Learn with Illume

Highlight your beautiful tooling with color! We'll cover color theory, perfect paint mixing, and how to create vibrant designs on leather tooling. From basic colors to stunning finishes, you'll master the techniques and complete a hands-on project.

Design a Bouquet Wrap

This fun and engaging course dives into the latest floral trends, key questions to ask clients, and step-by-step pattern creation. By the end of the course, you'll know how to create a wrap that is as unique as your individual clients!

Live Events Hub

Community

Welcome to the Live Events Hub! Here, you will find information about upcoming and past live events. You can also ask questions and interact with other subscribers.

Creating Bag Prototypes

Ready to dive into the world of bag design? Join our hands-on course and learn how to create unique sketches and turn them into perfect prototypes. We'll guide you step-by-step in creating stunning, functional bags that your clients will love!

Introduction to Braiding and Knots

If you’re ready to make leather accessories that don’t just blend in but blow people away, you’re in the right place. This course dives into the braids and knots that’ll instantly make your work look high-end and boutique-worthy.

Intermediate Braiding and Knots

Love what you learned in the Introduction to Braiding and Knots? Continue learning with this next course. Apply what you learn to make a beautiful dog lead.

Tooling a Swell (Pendleton Bronc Trophy Saddle)

When it comes to tooling a saddle swell, every cut, bevel, and detail matters—and in this advanced course, master craftsman Ty Skiver takes you through his entire process, step by step.

Drawing a Pattern and Tooling a Jockey

Designing a tooled jockey that looks balanced and professional starts long before you pick up a swivel knife—it starts with a well-thought-out pattern. See this creation come to life from drawing to final tooling.

Tooling Chap Tops

Chap tops are the perfect canvas for bold, eye-catching designs—and Ty Skiver is here to show you how to make yours stand out. In this course, he walks you through the process of tooling an intricate filigree and floral design.

Skull and Baseball Cap Leather Artwork

Create a stunning piece of leather art with this skull and baseball cap project! In this course, you'll learn advanced techniques such as leather embossing, frame creation, colorwork, and more.

Python Handbag

Create a beautiful Python handbag in this step-by-step course. Whether you're new to working with exotics or an exotic leather enthusiast, this course has something for everyone to learn!

How to Build a Saddle

Welcome to our most advanced leather course yet! You will learn how to create an entire saddle, start to finish. From shaping the pattern pieces to your liking patterning to applying the finishing coat, this will be a cherished work of custom art.

Custom Knife Sheath

Learn to pattern a custom knife sheath! This course covers measuring, designing, and constructing a sheath that fits any knife. Perfect for refining your leatherworking skills and creating functional, stylish sheaths for any knife.

Live Event Replays

Catch the recording of our monthly live events featuring instructors, suppliers, and industry experts. These live events are included in both the monthly and yearly subscription plans. Get the insider scoop and real-time answers to your questions!

Cobra NP4 Bell Skiver Overview

Master the Cobra NP4 Bell Skiver. Learn the machine's anatomy, how to safely set it up, and expert techniques for sharpening to keep it running smoothly.

Custom Chaps

Learn how to bring your client's vision to life by learning how to create custom chaps. From patterning to custom details, you'll discover how to create something one-of-a-kind.

Leather Backpack

Learn how to create a beautiful everyday leather backpack complete with an inside laptop pocket. Style meets function in this step-by-step course. Get started today!

Pouch Sheath for the Buck 110

Create a stunning pouch-style sheath for one of the most iconic knives of all time, the Buck 110. Get step-by-step instruction and expert insights in this course taught by George Cubic.

Build a Pair of Boots

Learn how to build a pair of custom cowboy boots from start to finish! You'll gain tips and insights to help keep this traditional method of craftsmanship alive.

Leather Case Making

Master leather craftsman, Gordon Andrus will teach you precision and craftsmanship as you learn how to make a completely custom leather box case. From creating an original form to tooling a unique design, you'll learn the art of true creativity.

Money Clip Wallets

Create a personalized and functional accessory you can use every day! Geo stamp expert, Ryan King, will teach you the skills and tricks you need to know to create and stamp a money clip wallet from scratch.

Belt Tap-Off Series

Tooled belts are a leathercraft business staple. This series presents new tap-offs every month so that you can consistently add a new belt to your line of products. No business? No worries! Use this series to continually improve your skills.

Saddle Fit Fundamentals

Learn the key principles of saddle fitting, from balancing the saddle to proper cinch placement. Gain practical knowledge to ensure your saddle supports your horse’s movement, comfort, and performance—whether for ranch work or competition.

Accoutrements for Knife Sheaths

Ready to level up your knife sheath game? Learn to create handy add-ons like a knife sharpener holder, ferro rod holder, and a practical dangler system. It’s those extra touches that make your sheath both functional and awesome for the user!

Overnight Bag with a Gator Pocket

Create a timeless, heirloom-quality overnight bag! Instructor Aaron Heizer takes you through the entire project from designing the pattern to final assembly. You'll also learn how to create an airbrushed pocket using crusted gator for added style.

Buckstitching a Boot Top

Learn how to add some flare and character to your projects by adding a buckstitch. This course will teach you how to add it to your boot tops, but you can take what you learn and apply it to all kinds of leather projects!

Roper Saddle

Craft your masterpiece! Learn the art of building a roper saddle from scratch in this advanced course. You'll learn something at every step, from selecting leather and other materials to buttoning up and polishing. Get started today!

Tooling Boot Collars

Learn how to tool one-of-a-kind boot collars in this comprehensive course with instructor, Ty Skiver. The course will explore design and layout, figure carving, tooling techniques, and more. Finish the project with a beautiful dye and antique finish.

Beading a Hatband

Express your creativity in this beginner-friendly course on beading a hatband! Learn to graph patterns, set up a loom, and seamlessly attach your beautiful beadwork to a hat. Then, apply what you learn to a variety of leathercraft projects!

Gun Belts

If you're selling holsters and similar products, you will absolutely want to consider adding gun belts to your product line. These belts come together quickly and provide your client with the functionality they need.

Swivel Knife 101

Swivel Knife 101 is chock-full of helpful swivel knife information. From how to find the perfect swivel knife for you to how to sharpen and care for it, you will learn it all. You'll also put what you learned to use with some practice coasters.

Create an Heirloom Leather Journal

Create a journal that will last a lifetime and beyond! Join expert leathercrafter, Chuck Dorsett, as he shows you to create a handcrafted leather journal. This handmade gift will be treasured for generations to come.

Three Piece Holster Design

Unlock the art of holster design! Learn the essentials of human anatomy and cant for optimal comfort and accessibility. Unleash your creativity in crafting the perfect holster in our three-piece holster design class.

Crust Gator Wallet

Learn how to create this beautiful crust gator wallet that is sure to stand out among billfolds. Aaron Heizer will take you through patterning, airbrushing, hand-stitching, and final assembly in this easy-to-follow course. Get started now!

Fundamentals of Quality Tooling

Learn about the lost art of casing and how prepping your leather to have the proper moisture content and temper before tooling will improve the depth and detail in your tooling.

Saddle Repair and Maintenance

Learning how to care for and maintain saddles is essential for anyone in the saddle and tack industry. In this series, we will bring you various repair projects and tips for keeping saddles functioning and thriving.

Tool Storage and Maintenance

From sharpening to storing, learn how to care for common leathercraft tools. A well-cared-for tool will last longer, saving you money and creating better products.

Head Knife and Skiving Mastery

Discover how to use the head knife to its fullest! In this course, you'll learn precision cutting and essential skiving techniques. Perfect for all skill levels.

Advanced Tooling: Standing Bear Design

Expert tooler, Ed LaBarre, reveals the secrets of creating exceptional dimensionality in this beautiful design. Create a truly stunning piece of art using nothing but a piece of leather, your hand tools, and some dye in this advanced tooling course.

Bifold Wallet with Sliding Gusset

Learn a new skill while creating something beautiful and practical! This course will teach you how to create a bifold wallet with a sliding gusset as well as discuss tips and techniques for geo stamping with instructor Ryan King.

Shoulder Holster

Get ready to create a shoulder holster! Learn to build a durable harness, mold a holster, and create a mag pouch with expert instruction.

Creating & Coloring 3D Leather Feathers

Learn how to make feathers so realistic looking, your friends and family won't believe they're leather! This course was taught live by the incredible Jim Linnel at Pendleton in 2022 and is now available on-demand on the Illum Atelier platform.

Intro to Exotics

Dive into exotics and discover the luxury and allure of python, alligator, stingray, crocodile, and more. Elevate your style and craftsmanship today!

Inside the Waistband Holster

Learn how to pattern and create a Pro Slim inside the waistband holster. Discover the small details that will take your holster from good to the best holster your client has ever had.

Make Your Own Saddle Bags

In this course, you will learn how to make a set of saddle bags from start to finish. These beautiful saddle bags are sure to impress any rider.

Wrist Cuff

Create a beautiful leather wrist cuff in this quick and easy tutorial.

Sporran

Learn how to make a traditional Scottish sporran! Your finished product will include impressive details such as rabbit hide tassels and an antler closure. No kilt is complete without a stylish and functional sporran!

Class: Floral Design and Layout

Creating a tooling design is an excellent way to express your creativity. In this class, Matt Wanner will guide you through his process for creating a floral design for a fender. Take the concepts and apply them to all your tooling projects!

Class: Beading Pattern Design

Master the art of beading patterns! Learn to design intricate, eye-catching patterns without making them. Discover color selection, symmetry, and layout techniques, empowering you to craft stunning beading designs confidently.

Saddle Latigos

Learn how to create a saddle latigo - the long strip of leather that's used to tighten the cinch. This is a quick project you can do as you create your own saddle or repair a favorite saddle!

Scrap Leather Project: Turtle Accessory

Don't let any of your exotic leather scraps go to waste! Learn how to pattern and create animal accessories in this beginner-friendly course.

Reupholster a Cushion

If you have cushions lying around that have seen better days, you're in luck! In this course, you'll learn the foundational skills to reupholster a cushion. Learn tricks for giving it a professional look, even if you're new to reupholstery!

How to Make a Timeless Ranger Belt

Express your creativity by crafting your very own one-of-a-kind ranger belt. With a wide array of high-quality leather, buckles, and decorative elements to choose from, you'll have the freedom to design a belt that truly showcases your individuality.

Trifold Alligator Wallet

Learn how to create a beautiful alligator wallet with a zipper pocket. From color to stitch, this online course will walk you through every step. This course was taught live in Pendleton and is now available on demand through the platform.

Saddle Seat Install + Inlay

Add an element of interest and design to your saddle seat with an inlay. Step-by-step, you'll delve into the techniques that make your saddle standout – from precision cutting and shaping to meticulous placement and finishing touches.

Double Diamond Lace Lanyard

In this course, Ryan King will show you how to create a custom lanyard. You'll learn how to create a geometric serpentine pattern as well as the double diamond lacing technique. This eye-catching product is sure to turn heads!

Tapaderos

Craft beautiful, functional, custom tapaderos! The pattern used will accommodate any pre-treaded stirrup. Say goodbye to pesky brush poking through and bothering you or your horse! Now you can ride comfortably with these leather tapaderos.

Intro to Leather Selection

Overwhelmed by all the available leather choices? Confused about how grading leather works? In this foundational course, the experts at Hermann Oak break down everything you need to know about selecting the right leather for your project!

Gift Card Holder

Instead of giving a gift card in a regular envelope, make the gift extra special with this leather gift card holder. A beginner-friendly project for new leather enthusiasts, this versatile item can also be used to stow other small items.

Design and Construct a Modern Retention Holster for the Glock 19

This course, led by instructor George Canfield, will teach you how to design a pattern and then construct a modern retention holster- a.k.a. "the pancake holster"- for the Glock 19.

Handmade Holiday: Scrap Leather Ornament

Join Angie Shaw from Burns Boots to transform leather scraps into unique holiday decorations perfect for family fun and gifting. Unleash your creativity this festive season!

Buckle-Free Guitar Strap

In this course, you'll learn how to craft a unique and comfortable guitar strap. Instructor, Ryan King, will guide you through every step of the process from cutting the leather to stitching, stamping, and finishing your strap.

3D Leather Peony

Create a stunning 3D leather peony with step-by-step instructions on how to shape and mold your leather to realistic shapes. You'll also learn the tips and tricks of working with dye and paint to get beautiful coloration on your leather.

How to Make a Domed Billeted Belt

Learn how to make a classic belt in this step-by-step course. By the time you're done, you'll have a beautiful piece to add to your wardrobe.

Keeping Sharp with Paul Zalesak

5.0 (7 reviews)

Keep your knives performing their best by learning how to properly sharpen them. In this course, you'll learn about sharpening a point knife and a head knife. You'll also learn how to make your own custom strop.

The Avenger Holster + Variation

In this advanced holster-building course, expert holster maker, George Canfield, shares his best tips and tricks for building the Avenger holster. Learn how to create your own pattern, share your artistry through molding, and create a variation.

An Introduction to Decorative Stitching

Make your leather projects stand apart from the crowd by learning how to create a beautiful stitch pattern. This course is full of tips and tricks for how to stitch with precision. Bring your stitcher and your creativity!

Add a Mag Pouch to Your Product Line

Add this nifty accessory, the magazine pouch, to your inventory. In this course, you will learn how to use the pattern, apply the snaps, and mold the pouch. It's the perfect add-on product to your holsters!

Class: Billfold Design

Learn how to design your own unique billfold! In this course, Aaron Heizer will take you through the process of crafting your own pattern for a wallet as he designs one from scratch. Even beginners can start creating their own billfold designs!

Three Piece Roper Breast Collar

Join Zachery Holyoak in this course where you will craft a stunning three-piece breast collar to add to your saddle and tack collection. Learn the art of precision, style, and durability. Saddle up for a masterpiece that showcases your craftsmanship.

Reupholster a Bucket Seat

Give the interior of your car an upgrade by learning how to reupholster a bucket seat. This course with upholstery expert, Skyler Duckworth, will show you how to break the seat cover apart into pieces to create patterns for new pieces.

Airbrush Sunburst Technique

Give your projects a beautiful, unique look with the sunburst airbrush technique. Once you get the hang of this simple technique, you'll be able to apply it to wallets, bags, boots, and more, so that your projects can stand apart from the rest.

Leather 101

To become an industry-leading artisan, you must have a deep understanding of the materials you use. This series will explore various properties of different types of leather and leather finishes, so you can choose the best material for any project.

Raised Cording Design Work

From boot tops to bags, your work will (literally) stand out as you learn how to create raised cording. This simple but effective technique will add detail and dimension to your leatherwork. Elevate your craft today with this easy-to-follow course.

Leather Overlay

Overlays are a fantastic way to customize, boots, bags, and other leather projects. In this class, you'll learn the basic steps for creating an overlay of your own. Start today and start elevating your leathercraft with overlays.

Make a Valet Tray

Create a beautiful valet tray (also known as a catchall tray) for your glasses, keys, coins, and other miscellaneous items. Bonus: you will also improve your tooling skills by tooling a sunflower design onto the tray.

Principles of Floral Design and Tooling

Learn how to create your very own tooling patterns from scratch using the principles taught in this class by expert leather crafter, Gordon Andrus.

Create a Belt Tap-Off

Want to know the secret to getting more tooling done faster? It's tap-offs! Learn how to create a belt tap-off in this course with instructor Paul Zalesak. He'll share his tips and tricks for making the best tap-off you can create!

Class: Leather Beading

Discover how to elevate your leathercraft by covering the raw edges with what is known as beading. This simple-to-follow tutorial will break this down into easy-to-follow steps, so you can take your leatherwork to the next level.

Phone and Go Leatherific Kit

In this course, you'll learn how to make a phone-and-go purse, keychain, two pairs of earrings, ear tag, and cowboy boot luggage tag all customized with the photo or print of your choice!

Rawhide Cheyenne Roll and Standard Cantle Bindings

In this course, you will learn how to install a rawhide binding on both a Cheyenne and Standard cantle. If you are new to working with rawhide- don't worry! You'll learn tips and tricks for making rawhide your friend all while elevating your saddle.

Class: Easy Shot Bag

5.0 (3 reviews)

A shot bag is a handy little tool to have around any leathercrafter's workshop. Use them to keep your project in place without worrying about marking up your leather. In this quick class, you'll learn how to easily make one in just a few minutes!

How to Reupholster a Chair

Reupholstering a chair is more than just a simple DIY project—it's an opportunity to express your unique style, breathe new life into cherished furniture, and unleash your creativity. Learn the essential techniques for revitalizing any chair.

Twisted Flower

Learn how to add stunning detail to your boot tops, wallets, and other projects with this twisted flower technique. You will learn step-by-step how to create this textured leather flower so you can set your products apart from the competition.

Class: Sew Like a Pro

5.0 (7 reviews)

A well-sewn project elevates your work from amateur to professional. Learn the best tips and troubleshooting techniques in this Sew Like a Pro Class. You will also get an overview of the Cobra Class 18 and guidance on how to set it up properly.

Leather Inlay

Get ready to add some wow factor to your boot tops and other leather projects! In this course, you'll learn how to create a leather inlay. Once you understand the fundamentals taught in this lesson, the sky is the limit for what you can create!

Hermann Oak Tannery Tour

You may recognize quality leather when you see it, but do you know the process that goes into creating that quality leather? Learn about the tannage process from one of the greatest leather producers in the industry, Hermann Oak Leather.

Class: Geo Stamp Flower Design

Learn how to create "The Ryan Flower", a Ryan King original design, in this brief class. Once you master the technique, you can apply it to wallets, notebooks, mousepads, or just about any leather tooling project!

Back to Basics: Learn the Basics of Leathercrafting

Get back to the basics of leather crafting with these tutorials and resources. Whether you are brand new and need some guidance to get going or an experienced leatherworker looking for a refresher, these lessons will get you going!

Product Photography for Beginners

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a good product photo is worth a thousand words of sales copy! Learn about the equipment you need, basic dos and don'ts, how to make your pictures go further, and more in this beginner-friendly class.

Leather Toiletry Bag

In this course, you will learn how to make a toiletry bag. With step-by-step video instruction and ideas for customization, this course will help you create a bag you love!

Class: Learn How to Box Stitch

One of the most useful stitching techniques in leatherwork is the box stitch. Instructor, Gordon Andrus, will help you prepare your project for the stitch, show you how to do it, and show you best practices along the way.

Full Stirrup Covers

Protect your saddle with beautiful leather stirrup covers. In this project, you will learn how to create a pattern and mold the leather around your stirrup for a truly custom look and feel.

Tooling Coasters

New to leather tooling? This is a great project to help you understand the process from beginning to end. You'll learn how to cut correctly using your swivel knife, how to select your tools, how to use your tools, and little mistakes to avoid.

Class: Holster Fitment

Take your services to the next level by offering custom holster fitments for your clients. In this class, expert holster maker, George Canfield, will walk you through the process of finding the perfect holster, placement, and cant for your client.

Tooled Leather Mouse Pad

Get ready for a fun and simple project! Spruce up your desk with a leather mouse pad. Bring your tools and some paint and get started today.

Reupholster a 4-Wheeler Seat

Do you have an ATV seat that has seen better days? In this course, instructor Skyler Duckworth will show you how to reupholster an old 4-wheeler seat making it look as good as new!

Success Principles for Entrepreneurship

Whether you're just getting started on your entrepreneurial journey or have years of business experience, there's something for everyone in this course taught live at the Pendleton Leather Show by Burns 1876 President and Owner, Braydan Shaw.

Create a Holster from Scratch

Select from two design options to create a beautiful, handcrafted holster from scratch. From the custom sizing to the exquisite tooling, this project is sure to wow your friends and family.

How to Make Stirrup Covers

In this course, you will learn how to make a set of half stirrup covers and treads. You'll learn how to form the covers to fit any set of stirrups in this fun, quick project.

Class: Swivel Knife Practice Pattern

Learning to use a swivel knife is one of the fundamental skills of leather tooling. Why not create something beautiful while you improve your skills? Learn how to carve a beautiful bird using basic swivel knife cuts.

Class: Setting up your Tooling Bench

Ready to jump into leatherworking but not sure where to start? Paul Zalesak beautifully lays out his recommendations for getting started with tools and a work area. Get organized and motivated to start creating!

Easy Leather Earrings

If you are looking for a beginner-friendly leathercraft project, then this class is for you! Learn how to make several different earring designs while you improve your swivel knife skills and do some basic tooling. Bonus: they make a great gift!

Create a Custom Holster Pattern for a Glock 17 and a Glock 43

Learn how to create a holster pattern for a Glock 43 and a Glock 17. Expert holster designer, George Canfield, will guide you through his process of designing a pancake holster.

Quick Project: Swivel Knife Finesse

Matt Wanner demonstrates the basics of the swivel knife with some great practice pieces, coasters. In this course you will learn how to make a design and cut it into leather with your swivel knife.

Class: Color Theory

Understand the basics of color theory including tints, tones, shades, and color harmony in this quick class. With this foundational knowledge, you'll be able to apply it to your artwork to create beautiful color combinations.

Foundations of Leather Tooling

This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of leather tooling so you can add depth and dimension to your leather projects. You will be given expert advice on how to use a swivel knife, beveler, pear shader, backgrounder tool, and much more.

Advanced Tooling: Three Oaks Design

Believe it or not, this incredible work of art was created using a single piece of leather. Expert tooler, Ed LaBarre, will teach you his technique for creating exceptional depth in this advanced leather tooling course.

Class: Working with Dye

Adding color to your leatherwork adds another layer of visual interest. However, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. Join master leathercrafter, Ed LaBarre as he shares his tips and tricks for working with dye.

DIY Cantle Bag

Custom tack and small leather goods expert, Sierra Rogers, will show you how to create your own cantle bag. Whether you want to attach it to a saddle, turn it into a purse, or use it to store your tools, uses for this handy bag are limitless!

Class: Petal Lifting Fundamentals

Petal lifting adds dimension and depth to your tooling. Learn to do it correctly, and you’ll create leather work that literally stands out above the rest! Follow Ed’s best tips to help you master this important skill.

Pricing and Costing with George Canfield

Understanding pricing and costing are vital to making money with leathercraft. In this course, George Canfield will walk you through the important considerations you need to take into account before taking a product to market.

Class: Design Thinking for Artisans

One of the hallmarks of creativity is innovation and problem-solving. In this class, you will learn how to use the Design Thinking process as an artisan to evolve your business and your craft.

Class: Ed LaBarre's Recommended Starter Tools

If you are just getting started tooling leather, you are in the right place! Ed LaBarre will share his recommended list of tools so you can get the most out of your investment.

Class: Liquids Storage and Care

Keep your liquids in top shape with proper storage and care. This quick class will help you maximize the use of your dyes, balms, finishes, and glues by learning how to reduce waste and maintain a long shelf life.

Geometric Tool Practice: Tooling Borders

Learn how to add geometric borders and explore the foundations of stamping to enhance your leathercrafts in this beginner-friendly course.

Class: Leather Machine Co Cobra Class 14 Leather Splitter

This brief class will provide you with a solid understanding of how to use a leather splitter. This handy machine can save you money on inventory and help make your business more profitable.

Quick Project: Tooling Leather Cattle Tags

Burns tooling expert, Lexi Fotheringham, will guide you through five different cattle tag projects. Each project will help you master different elements of tooling including creating borders, using a swivel knife, beveling, deco cuts, and more.

Class: Knife Sharpening

Whether you are a beginner or an expert, a sharp knife is a crucial tool for every leathercrafter. In this class, you'll learn how to keep your blades clean and sharp so they will perform better and last longer.

DIY Leather Tote with a Tooled Front Pocket

Make your very own tote bag! In this course, you'll learn how to select the right leather, tool a pocket, and stitch it to perfection. Create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind bag that you can show off to your friends and family.

How to Make a Tooled Belt

Learn how to make a beautiful tooled belt in this step-by-step instructional course. You will learn how to create a tap-off, tool the belt, line, stitch, and apply a buckle. Add this unique belt to your wardrobe today!

Bonuses: Little Black Book and Profit, Pricing, and Perseverance: The Ultimate Business Playbook