Studio Sessions 2: Design and Make The Essential Small Leather Bag

Level: Beginner–Intermediate
Format: 2 sessions | 3 hours each
Schedule: Wednesdays, December 4th and 10th, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Basäder Studio at The Livingroom Collective, Warren, RI

Spend two focused weekday mornings immersed in the craft of leatherwork. Guided by Basäder founder Elin Johansson Antonelli, this hands-on course introduces you to both traditional techniques and the refined, pared back methods Elin has developed over more than a decade of professional practice.

Working with premium vegetable tanned leather and minimal equipment, you will design and create an Essential Small Leather Bag with a clean and timeless aesthetic. The base pattern can be finished as a minimalist clutch, a compact crossbody, or a small bag with a strap, allowing you to tailor the design to your own personal style.

To maximize studio time, students will select their design direction and leather color in advance. In class, you will have the option to stitch your piece by hand, on the industrial sewing machine, or using a combination of both. A live demo will show you how to make subtle tweaks to the base pattern, giving you the confidence to continue experimenting with your own bag designs beyond this course.

You will learn essential skills including pattern preparation, cutting and gluing panels, beveling and burnishing edges, saddle stitching by hand (or machine stitching methods), and installing hardware with a professional finish.

By the end of the second session, you will leave with a beautifully finished small leather bag that is functional, versatile, and a reflection of your own creativity.

If you are new to leatherwork, we recommend starting with our Intro Workshop before enrolling.

Price: $495 per person (materials included)