Structured, workshop-tested leathercraft guides covering tools, edge finishing, stitching techniques, and practical knowledge for serious makers in the UK.
To burnish leather edges with Tokonole: cut the edge cleanly, bevel both sides with an edge beveller, sand through medium and fine grit, apply a small amount of Tokonole, and burnish immediately with firm back-and-forth strokes. The friction compresses the fibres into a smooth, dense edge. Repeat as needed; stop when the edge is compact and consistent.
For most hand leatherwork, a contact adhesive is the right choice — applied to both surfaces, allowed to become tacky, then pressed firmly together. Renia Aquilim 315 suits general assembly work; Aquilim 330 for maximum bond strength; Aquilim GL for a water-based option. Fiebing’s Leathercraft Cement is a reliable starting choice for beginners.
A pricking iron sets the stitch spacing and hole profile for all hand stitching. French-style irons produce narrow, slanted slits. Diamond-style irons produce diamond-shaped holes. The finished appearance also depends on spacing, thread, leather and stitching technique. Spacing — typically 3mm to 4mm for most hand leatherwork — should match the leather weight and thread size.
Leather edge finishing is a five-step sequence: cut the edge cleanly, bevel both sides with an edge beveller, sand through progressively finer grits, apply a small amount of burnishing compound, and burnish with firm, consistent strokes. Each step prepares the edge for the next. Skipping the bevel step makes a proper rounded finish impossible.
Tokonole and Gum Tragacanth are both water-based edge burnishing compounds for vegetable-tanned leather. Tokonole gives a slightly more polished, consistent result and is available in clear, brown, and black. Gum Tragacanth is the traditional product, giving a slightly drier, more natural finish. For most makers, Tokonole is the more predictable starting choice.
A free printable leathercraft starter checklist for UK makers — available in a quick-reference version and a full guide with notes, tips, and leather guidance. No fluff, no American suppliers.
A complete guide to Renia Aquilim water-based adhesives for leathercraft — covering all four products, which to choose, how to use them, and what to know about storage.
Turn a standard arbor press into a far more versatile leatherworking tool with the Hideout Craft Adapter Set. This guide explains how the system works in real workshop use — from die cutting and flat pressing to rivet setters, logo stamps, and threaded letter stamp systems using M8, M5, and 1/4″ UNC tooling.