Leather craftsperson

Level

Intermediate · like GCSEs

Length

1.3 yr

typical

Sector

Creative and design

Pay

Paid

you earn while training

In a nutshell

Producing or manufacturing leather goods for a number of markets.

Cut leather accurately from patterns using knives, presses, or cutting machines

Skive edges to reduce bulk before folding and glueing components

Stitch components by hand or machine following specified stitch length and tension

Finish edges by burnishing, painting, or wax-finishing to a smooth result

Assemble components including straps, linings, fastenings, and hardware

Inspect finished pieces for defects and correct any faults before handover

Maintain tools and machinery in safe and clean working condition

Properties of different types of leather, including grain, suede, and synthetic alternatives

Cutting techniques for achieving accurate, waste-conscious pattern pieces

Skiving, folding, and edge-finishing methods for neat, durable joins

Hand-stitching and machine-stitching techniques appropriate to different leather weights

Adhesives, rivets, and fastenings used in leather goods construction

How to read and use patterns and templates to consistent standards

Quality inspection of finished goods against brand or client specifications

Ready to look for a place?

See live Leather craftsperson apprenticeship vacancies on the official government service.

A Careermash concept · apprenticeship standard from our careers engine · vacancies via gov.uk.