FAQs
what items do you make?
Handbags, totes, messenger bags, rucksacks, briefcases, laptop bags, clutches - all types of bag. Plus wallets, purses, cardholders, travel wallets, aprons, belts, bookmarks, coasters, belt pouches, journal covers, kindle cases, decorative items and costume pieces like masks, hats and armour.
I can offer a range of patterns, usually from established commercial designers. I do make items from my own patterns, but designing everything from scratch will inevitably take much longer and cost more.
For details of ordering an item not currently available, please see
Do you make everything yourself?
Yes, I make everything myself here in Lincolnshire.
what sewing machine do you use?
I don't. All stitching is done by hand.
Do you do repairs?
I don't offer repairs or adjustments on any product I have not made myself. For local repairs/restoration please look at:
Lincs Repair https://www.lincsrepair.co.uk/ Car seats, furniture, motorcycle leathers, bags (based in Lincoln)
Shedtime Handcrafted Leatherwork https://www.facebook.com/shedtimecrafts Historically accurate reproductions, repairs, restoration
Mark Bushell Master Saddler https://fulbeckcraftcentre.co.uk/mark-bushell Equestrian and repairs (based at Fulbeck)
Anand Shoes of Stamford https://www.anandofstamford.com/ Shoes, boots, bags
what types of leather and other materials do you use?
The leather I use most is cow leather, but I sometimes use goat and pig, and will consider using deer.
I usually use vegetable tanned leather, but I do use chrome tanned or mixed tannage leather too.
(Tanning is the process by which raw hides are turned into usable leather by removing the water from the hides and replacing it with other chemicals. Vegetable tanned leather is made in the traditional way using organic tannics, usually bark, and will take two months or more to complete. Chrome tanned leather is tanned in a matter of days using chromium sulphate compounds.)
Most of my leather is from England, Italy, Spain and South America, I have also used leather from USA and Portugal.
Many hides will show growth marks and natural imperfections, sometimes scars and brands are visible. This makes each bag or leather item completely unique.
I mainly use waxed braided polyester thread for strength and resistance to rot.
Buckles and other hardware are solid brass or good quality metal alloy.
Do you use vegan leather?
No. There are various synthetic leather substitutes, but the vast majority are either wholly polyurethane ie plastic , or even if plant-based most incorporate some sort of plastic as a binder and/or as a finishing layer. It is not clear how long products made from leather substitutes will last. Buying leather avoids unused hides going to landfill, and leather is a very durable material that should give many years of use.
Why don't you have an online shop?
I mainly sell at events like artisan and farmer markets and craft fairs, or work on commissioned orders. My stock changes all the time and keeping an online shop updated with all the individual items, and then closing and reopening it to take account of being at events, is too complicated! I am always happy to give details and images of current stock items, please email or send a direct message.
How can i pay you?
Cash or card at events, cash, card, BACS or Paypal for commissions.
why don't you sell items overseas?
Insurance (I'm not covered for sales to USA or Canada) and stringent customs regulations regarding leather for some countries make it easier to stick to UK-based sales.
Do you do leatherwork classes?
Not at this time.
Please see Shedtime Handcrafted Leatherwork https://www.facebook.com/shedtimecrafts for local basic leatherwork classes.
Is there anything you don't make?
For various reasons, including not using a sewing machine, sizing, CE testing and insurance issues, I do not make any of the following:
- saddlery and equestrian items
- saddlebags for motor or pedal cycles
- luggage straps for cars
- toys
- clothing
- footwear
- collars. leads and harnesses
- weightlifting belts
- fetish or adult items
- armour intended for real or exhibition or re-enactment fighting.
I may be able to refer you to someone who specialises in items mentioned above.