Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company

Everything you need for making leather dog collars and leads

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you’re looking to craft high-quality, timeless leather dog collars and leads, this guide is for you! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced maker, we’ll take you through every step of the process—from selecting the best leather and hardware to cutting, stitching, and finishing your designs. Leather is a durable and stylish material that, when crafted with care, creates long-lasting accessories for dogs of all sizes. With our expert tips and techniques, you’ll be able to produce beautiful, handcrafted pieces that are both functional and built to last. Let’s get started!

Safety note – we always advise that customers take the appropriate courses to ensure the safety of the pet and handler.
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company

_________________________________________________

OUR CONTRIBUTOR

Paul Murphy is the owner of The Traditional Leather Lead Company and uses traditional saddlery methods to handcraft bridle leather dog ware for both the professional and companion dog markets.

Paul has a lifetime of dog handling and training experience in a huge variety of disciplines and has been making leather items since his early teens. He uses his knowledge of dog training, and the skills developed over his lifetime in his craft, as he knows what works and what doesn't.

He currently supplies over 30 UK police dog units, and several UK and overseas prison dog sections with his equipment.
Based in a humble workshop in rural Warwickshire, Paul is passionate about making the right piece of equipment, for the right set of circumstances.

LEATHER

Bridle butt leather is the best choice for making collars and leads. For longer leads you may want to use bridle back leather.

Please note, some bridle leather can be prone to water-spotting.

​Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart
Leather is an excellent choice for making dog collars and leads due to its durability, comfort, and timeless appeal. Its natural strength ensures reliability, making it a secure option for dogs of all sizes, while its soft, flexible texture helps prevent chafing and irritation. Unlike synthetic materials, high-quality leather is biodegradable and ages beautifully, developing a unique patina over time. 
It also offers endless customisation options, from dyeing and engraving to hand-stitching, allowing for truly unique designs. With proper care, leather products can last for years, making them a worthwhile investment for both pet owners and professional makers. Combining tradition, craftsmanship, and practicality, leather remains a top choice for those seeking stylish, long-lasting, and eco-friendly dog accessories.

TOP TIP

_______________________________

When punching through leather, ensure you use a sturdy workbench and place a cutting board or thick scrap leather underneath to protect your tools and work surface.
A firm, stable surface will help you achieve clean holes without damaging your punch or causing unnecessary strain on your hands.

PADDED DOG COLLARS

To make a padded dog collar, use soft plastazote or 4mm PVC foam lining and nappa basil hide (or anything between 0.6mm and 0.8mm thickness). See a how-to video further down the page.
Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart

TOP TIP

____________________________________________

For shaped collars, cut you foam into a strip first and slightly wider than the collar - 1/16” to 1/8” wider – and then use a ball point pen at a slight angle to draw around the collar to get the exact shape for your padding.

THREAD

Use Ritza 44 for machine sewing and for hand sewing use Ritza 25, also known as Tiger thread, or Ritza 20.
Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart
TIPS FOR SEWING LEATHER
​
  • Use the Right Needle – A leather needle is essential for piercing through leather cleanly without tearing.
  • Choose Strong Thread – Bonded nylon or polyester thread is ideal for leather, as it’s durable and resists fraying.
  • Go Slow and Steady – Leather doesn’t forgive mistakes like fabric, so take your time and guide it smoothly through the machine.

HARDWEAR

TOOLS

To make a dog collar or lead, we recommend the following tools:
Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart

TOP TIP

Ensure your leather punches are kept sharp to achieve clean, precise holes and prevent rough or frayed edges. Dull punches can tear the leather rather than cutting through it smooth. Regularly sharpening or replacing your punches will help maintain a professional finish.

HOW TO FINISH THE EDGES ON A COLLAR AND LEAD

Finishing the edges of a leather dog collar and lead gives them a professional, polished look while also increasing durability. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Trim and Sand the Edges
  • Use a sharp knife or edge beveler to round off sharp edges.
  • Smooth the edges with sandpaper for a clean finish.
2. Burnish the Edges (For Veg-Tan and Bridle Leather)
  • Lightly dampen the edges with water or use a burnishing solution.
  • Rub with a burnishing tool (wooden slicker, bone folder, or canvas cloth) until the edges become smooth and glossy.
3. Apply Edge Dye or Paint (Optional for a More Defined Look)
  • If you want a more polished or colored edge, apply edge dye or acrylic edge paint in thin layers.
  • Allow each layer to dry before lightly sanding and applying the next coat.
4. Apply Beeswax or Gum Tragacanth
  • Rub beeswax or gum tragacanth along the edges and buff with a cloth or burnisher for a smooth, sealed finish.
5. Final Buffing
  • Once dry, give the edges a final buff with a soft cloth to enhance shine and smoothness.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS YOU MAY NEED

PAUL'S ESSENTIALS FOR DOG COLLARS AND LEADS

LEATHER



Sedgwick bridle butts or bridle backs (rein backs for thicker pieces). I use backs, as they serve my purposes better, allowing me to make longer leads. Also leaves me with plenty of offcuts for other projects.
Hover image

SEDGWICK BRIDLE BUTT


Hover image

SEDGWICK BRIDLE BACK


1 METER STEEL RULER

A precise and durable tool, essential for ensuring accuracy and providing a straight edge when cutting or measuring a new hide, allowing for clean, professional lines and ensuring perfect dimensions for your leather crafting projects.

STANLEY KNIFE

A versatile and highly reliable cutting tool, specifically designed for precision and control, making it ideal for creating clean, straight edges on a new hide. With its sharp, replaceable blade, it allows you to easily cut through various thicknesses of leather with minimal effort, ensuring that your cuts are smooth, accurate, and free from jagged edges.

STRAP CUTTER

A specialised tool designed to provide consistent, uniform widths when cutting leather straps, ensuring that each piece is precisely measured and tailored for your project. This tool is invaluable for achieving professional-quality results, as it allows you to effortlessly cut through hides with accuracy and ease, producing straps that are perfectly symmetrical from start to finish.
Hover image

STRAP CUTTER

EDGE CREASE

A vital tool in leatherworking that not only adds a polished, professional finish to the edges of your leather projects but also serves a functional purpose in guiding your stitching. When applied to the edges of a leather piece, the edge crease creates a subtle yet distinct indentation, giving the leather a refined, crisp look
Hover image

SCREW CREASE

EDGE BEVELLER



An essential tool in leather crafting, designed to precisely remove sharp, uneven edges from a freshly cut strap, transforming it into a smooth, rounded surface. ( I use number 4 or 2 depending on the peice)
Hover image

EDGE SHAVE

LEATHER DYE



A crucial element in the finishing process of leather crafting, used to add vibrant color and depth to the edges of leather once they have been properly prepared. The edges of leather items, such as collars, straps, and wallets, often require special attention to ensure they blend seamlessly with the rest of the piece, giving it a polished, uniform look. ( I use powder dye as its more cost effective.)
Hover image

LEATHER DYE

WOOL DAUBERS


A simple yet highly effective tool used for the precise and even application of leather dye, particularly when working on smaller areas such as the edges of leather pieces.
Hover image

WOOL DAUBERS

BEES WAX

A natural, versatile substance that plays an essential role in the leatherworking process, particularly when it comes to burnishing and sealing the edges of your leather projects. When applied to the edges of leather, beeswax helps to create a smooth, polished finish while simultaneously protecting the leather from moisture, wear, and environmental damage.
Many leatherworkers also combine it with gum tragacanth, a natural gum that has similar burnishing properties but provides an even smoother and more consistent finish. The combination of beeswax and gum tragacanth can be particularly beneficial for achieving a deeper, more durable seal and a shinier, more polished edge, especially on high-end or premium leather goods.
Hover image

BEES WAX

Hover image

CARNAUBA CREME

WOODEN EDGE BURNISHER

A highly effective and traditional tool used in the final stages of leather crafting, specifically designed for burnishing and sealing the prepared edges of leather projects. This tool is crafted from smooth, durable wood and features a rounded or tapered end that allows for precise, controlled application of pressure to the edges of the leather, smoothing out any imperfections while giving the leather a beautifully polished and refined finish. (I use a motorised version to speed things up, as I hate burnishing!)
Hover image

MULTI SIZE WOOD SLICKER

SADDLERS CLAM

An essential, time-tested tool used to securely hold leather straps or pieces in place while stitching, providing the leatherworker with the stability and control needed to achieve precise, even stitches. The saddler's clam consists of two adjustable wooden jaws, often crafted from hard, durable wood, which open and close to clamp down on the leather, holding it firmly without damaging or marking the surface. (I made my own many years ago to my own specs)
Hover image

SADDLERS CLAM

JOHN JAMES HARNESS NEEDLES

A premium-quality, meticulously crafted tool designed specifically for leatherworking, particularly for hand stitching heavy leather goods and other durable leather items. These needles are renowned in the leathercraft community for their strength, precision, and durability, making them an essential choice for leatherworkers who demand the highest standards in their stitching projects. (number 4 – Perfect size for my purposes)
Hover image

HARNESS NEEDLES

ROUND/HEAD KNIFE

The round or head knife is an essential tool used in leatherworking for precise and accurate cutting of leather. Its curved, sharp blade allows leatherworkers to make intricate cuts with great control, ensuring clean and smooth edges. In addition to cutting, the round knife is also invaluable for skiving, a technique where the leather's thickness is reduced by shaving off thin layers from the edges or surface. This tool's versatility makes it indispensable for a variety of leather projects, from creating detailed designs to preparing leather for stitching or other finishes.
Hover image

ROUND KNIFE


Hover image

HEAD KNIFE


WHETSTONE



A whetstone is an essential tool in any leatherworker's toolkit, used to maintain and enhance the sharpness of tools such as the head knife. Regular use of a whetstone ensures that the blade remains razor-sharp, allowing for clean, precise cuts and reducing the effort required during leather cutting or skiving. The stone works by gradually grinding and honing the edge of the blade, restoring its sharpness over time.

CUTTING BOARD

A cutting board is an indispensable tool in leatherworking, serving as a protective surface for the workbench during the cutting process. Leather is a dense and durable material, and using a cutting board helps preserve the integrity of the workbench by preventing damage from sharp blades and cutting tools.
Hover image

CUTTING BOARD


PRICKING IRON

Pricking irons are a crucial tool in the leatherworking process, specifically designed to mark stitching holes with precision and consistency. These irons feature multiple sharp, evenly spaced tines or teeth that create uniform holes in the leather, making them ideal for preparing leather for hand stitching. When pressed into the leather, pricking irons leave a series of small, evenly spaced indentations, which not only guide the needle but also ensure that the stitches are aligned perfectly, creating a clean and professional finish. (I generally use 4mm irons, however I have a selection of sizes depending on the purpose and look required)
Hover image

DIAMOND PRICKING IRON


Hover image

PRICKING IRON


0.8MM TIGER THREAD

0.8mm Tiger thread is a highly versatile and popular thread choice among leatherworkers, particularly for crafting durable and functional leather goods, such as dogware. This thickness strikes an ideal balance between strength and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of projects, from collars and leads to harnesses and more.
Hover image

0.8MM TIGER THREAD


WOODEN AWL HAFT

A wooden awl haft is an essential tool in the leatherworking and crafting world, designed specifically to securely hold an awl blade for precision tasks. The haft, which is typically made from high-quality hardwood such as oak or beech, serves as the handle that provides the necessary leverage and control when using the awl for tasks like piercing, marking, or hole-punching through leather or other materials. The ergonomic design of the haft allows for a comfortable grip, making it easier for artisans to maintain steady pressure and control during detailed work, reducing the likelihood of hand fatigue during prolonged use.
Hover image

AWL HANDLE


DIAMOND AWL BLADE

The 3-inch diamond awl blade is a specialised tool in the leatherworker's kit, designed specifically for expanding and opening up the holes made by pricking irons, which is a critical step when preparing leather for hand stitching. This blade features a diamond-shaped point that allows for precise control when working with leather, ensuring that the holes are not only aligned but also the correct size to accommodate the stitching thread. (the 3 inch blade is my go-to length for dog ware)
Hover image

AWL BLADE


NEEDLE NOSED PLIERS




Needle-nosed pliers are an indispensable tool for leatherworkers, specifically designed to assist in pulling a needle through tough or thick leather, where manual effort alone might fall short. The long, slender jaws of these pliers are perfect for gripping and maneuvering needles in tight spaces, allowing the artisan to maintain a strong, controlled hold on the needle while stitching through dense or rigid materials.

LIGHTER

A lighter is a simple yet essential tool for leatherworkers, particularly for sealing the cut thread strands after stitching is complete. After finishing a hand-stitched project, the loose ends of the thread must be carefully secured to prevent them from unraveling or loosening over time. The lighter is used to melt the end of the thread, causing it to fuse together and create a small, solid bead that will hold the stitch securely in place. This process not only prevents the thread from fraying or coming undone but also gives the finished piece a clean, polished appearance by ensuring the thread ends are neatly contained and invisible.

COPPER RIVETS & WASHERS

Copper rivets and washers are essential components in leatherworking, often used as an alternative to stitching for securing parts of leather goods, such as dog collars, leads and straps. These rivets are designed to provide a strong, reliable, and visually appealing method of fastening leather pieces together, offering both function and aesthetic value to the final product. Copper is particularly favored in leatherworking for its attractive, warm tone and its resistance to corrosion, ensuring that the rivets maintain their strength and appearance over time, even in outdoor or high-moisture environments.
Hover image

COPPER RIVETS


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COPPER RIVET WASHERS


RIVET SETTER

A rivet setter is a crucial tool in leatherworking, designed specifically to securely attach rivets to leather projects. It provides the necessary force and precision to ensure that rivets are firmly fixed in place, creating a strong and reliable bond between layers of leather without the risk of slipping or loosening over time. Typically used in conjunction with copper rivets and washers, the rivet setter is an essential tool for anyone who works with heavy-duty leather items such as dog collars, belts, straps, bags, and more.
Hover image

COPPER RIVET SETTER


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YOUR QUICK GUIDE TO SETTING RIVETS


5KG ANVIL




A 5kg anvil is an indispensable tool for any leatherworker, metalworker, or artisan who requires a stable, durable surface for heavy-duty tasks such as setting copper rivets and stamping a maker's mark. The weight and solid structure of the 5kg anvil provide a firm and reliable base that allows for the precise application of force required in these processes.

BALL PEIN HAMMER



The ball pein hammer is an essential tool in the toolkit of any leatherworker, metalworker, or artisan, designed to perform a variety of critical functions in the crafting process. This versatile hammer is typically characterized by its flat striking face on one side and a rounded, domed surface (the "pein") on the other, which makes it incredibly useful for a wide range of tasks, particularly when working with rivets, punches, and shaping metal or leather components.

One of the primary uses of the ball pein hammer in leatherworking is for striking the rivet setter. When installing copper rivets, it's necessary to apply significant force to compress the rivet and washer securely into place. 

ESSENTIAL DOG COLLAR KIT



To make a dog lead you will need the following materials:

Most of the above, plus...
  • Cast brass trigger hook – size dependant on the width of the strap
  • Brass standard harness ring – Fitted to the leash handle prior to stitching/riveting. Allows the lead to be secured around the body when free-running a dog. Also allows for the lead to be secured around a leg when taking your dog to the pub!
  • Rivets or tiger thread and associated tools - depending on how you wish to secure the lead  (I prefer a stitched lead, as I love the finished look)
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company

ESSENTIAL DOG LEAD KIT



To make a dog collar you will need the following materials:

Most of the above, plus...
  • Rotary punch/crew punch/drive punch– For making collar sizing holes and holes for rivets where used. (Punch type depends on application)
  • Wing dividers – for marking uniformed sizing holes. Can also use a ruler, but this can result in uneven hole spacing. Dividers can also be used for marking a uniformed stitching line where needed
  • Cast brass dog collar dee – Deeper aperture for attaching a leash than standard dees
  • Cast brass single roller buckle – To secure the collar onto the dog's neck
  • Rivets or tiger thread and associated tools - depending on how you wish to secure the collar (I typically stitch collars, as I believe it gives a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing finish)
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company

Everything you need for making leather dog collars and leads

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you’re looking to craft high-quality, timeless leather dog collars and leads, this guide is for you! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced maker, we’ll take you through every step of the process—from selecting the best leather and hardware to cutting, stitching, and finishing your designs. Leather is a durable and stylish material that, when crafted with care, creates long-lasting accessories for dogs of all sizes. With our expert tips and techniques, you’ll be able to produce beautiful, handcrafted pieces that are both functional and built to last. Let’s get started!

Safety note – we always advise that customers take the appropriate courses to ensure the safety of the pet and handler.
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company

_________________________________________________

OUR CONTRIBUTOR

Paul Murphy is the owner of The Traditional Leather Lead Company and uses traditional saddlery methods to handcraft bridle leather dog ware for both the professional and companion dog markets.

Paul has a lifetime of dog handling and training experience in a huge variety of disciplines and has been making leather items since his early teens. He uses his knowledge of dog training, and the skills developed over his lifetime in his craft, as he knows what works and what doesn't.

He currently supplies over 30 UK police dog units, and several UK and overseas prison dog sections with his equipment.
Based in a humble workshop in rural Warwickshire, Paul is passionate about making the right piece of equipment, for the right set of circumstances.

LEATHER

Bridle butt leather is the best choice for making collars and leads. For longer leads you may want to use bridle back leather.

Please note, some bridle leather can be prone to water-spotting.

​Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart
Leather is an excellent choice for making dog collars and leads due to its durability, comfort, and timeless appeal. Its natural strength ensures reliability, making it a secure option for dogs of all sizes, while its soft, flexible texture helps prevent chafing and irritation. Unlike synthetic materials, high-quality leather is biodegradable and ages beautifully, developing a unique patina over time. 
It also offers endless customisation options, from dyeing and engraving to hand-stitching, allowing for truly unique designs. With proper care, leather products can last for years, making them a worthwhile investment for both pet owners and professional makers. Combining tradition, craftsmanship, and practicality, leather remains a top choice for those seeking stylish, long-lasting, and eco-friendly dog accessories.

TOP TIP

_______________________________

When punching through leather, ensure you use a sturdy workbench and place a cutting board or thick scrap leather underneath to protect your tools and work surface.
A firm, stable surface will help you achieve clean holes without damaging your punch or causing unnecessary strain on your hands.

PADDED DOG COLLARS

To make a padded dog collar, use soft plastazote or 4mm PVC foam lining and nappa basil hide (or anything between 0.6mm and 0.8mm thickness). See a how-to video further down the page.
Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart

TOP TIP

____________________________________________

For shaped collars, cut you foam into a strip first and slightly wider than the collar - 1/16” to 1/8” wider – and then use a ball point pen at a slight angle to draw around the collar to get the exact shape for your padding.

THREAD

Use Ritza 44 for machine sewing and for hand sewing use Ritza 25, also known as Tiger thread, or Ritza 20.
Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart
TIPS FOR SEWING LEATHER
​
  • Use the Right Needle – A leather needle is essential for piercing through leather cleanly without tearing.
  • Choose Strong Thread – Bonded nylon or polyester thread is ideal for leather, as it’s durable and resists fraying.
  • Go Slow and Steady – Leather doesn’t forgive mistakes like fabric, so take your time and guide it smoothly through the machine.

HARDWEAR

TOOLS

To make a dog collar or lead, we recommend the following tools:
Click the button ‘View product’ to see the price and add to cart

TOP TIP

Ensure your leather punches are kept sharp to achieve clean, precise holes and prevent rough or frayed edges. Dull punches can tear the leather rather than cutting through it smooth. Regularly sharpening or replacing your punches will help maintain a professional finish.

HOW TO FINISH THE EDGES ON A COLLAR AND LEAD

Finishing the edges of a leather dog collar and lead gives them a professional, polished look while also increasing durability. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Trim and Sand the Edges
  • Use a sharp knife or edge beveler to round off sharp edges.
  • Smooth the edges with sandpaper for a clean finish.
2. Burnish the Edges (For Veg-Tan and Bridle Leather)
  • Lightly dampen the edges with water or use a burnishing solution.
  • Rub with a burnishing tool (wooden slicker, bone folder, or canvas cloth) until the edges become smooth and glossy.
3. Apply Edge Dye or Paint (Optional for a More Defined Look)
  • If you want a more polished or colored edge, apply edge dye or acrylic edge paint in thin layers.
  • Allow each layer to dry before lightly sanding and applying the next coat.
4. Apply Beeswax or Gum Tragacanth
  • Rub beeswax or gum tragacanth along the edges and buff with a cloth or burnisher for a smooth, sealed finish.
5. Final Buffing
  • Once dry, give the edges a final buff with a soft cloth to enhance shine and smoothness.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS YOU MAY NEED

PAUL'S ESSENTIALS FOR DOG COLLARS AND LEADS

LEATHER



Sedgwick bridle butts or bridle backs (rein backs for thicker pieces). I use backs, as they serve my purposes better, allowing me to make longer leads. Also leaves me with plenty of offcuts for other projects.
Hover image

SEDGWICK BRIDLE BUTT


Hover image

SEDGWICK BRIDLE BACK


1 METER STEEL RULER

A precise and durable tool, essential for ensuring accuracy and providing a straight edge when cutting or measuring a new hide, allowing for clean, professional lines and ensuring perfect dimensions for your leather crafting projects.

STANLEY KNIFE

A versatile and highly reliable cutting tool, specifically designed for precision and control, making it ideal for creating clean, straight edges on a new hide. With its sharp, replaceable blade, it allows you to easily cut through various thicknesses of leather with minimal effort, ensuring that your cuts are smooth, accurate, and free from jagged edges.

STRAP CUTTER

A specialised tool designed to provide consistent, uniform widths when cutting leather straps, ensuring that each piece is precisely measured and tailored for your project. This tool is invaluable for achieving professional-quality results, as it allows you to effortlessly cut through hides with accuracy and ease, producing straps that are perfectly symmetrical from start to finish.
Hover image

STRAP CUTTER

EDGE CREASE

A vital tool in leatherworking that not only adds a polished, professional finish to the edges of your leather projects but also serves a functional purpose in guiding your stitching. When applied to the edges of a leather piece, the edge crease creates a subtle yet distinct indentation, giving the leather a refined, crisp look
Hover image

SCREW CREASE

EDGE BEVELLER



An essential tool in leather crafting, designed to precisely remove sharp, uneven edges from a freshly cut strap, transforming it into a smooth, rounded surface. ( I use number 4 or 2 depending on the peice)
Hover image

EDGE SHAVE

LEATHER DYE



A crucial element in the finishing process of leather crafting, used to add vibrant color and depth to the edges of leather once they have been properly prepared. The edges of leather items, such as collars, straps, and wallets, often require special attention to ensure they blend seamlessly with the rest of the piece, giving it a polished, uniform look. ( I use powder dye as its more cost effective.)
Hover image

LEATHER DYE

WOOL DAUBERS


A simple yet highly effective tool used for the precise and even application of leather dye, particularly when working on smaller areas such as the edges of leather pieces.
Hover image

WOOL DAUBERS

BEES WAX

A natural, versatile substance that plays an essential role in the leatherworking process, particularly when it comes to burnishing and sealing the edges of your leather projects. When applied to the edges of leather, beeswax helps to create a smooth, polished finish while simultaneously protecting the leather from moisture, wear, and environmental damage.
Many leatherworkers also combine it with gum tragacanth, a natural gum that has similar burnishing properties but provides an even smoother and more consistent finish. The combination of beeswax and gum tragacanth can be particularly beneficial for achieving a deeper, more durable seal and a shinier, more polished edge, especially on high-end or premium leather goods.
Hover image

BEES WAX

Hover image

CARNAUBA CREME

WOODEN EDGE BURNISHER

A highly effective and traditional tool used in the final stages of leather crafting, specifically designed for burnishing and sealing the prepared edges of leather projects. This tool is crafted from smooth, durable wood and features a rounded or tapered end that allows for precise, controlled application of pressure to the edges of the leather, smoothing out any imperfections while giving the leather a beautifully polished and refined finish. (I use a motorised version to speed things up, as I hate burnishing!)
Hover image

MULTI SIZE WOOD SLICKER

SADDLERS CLAM

An essential, time-tested tool used to securely hold leather straps or pieces in place while stitching, providing the leatherworker with the stability and control needed to achieve precise, even stitches. The saddler's clam consists of two adjustable wooden jaws, often crafted from hard, durable wood, which open and close to clamp down on the leather, holding it firmly without damaging or marking the surface. (I made my own many years ago to my own specs)
Hover image

SADDLERS CLAM

JOHN JAMES HARNESS NEEDLES

A premium-quality, meticulously crafted tool designed specifically for leatherworking, particularly for hand stitching heavy leather goods and other durable leather items. These needles are renowned in the leathercraft community for their strength, precision, and durability, making them an essential choice for leatherworkers who demand the highest standards in their stitching projects. (number 4 – Perfect size for my purposes)
Hover image

HARNESS NEEDLES

ROUND/HEAD KNIFE

The round or head knife is an essential tool used in leatherworking for precise and accurate cutting of leather. Its curved, sharp blade allows leatherworkers to make intricate cuts with great control, ensuring clean and smooth edges. In addition to cutting, the round knife is also invaluable for skiving, a technique where the leather's thickness is reduced by shaving off thin layers from the edges or surface. This tool's versatility makes it indispensable for a variety of leather projects, from creating detailed designs to preparing leather for stitching or other finishes.
Hover image

ROUND KNIFE


Hover image

HEAD KNIFE


WHETSTONE



A whetstone is an essential tool in any leatherworker's toolkit, used to maintain and enhance the sharpness of tools such as the head knife. Regular use of a whetstone ensures that the blade remains razor-sharp, allowing for clean, precise cuts and reducing the effort required during leather cutting or skiving. The stone works by gradually grinding and honing the edge of the blade, restoring its sharpness over time.

CUTTING BOARD

A cutting board is an indispensable tool in leatherworking, serving as a protective surface for the workbench during the cutting process. Leather is a dense and durable material, and using a cutting board helps preserve the integrity of the workbench by preventing damage from sharp blades and cutting tools.
Hover image

CUTTING BOARD


PRICKING IRON

Pricking irons are a crucial tool in the leatherworking process, specifically designed to mark stitching holes with precision and consistency. These irons feature multiple sharp, evenly spaced tines or teeth that create uniform holes in the leather, making them ideal for preparing leather for hand stitching. When pressed into the leather, pricking irons leave a series of small, evenly spaced indentations, which not only guide the needle but also ensure that the stitches are aligned perfectly, creating a clean and professional finish. (I generally use 4mm irons, however I have a selection of sizes depending on the purpose and look required)
Hover image

DIAMOND PRICKING IRON


Hover image

PRICKING IRON


0.8MM TIGER THREAD

0.8mm Tiger thread is a highly versatile and popular thread choice among leatherworkers, particularly for crafting durable and functional leather goods, such as dogware. This thickness strikes an ideal balance between strength and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of projects, from collars and leads to harnesses and more.
Hover image

0.8MM TIGER THREAD


WOODEN AWL HAFT

A wooden awl haft is an essential tool in the leatherworking and crafting world, designed specifically to securely hold an awl blade for precision tasks. The haft, which is typically made from high-quality hardwood such as oak or beech, serves as the handle that provides the necessary leverage and control when using the awl for tasks like piercing, marking, or hole-punching through leather or other materials. The ergonomic design of the haft allows for a comfortable grip, making it easier for artisans to maintain steady pressure and control during detailed work, reducing the likelihood of hand fatigue during prolonged use.
Hover image

AWL HANDLE


DIAMOND AWL BLADE

The 3-inch diamond awl blade is a specialised tool in the leatherworker's kit, designed specifically for expanding and opening up the holes made by pricking irons, which is a critical step when preparing leather for hand stitching. This blade features a diamond-shaped point that allows for precise control when working with leather, ensuring that the holes are not only aligned but also the correct size to accommodate the stitching thread. (the 3 inch blade is my go-to length for dog ware)
Hover image

AWL BLADE


NEEDLE NOSED PLIERS




Needle-nosed pliers are an indispensable tool for leatherworkers, specifically designed to assist in pulling a needle through tough or thick leather, where manual effort alone might fall short. The long, slender jaws of these pliers are perfect for gripping and maneuvering needles in tight spaces, allowing the artisan to maintain a strong, controlled hold on the needle while stitching through dense or rigid materials.

LIGHTER

A lighter is a simple yet essential tool for leatherworkers, particularly for sealing the cut thread strands after stitching is complete. After finishing a hand-stitched project, the loose ends of the thread must be carefully secured to prevent them from unraveling or loosening over time. The lighter is used to melt the end of the thread, causing it to fuse together and create a small, solid bead that will hold the stitch securely in place. This process not only prevents the thread from fraying or coming undone but also gives the finished piece a clean, polished appearance by ensuring the thread ends are neatly contained and invisible.

COPPER RIVETS & WASHERS

Copper rivets and washers are essential components in leatherworking, often used as an alternative to stitching for securing parts of leather goods, such as dog collars, leads and straps. These rivets are designed to provide a strong, reliable, and visually appealing method of fastening leather pieces together, offering both function and aesthetic value to the final product. Copper is particularly favored in leatherworking for its attractive, warm tone and its resistance to corrosion, ensuring that the rivets maintain their strength and appearance over time, even in outdoor or high-moisture environments.
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COPPER RIVETS


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COPPER RIVET WASHERS


RIVET SETTER

A rivet setter is a crucial tool in leatherworking, designed specifically to securely attach rivets to leather projects. It provides the necessary force and precision to ensure that rivets are firmly fixed in place, creating a strong and reliable bond between layers of leather without the risk of slipping or loosening over time. Typically used in conjunction with copper rivets and washers, the rivet setter is an essential tool for anyone who works with heavy-duty leather items such as dog collars, belts, straps, bags, and more.
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COPPER RIVET SETTER


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YOUR QUICK GUIDE TO SETTING RIVETS


5KG ANVIL




A 5kg anvil is an indispensable tool for any leatherworker, metalworker, or artisan who requires a stable, durable surface for heavy-duty tasks such as setting copper rivets and stamping a maker's mark. The weight and solid structure of the 5kg anvil provide a firm and reliable base that allows for the precise application of force required in these processes.

BALL PEIN HAMMER



The ball pein hammer is an essential tool in the toolkit of any leatherworker, metalworker, or artisan, designed to perform a variety of critical functions in the crafting process. This versatile hammer is typically characterized by its flat striking face on one side and a rounded, domed surface (the "pein") on the other, which makes it incredibly useful for a wide range of tasks, particularly when working with rivets, punches, and shaping metal or leather components.

One of the primary uses of the ball pein hammer in leatherworking is for striking the rivet setter. When installing copper rivets, it's necessary to apply significant force to compress the rivet and washer securely into place. 

ESSENTIAL DOG COLLAR KIT



To make a dog lead you will need the following materials:

Most of the above, plus...
  • Cast brass trigger hook – size dependant on the width of the strap
  • Brass standard harness ring – Fitted to the leash handle prior to stitching/riveting. Allows the lead to be secured around the body when free-running a dog. Also allows for the lead to be secured around a leg when taking your dog to the pub!
  • Rivets or tiger thread and associated tools - depending on how you wish to secure the lead  (I prefer a stitched lead, as I love the finished look)
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company

ESSENTIAL DOG LEAD KIT



To make a dog collar you will need the following materials:

Most of the above, plus...
  • Rotary punch/crew punch/drive punch– For making collar sizing holes and holes for rivets where used. (Punch type depends on application)
  • Wing dividers – for marking uniformed sizing holes. Can also use a ruler, but this can result in uneven hole spacing. Dividers can also be used for marking a uniformed stitching line where needed
  • Cast brass dog collar dee – Deeper aperture for attaching a leash than standard dees
  • Cast brass single roller buckle – To secure the collar onto the dog's neck
  • Rivets or tiger thread and associated tools - depending on how you wish to secure the collar (I typically stitch collars, as I believe it gives a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing finish)
Images kindly provided by The Traditional Leather Lead Company