his teaching with his amazing vimeo channel and as a result find myself making headway in learning this amazing craft. Nigel is really passionate about keeping this craft alive and this comes across in all that he does. Money well spent!"

30 Nov 17'

Maynard Haverly reviewed: A General Leatherwork Skill Day

"I traveled from the Pacific Northwest part of the U.S.A. to spend a full five days under the instruction of Nigel. It was time and money well spent and I would not hesitate to do it again. Nigel is a very amicable and multi-talented individual with a great sense or humor and human sensibilities. His knowledge and expertise in the art of leathersmithing is impeccable, and his passion for what he does shows through in his non-intimidating manner of instruction. In our present day and time, where technology has all but erased a great amount of knowledge and skills of once necessary crafts that have all but disappeared, Nigel is one of those rare individuals today who is attempting to carry on and revitalize skills that have a history as far back as has been recorded by humankind. If you want to know how to work in leather, create items of quality, then Nigel Armitage is one who you should seriously consider to guide you into your goals."

25 Nov 17'

Jennifer reviewed: A General Leatherwork Skill Day

"Nigel was a great teacher really enthusiastic and has an brilliant knowledge of his craft. Every process was thoroughly explained and well guided, I never felt overwhelmed. Although there is a lot of techniques to cover (one day can never cover everything!) Nigel will make sure you get the most out of your day. I thought it was definitely worth the price and I now have a new passion in leather work. Refreshments are provided, the coffee is excellent !"

20 Sep 17'

Chris Vine reviewed: Box or tub making

"My leatherwork journey only started in the last year and most of my knowledge had been gained from Nigel’s excellent Youtube tutorials. So he was a natural choice for a one to one tuition. I have almost exclusively have been using pricking irons, to the detriment of gaining awl skills. So I knew Nigel’s tub making course, requiring angling the awl to stitch the end pieces, was going to be ambitious and a challenge for my skill level! The course was structured perfectly for my ability but the day turned out to be much more than a tub making course. Advice was given in a number of areas to improve my techniques and, casting an eye over my toolbox, improvements made to some of my tools. I came away with confidence, inspiration and sufficient understanding to now spend time honing my tub making skills. Nigel’s an excellent, patient teacher and freely imparts his wealth of knowledge. A superb day. Thanks."

17 Jul 17'

Terry Pomeroy reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I spent the day with Nigel, as a complete beginner, I wanted to know pretty much everything! We covered all the items on my list and other topics I hadn't thought about. I even left with my first project 90% complete which I finished at home. Really fulfilling! I feel quite confident that I know the best way to start other projects, with a good degree of knowledge of how to approach them. I am so glad that I booked this day, it has prevented me from making expensive mistakes and saved me time in the long run. While Nigel is super experienced the level of instruction was pitched exactly at the right level for me. Thanks again Nigel!"

2 Jul 17'

Craig McKee reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I could not rate this workshop high enough; it's a shame that it only lets me click excellent! I had been in contact with Nigel prior to my visit to discuss what I wanted. I wanted to make a watch strap for my wife for our anniversary - a project that another leather maker told me would be too difficult and was not prepared to do!! Nigel was clear from the beginning that this was an ambitious project and gave me a variety of options to achieve my goal. From start to end he was extremely patient, knowledgeable, friendly and supportive. The 4 hours flew by and by the end I had achieved such a high quality gift my wife will be truly amazed!! Not only that, he took photos of me creating the piece as we went through which I will collage, print and frame and present as part of our gift. I could not recommend this enough!!"

22 Jun 17'

Fred Mollison reviewed: Traditional Saddle Stitching with Armitage Leather

"This is my second course with Nigel Armitage covering various techniques in leather craft. Namely box stitching, knife sheath templating, rolled edging and piping. A lot to get though in three days. Nigel planned and delivered an excellent instructional package in all of these tasks, allowing me to gain knowledge and heighten my skill level. Giving me the confidence to tackle these projects. He is a credit to his chosen profession and has a obvious passion not only for leather craft, by delivering an excellent standard of instruction at a level gear to the individual under instruction. I would highly recommend anyone interested in this craft to get in touch with him and discuss there needs, as he is only to happy to spent time on the phone, ensuring you get an understanding of your requirements. Thank you Nigel."

8 Jun 17'

John Bacon. reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"Fantastic course. Learned so much on the day, all pitched at the right level. There's one thing being knowledgeable about a given subject, but the skill comes putting that knowledge across. Nigel knows his stuff, there's no arguing that, but the information and techniques are put across at a level which makes them understandable, but more importantly, memorable. We focused primerrily on pattern making from concept design to product. Then cutting and assembly. If you enjoy leather craft, be it professionally, or as I do, purely as a hobby, you will take and remember lots from this course. Friendly, professional and informative. Highly recommended."

21 May 17'

Simon Klood reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I had no experience in Leatherwork but it was a skill I've always wanted to learn and had a project in mind. I had a fantastically enjoyable day. Nigel told me my proposed project was a bit ambitious, but under his expert 1:1 tuition, we designed and made a leatherman and fire starter belt sheath that far exceeded my wildest expectations. I could not stop grinning for the next two days! Nigel works with you, but makes sure that it is you who does the hands-on work. This is the only way to learn. With follow up advise, I feel totally confident to go on my own. I cannot recommend Nigel's course enough. Simon"

24 Mar 17'

David Edwell reviewed: Traditional Saddle Stitching with Armitage Leather

"I booked a one day custom course with Nigel to put me on the right track to make a tote bag for my wife. I am a complete beginner and it is an ambitious project. Nigel was extremely helpful before the course, pointing me at the right leather to use and the tools to buy. I think there a 2 things that make a good teacher. The first is excellent subject matter knowledge and skill, and the second is the ability to convey that skill and knowledge in a constructive fashion. Nigel scores 10/10 on both counts. On top of that he is damn fine fellow to spend the day with. Post course support via email has been a life saver too. Worth every penny. thanks Nigel"

28 Feb 17'

Sunwha reviewed: Traditional Saddle Stitching with Armitage Leather

"I went Nigel's studio for 'wallet making'course for one day , I knew nothing about the leather work and wasn't sure if i could make anything...but surprise : ) I came home with beautiful card wallet! Leather craft man with over 30 years of experience will teach you depend of your level of skills. Choose your course where they teach you from start to end of project. I'm glad that i made right choice to choose Nigel's studio to learn leather work, hoping to go back to learn more very soon!"

17 Feb 17'

Roslyn Whiting reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I recently spent two days with Nigel in his workshop. I have been doing leatherwork for a few years but wanted to perfect my skills and learn new ones. Nigel very quickly worked out what stage I was at and ran the course at the perfect level. He was very willing to share his vast knowledge of leatherwork and suppliers. I was made to feel very relaxed and subsequently learned a great amount. He also included pattern and design process as part of the course. I found this helped me understanding the rules behind a good design. I now feel I will be able to make better quality leathergoods and designs. I look forward to having another course with Nigel sometime. I would highly recommend his courses."

16 Feb 17'

Will Boswell reviewed: Traditional Saddle Stitching with Armitage Leather

"I came over to the UK and arranged a one day training course with Nigel, mainly focused on saddle stitching but also other leatherwork techniques too. I learned most of my skills from Nigel via his youtube channel, but this training was fantastic and worth every penny. His knowledge is vastly superior and if you have the chance to learn from him you will not be disappointed. The day was well structured, and Nigel addressed all of the items I wanted to cover, and he look at my tools and improved them too. I felt like it moved my ability on to a much higher level and I was very happy with the outcome. I'm sure it won't be my last visit."

25 Jan 17'

Luke Strickland reviewed: Making a Handmade Leather Wallet with Nigel Armitage

"Just finished a solid days wallet making course with Nigel today and could not possibly recommend this man more. I was completely new to working with leather and the associated tools and after just one day with the man I now feel like I have a great starting point and base of knowledge with which to begin a lifetime of study. He couldn't be a nicer and more engaging person which obviously made time with him fun and enjoyable as much as invaluable in terms of the knowledge being taught. Suffice to say I will definitely be making the 7 hour round trip to return to the Armitage workshop as many times as I can over the coming years. Thank you Nigel."

6 Jan 17'

Tressa Gilmer reviewed: Traditional Saddle Stitching with Armitage Leather

"Nigel Armitage is a true master of leather craft. He has infinite knowledge to share on the subject, & his passion for teaching is apparent. It is one thing to know a subject, & a whole other thing to teach it to someone. He is hands down the best, most intuitive instructor I have ever met. Learning to saddle stitch and make it applicable to several projects, has changed my life! Super grateful to have learned from him."

3 Jan 17'

Mary Byrne reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I recently spent a day with Nigel in his studio. I went there specifically to learn more about edge finishing. We covered this in great depth and covered loads more stuff as well. As I said to him at the time, it was easily the best money I had spent in a very long time! I was struck by how readily Nigel shared his knowledge and contacts. By the end of the day he had compiled an email for me with his recommended suppliers for all kinds of tools and leather and I've gone on to buy from them. I've learned loads, in a nice environment and from a master. I'm planning to return again (from Ireland) in 2017."

20 Dec 16'

Tub making reviewed: Making a Handmade Leather Wallet with Nigel Armitage

"Patient, extremely informative and well worth every penny. Can't recommend Nigel enough. He has been at the end of an email with advice ever since. Book now with confidence, you will come away with a mind boggling amount of knowledge and not regret time we'll spent. Make a meen cup of coffee too......."

20 Dec 16'

Introduction to Leatherwork with Nigel Armitage reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"I had never worked with leather and my experience of using a needle was when I occasionally sewed holes in clothes. Suddenly at the age of 38 I find myself feeling like a school boy because I have no idea what I should be doing and to be honest it was a pleasant change to feel out of my comfort zone. Nigel showed me the basics and within an hour and a half I had learnt something totally new and I had created something small but beautiful a leather key ring with a brass ring. In the space of an hour and a half I became hooked with the thought that I might actually be able to to more. Nigel is an excellent tutor in leather work and put me at ease when I wasn't sure what I was doing and explained in simple ways about various tools and methods for crafting and working the leather. I'm now looking forward to owning my own tools and working with Nige again soon to create something new. I would definitely recommend Nige to anybody who fancies a new challenge or is interested in leather work."

20 Dec 16'

Hondo Sinclair reviewed: Making a Handmade Belt with Nigel Armitage

"Day three of my week with Nigel involved this course. I had an absolute grand time making the I am currently wearing and will wear for years. Nigel explained everything before we began, and his keen eye observed me at every step to facilitate a quality leather item that I can proudly show off and also use as an example. Nigel is truly in a class of his own! Everyone want to take a leather course need not look further than Armitage Leather."

20 Dec 16'

Hondo Sinclair reviewed: Introduction to leatherwork with Armitage Leather

"During my recent week with Nigel, day one not only included correct my stitching technique, but we also discussed measuring, cutting and marking leather. It was in awe of what I encountered and learned in one day with Nigel. His approach ensures the student takes the skills home to be continued! One never feels his instruction will be forgotten the following day. His style of teaching is done in such a manner that information seeps in to remain. I cannot recommend enough the need to spend time with this incredible mentor."

20 Dec 16'

Hondo Sinclair reviewed: Traditional Saddle Stitching with Armitage Leather

"I recently spent a week with Nigel and day one involved Saddle Stitching. My previous stitching technique was horrid and after a very short period of time due to Nigel's instruction, my stitching took on a much better look. Nigel's ability to instruct is in a league all it's own! He is patient and an exemplary teacher. While most of us are in the leather industry through passion, Nigel makes learning a true pleasure."