Leather Craft Workshop Days reviews

6 Oct 19'

Marc McDonnell-Jenkins reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"I have done quite a few craft courses over the years, but this was by far the best course I have ever done. Richard is a fabulous, patient teacher, and a wonderful person. We started off with a bit of leather making history, and a walk through the different types of leather, before we started to discuss our requirements with regard to bag design. And then the real fun began. Richard left us alone to do every stage of the process, keeping a careful, watchful eye over us in case we started to go 'wrong'. At no point did I feel that I was under pressure which added hugely to the experience. Each stage of the process was described very well, and we were given the opportunity to practice each stage on pieces of off cut leather before attacking our own bag. Everything you would need to complete the bags was available, as was a huge variety of leathers and threads so that each design is completely unique, which is a real bonus. The workroom was very cosy, and encouraged a real family atmosphere which made conversation with my fellow crafter very easy. At the end of the day we came away with a bag that could easily be seen on any high street selling for a very good price, and left us with a massive sense of pride and amazement at how well we had done. I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone, of any ability, with Richard's help you will come away with a bag to be proud of and perhaps a desire to become a bag designer/maker just like I have. Thank you Richard for the best day I have had in many years."

3 Oct 19'

Cecily Barton reviewed: Make your very own clutch bag/small tablet device case/sleeve

"I have now done two courses with Richard and I've made a lovely tote bag and a fabulous clutch bag. Both get great comments every time I use them. Having such great instructions throughout made both pieces seem easy to make. Richard gives a lot of background information about the leather, where it comes from and how it's made which is fascinating and helps give a better understanding of the product. I'd like to go weekly and make things all the time!!"

2 Oct 19'

Damon Ma reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"Richard is an excellent, patient and knowledgeable teacher whose approachable manner is, I feel, very important for the attendees. I felt free and encouraged to ask any leather craft related questions - without being ridiculed despite my inexperienced. He was very willing to share his leather craft experiences, provided good tips and awareness of potential pitfalls. I would recommend it to anyone who are interested in dipping into leather works, (particularly those whom might feel intimidated by the skills required). Throughout the day course I felt at ease and was able to produce a bag that I am extremely proud of."

29 Sep 19'

Yuen Lau reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"Richard was an excellent teacher. He was super patient and guided me step by step on how to make my bag. He also gave a lot of advice and was experienced to answer all the questions I had. He was also very accommodating so I was able to customise my bag to suit me. I would highly recommend his workshops. I will definitely continue with leathercraft, and he was so lovely about contacting him with any further questions be it in the near future or a few years down the line. Very genuine and very passionate about leathercraft. I am so happy with my crossbody bag I made by hand."

23 Sep 19'

Sylvine Barriere reviewed: Make your very own Tote bag

"Fab day, would do it again. I learnt lots and impressed myself doing a better-than-you-would-find-in-a-shop- bag ;o)"

2 Sep 19'

Angela Zhong reviewed: Small leather goods workshop

"The experience was amazing! I cannot describe how happy I was when I finishing making the belt for my boyfriend. Richard was absolutely brilliant and patient. I was the only one that day for the workshop, so I got an absolute 1-to-1 learning experience from him. Next weekend my boyfriend and I will celebrate our one-year anniversary, I can't wait to see his face when he sees the belt. Thank you very much, I will come back for more leather workshops :-)"

2 Sep 19'

Anna reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"What an amazing 2 days! The 2 day workshop is an amazing introduction to leather craft. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone and everyone! On my 2 days I learned about leather types, how they are tanned (old ways and new), what tools I would use, pattern making and cutting, embossing leather, and the traditional saddle stitch! Richard is a wonderful teacher and very patient, and very knowledgeable. Very hospitable. This 2 day workshop has given me enough practical knowledge and skill to take away and make more; and as I write this, I am multitasking and browsing a website for leather!"

26 Aug 19'

Excellent Tutor and value - highly recommend! reviewed: Make your very own Tote bag

"I attended Richard's 'make your own tote bag' workshop earlier this year and I cannot commend him enough. He is very knowledgeable, and takes the time to explain processes thoroughly. The workshop takes place in an outhouse at the back of his property, which has been kitted out with all the materials and tools needed. His workshop is small enough for you get 1 on 1 guidance, which means you get way more out of the workshop than those hosting groups of 10+. I highly recommend booking one of Richard's workshops; they're great value and you'll get a beautifully crafted piece to take away :)"

26 Aug 19'

Michiel reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"We did the two day leather workshop and it was a real delight. Richard is very patient and clearly explains what you need to do. He gives you a lot of inside info regarding leather and where to get it, what to look out for etc. I can really recommend doing this workshop if you have an interest in leather craft."

20 Aug 19'

Kelly reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"I cannot recommend this course more highly. I received this as a gift and it was brilliant. Richard is an excellent and patient teacher and I loved that he gave instruction but let us do all the making on our own bags. I am so proud of the product I left with and I absolutely cannot wait to start my next project. I would call myself a complete novice too so no experience necessary but Richard gave such great advice about buying leathers and tools also so everything I need to keep making at home. Thank you for a such a great experience."

18 Aug 19'

Emma reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"I really recommend this workshop and Richard's other courses to anyone who enjoys crafts, wants to learn new skills, and likes leather. It's a full day but you come out on the other side having had a great time and with a very good looking bag that you can personalise to just your taste. Richard is a great teacher who is happy to share his extensive knowledge of leather and leather-goods making, and it's fascinating! The techniques you learn in this workshop can be used to create such a variety of other things, you leave happy and inspired!"

10 Aug 19'

Filip reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"My experience on this course was very positive. The course was structured well, I have learnt a lot about leather work in a short time. Starting from leather production process, purchasing/choosing right leather for a project, choosing right tools/their proper use, to making and finishing items. Everything was explained clearly and any questions I had during the process were answered. Richard shared his personal experience and gave advice in developing business as well, which was very useful and insightful for me. I felt that the small number of students made a difference too. During the course I made a key chain, card holder and a belt. Richard was very pleasant, patient and generous with his time. He also offered advice if needed after the course. Being tutored by him was real pleasure. I highly recommend this course. Thanks!"

7 Aug 19'

Mr Bryan reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"My 5 words to describe this course: organised, informative, personalised, practical and supportive all the way through! Richard’s workshop has a range of tools (even traditional/classic ones) and beautiful leather to choose from. It’s unbelievable how much you learn in 2 days for a beginner like myself. I can’t be any prouder of my veg-tanned vintage-style card holder made during the first day of the course. It’s just a joy to contemplate. Thanks to Richard for teaching us such a wonderful craft and making it available to all, as well as his kindness and hospitality. It has been superb experience!"

4 Aug 19'

Linda reviewed: Make your very own Tote bag

"I attended the make a tote bag workshop and would definitely recommend it to others. Richard is an excellent teacher who is knowledgeable and encouraging. I am really pleased with my tote bag and am keen to further develop my skills in working with leather."

1 Aug 19'

Shuk reviewed: Leather Belt Bag Workshop

"Fabulous day spent with an amazing craftsperson. Richard was very thorough with all the different aspects of working with leather. He is a very patient and attentive tutor, I was quite nervous about making mistakes but was reassured all along the way. I absolutely love my new belt bag and hope to make some accessories to go with it one day. I intend to enrol on one of the two day courses in the near future to gain even more skills from the master craftsman. Thank you for the wonderful experience, highly recommended!"

28 Jul 19'

Graham Thompson reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"I have just completed the two day Leather craft practical workshop. And I must say not only did I really enjoy the course but I have come away with a lot more information and knowledge than I expected to. The course explains the whole process from the tannery to selling goods online. Richard explained the use of each and every tool and answered any questions I had, at the end of the first day I had made a card holder and a key fob (both a lot better than I expected). On the second day we started the day with more information that Richard went through with us step by step. I then spent the rest of the day making two belts, one for me and one for my girlfriend both of which came out amazing. I even had time to make a sleeve for my iPhone. Thank you Richard and to anyone reading this review if you want a head start in making leather goods or just want to go home with some cool handmade goods this is the course for you. Graham Thompson"

14 Jul 19'

Nicole reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"The bag pattern is designed cleverly so you can get a professional looking result from your very first attempt. There are options to personalise the look using different leathers and thread, and to customise the size to suit your needs. Good class size, just three people, so everyone could get some individual attention when required. Richard was a very patient and enthusiastic teacher and provided lots of information on sources of leather and equipment if you want to continue with leather work. I had such an enjoyable day and I've have loads of compliments on my satchel, and most people have been surprised to learn that I made it myself in just a day. Highly recommend this course."

7 Jul 19'

Steve Canning reviewed: Make your very own Tote bag

"I can highly recommend this workshop. Richard is a great teacher - patient, kind and willing to share his depth of knowledge and love for Leatherwork. I wouldn’t be exaggerating to say the whole experience was inspirational & has sown a seed in me I plan to nurture in the future. All in all a terrific experience!"

5 Jul 19'

Queendy Lam reviewed: 2 Day Leather Practical Skills Workshop

"This is one of the best practical skills workshops I have ever attended that far exceeded my expectation! The 2 days workshop is well structured with information of leather types, how to buy the leather, where to buy leather, tools and hardware, pattern cutting, what to buy for basic starter tools, and how to set up our online shop when we are ready. Richard is very generous in sharing his professional knowledge in making leather goods. In these 2 days, I learnt how to do saddle stitch, and a lot of other skills to make one card holder, two key fobs, and one belt. All the products are made under Richard's detail instruction and guidance. I always make mistakes and Richard is very patient to show me how to do better. He is a supportive and attentive instructor. The final products made from this workshop are in a skilful finish and probably I can sell them to customers! Besides skill learning which is great, a small class of 2 students is cosy and personal. We had good chatting time during meal breaks and the learning atmosphere is friendly and relaxing. Thank you for Richard's hospitality in providing tea, coffee and snacks. After attending this 2 days leather goods practical skills workshop, I possess the necessary skills to make other leather goods such as tote bag, wallet and tools bag as well. If you want to learn good practical skills to make leather goods, I highly recommend this 2 day workshop to you."

2 Jul 19'

Beatriz reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"I definitely recommend it. I knew nothing about leather and in a day I made such a lovely bag that I can’t even believe it. I took the bag to work today and I had so many compliments! All thanks to Richard, to his patience and guidance! Thank you so much for such a lovely day crafting with leather! I really enjoyed it!"

1 Jul 19'

Carolyn reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"I had a fantastic day making my leather bag on the hottest day. But we were in a very cool workshop at the bottom of Richard's garden. A great experience and would recommend this to anybody. Richard is a great teacher and explains everything well from start to finish. Thank you Richard."

16 Jun 19'

Dom Rudd reviewed: Leather Belt Bag Workshop

"I had a fabulous day with Richard...I was the sole participant and am very grateful that it still ran with just me. I'm really chuffed with my leather belt bag. I wanted it to fit a pair of mini binoculars and a bird identification book and we adapted the size and fittings to suit how I wanted to use it. I learnt so much about leatherwork...I have made a few things myself in the past and wish I'd been to Richard first... and I'm now feeling really confident in where to go for the best leather and kit, how to design and set out ideas, and then to make things. I have a design in mind already. I found Richard's teaching style really engaging. He has a great balance between instruction, information and letting me get on with things. I never felt rushed and I always felt that I could ask questions if I was unsure about things. His approach is to equip people with the skills and confidence to be able to head off on their own and make things. I highly recommend Richard's courses. I'd like to do his 2-day skills course."

15 Jun 19'

Ellie reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"Brilliant course! Richard is very knowledgeable and able to help adjust the design to my specific dimensions. Really enjoyed the whole day and really happy with my bag!"

14 Jun 19'

Shoko Tada reviewed: Make your very own Tote bag

"Excellent workshop. In a day, I leant so much about leather, tools to use for making leather goods, and how to use them. I somehow expected that I had to choose leather from very limited range or work on already pre-cut leather swatches, but actually it was much better experience as Richard let us choose the leather type / color and have flexibility of sizes etc. Highly recommended"

11 Jun 19'

Denise reviewed: Make your very own crossbody/messenger bag

"What a fantastic workshop day! I am completely thrilled with my cross body bag. It is even better than I had hoped and I seem to have achieved something of a professional finish. Richard is incredibly knowlegeable, helpful and generous with his guidance - especially as I wanted to make a very specific shape of bag. Richard talked through different types of leather and the processes and was very encouraging as I used all the different tools required. I've come away feeling equipped with skills to make my own leather items in future. It was wonderful to 'make' in Richard's workshop, such a fascinating and inspiring space. Highly recommend this course."