5 Leatherworking Tools You Didn't Know You Needed

5 Leatherworking Tools You Didn't Know You Needed

Venturing into the world of leathercraft can be both exciting and overwhelming. While beginners often focus on acquiring the basics—cutting tools, punches, and needles—there exists a realm of specialised implements that can dramatically elevate your craftsmanship. Today, we're exploring five underappreciated leatherworking tools that might just transform your next project from good to exceptional.

1. The Edge Beveler

Many leatherworkers spend hours burnishing edges to perfection, but often overlook the critical first step: proper bevelling. A quality edge beveler removes the sharp corners from cut leather edges, creating a rounded profile that accepts burnishing compounds more readily and results in a professional finish that withstands wear.

Look for bevelers in various sizes (typically numbered #0 through #5) to accommodate different leather thicknesses. For most projects, a #2 offers tremendous versatility, though having a smaller option for delicate work pays dividends in precision.

2. Japanese Skiving Knife

While Western skiving tools certainly have their place, the Japanese-style skiving knife offers unparalleled control for thinning leather in specific areas. With its distinctive curved blade and ergonomic handle, this tool allows craftspeople to achieve paper-thin transitions and reduce bulk in overlapping areas—essential for producing professional wallets, handbags, and other fine leather goods.

The learning curve may be steeper than with other tools, but the results speak for themselves: clean, consistent skives that elevate your work to the next level.

3. Pricking Irons versus Stitching Chisels

Many leatherworkers are familiar with stitching chisels, but fewer appreciate the superior results achieved with proper leather pricking irons. Unlike chisels that cut completely through the leather, pricking irons create perfect slanted guides for hand-stitching without removing material.

The result? Tighter, more durable stitching with improved aesthetic appeal. French-style pricking irons typically produce elegant, angled holes that guide your needle perfectly and create that coveted slanted stitch pattern seen in luxury leather goods.

4. Bone Folder

Borrowed from bookbinding traditions, the humble leather bone folder deserves a place in every leatherworker's toolkit. This smooth, polished implement—traditionally made from actual bone but now commonly crafted from synthetic materials—excels at creating crisp folds and pressing seams without marking your leather.

Use it to establish clean fold lines before gluing, to smooth down edges after adhesive application, or to gently work leather into tight corners. Unlike metal tools, it won't leave unwanted impressions on your material, preserving that flawless finish we all strive for.

5. Awl Haft with Interchangeable Tips

Rather than accumulating numerous specialised awls, consider investing in a quality awl haft with interchangeable tips. This versatile system allows you to switch between different awl points—straight, curved, diamond, or round—depending on your specific task.

From marking stitch lines to creating pilot holes for hardware installation, a good awl system adapts to countless applications throughout your leatherworking journey. Look for options with comfortable wooden handles and secure collet mechanisms that hold tips firmly in place.

Elevate Your Craft

Investing in these often-overlooked tools might seem like a luxury when you're starting out, but each offers distinct advantages that can save time, reduce frustration, and elevate the quality of your finished pieces. As with any craft, the right tools not only make the work more enjoyable but also expand your technical capabilities and creative possibilities.

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Original article written by Becky Cocker of British Leather Supplies. Explore our site to find more resources about tools for leathercraft. Visit our store to find quality leathercraft tools online.