Getting started with leathercraft can be challenging, but with the right tools, it becomes a breeze. Here are the top 5 essential tools every leathercrafter should have!
Craft Knife or Rotary Cutter
When working with leather, achieving clean, precise cuts is essential to any high-quality project. A sharp blade allows you to glide effortlessly through the material, giving you those crisp, professional-looking edges that make all the difference. Whether you're crafting wallets, belts, or intricate designs, the right blade ensures accuracy, reduces fraying, and helps maintain the integrity of your piece from the very first cut.
Discover our Craft Knife and Rotary Cutter.
Cutting Mat
A quality cutting mat protects your workspace and also serves as a reliable guide for measuring and cutting straight lines with precision. Go for a self-healing one—it’ll last longer and stay smoother.
Stitching Awl or Hole Punch
Creating holes for stitching is a key part of leatherworking, and having the right tools makes all the difference. An awl is ideal for detailed work—it allows you to manually pierce the leather with precision and control, making it perfect for thinner materials or when you want to guide your stitching line exactly.
On the other hand, hole punches are excellent for making clean, uniform round holes, especially in thicker leather where an awl might struggle. Using both tools together gives you the versatility and accuracy needed for professional-looking results.
Discover our Stitching Awl and Hole Punch.
Wing Divider
A wing divider is an essential tool for marking consistent stitch lines and borders in leatherwork. Think of it like a compass, but specifically designed for leather. Whether you're preparing for hand stitching or simply adding decorative border lines, the wing divider gives you precision and consistency across your entire project.
Discover our Wing Divider.
Basic Stitching Kit (Needles, Thread)
Thread and leather needles are essential tools for achieving clean, strong, and long-lasting stitching in any leatherworking project.
Discover our Needles and Thread.
Getting started with leathercraft can feel a little overwhelming at first—but with the right tools, it quickly becomes an enjoyable and rewarding creative outlet. These five essentials are the foundation of any leathercrafter’s toolkit, helping you achieve clean cuts, precise measurements, and strong, beautiful stitches.
Our Tool Kits are designed to take the guesswork out of getting started—packed with everything you need to dive into leathercraft with confidence. Explore our full collection of tool kits and start creating something great.
