10/08-09/2026 – Realistic Leather Tooling for Beginners – Christopher Kearns

$125

$125

Beginner & intermediate.

2 days

12 Students

 

Join us for a two-day journey into the art of leather figure carving, perfect for beginners (and intermediate level), eager to explore this timeless craft. This class will guide you through the fundamentals of tooling realistic designs on leather, including birds, animals, flowers, and more.

What You’ll Learn:

Techniques to create lifelike figures on leather.

Tool selection and proper usage to achieve the best results.

Thought processes and tips for producing realistic and detailed carvings.

What You’ll Create:

Throughout the class, you’ll work on practice pieces that can be transformed into functional and decorative items such as key fobs, coasters, patches, and more. If time allows, you’ll also have the opportunity to tool a 5” x 7” frameable animal portrait, bringing your leather artistry to life.

Learning a new skill can be challenging, but with the right tools, guidance, and practice, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of figure carving in leather.

Bio:

Leather has been my creative voice for more than fifty years—a way to connect my hands, heart, and faith with the natural world I love.  

My journey began with a simple kit as a teenager and grew into a lifelong passion that’s taken me from guild leadership to teaching and sharing the art I love.

Inspired by the beauty and complexity of God’s creation, I use leather as my canvas to capture the spirit of wildlife and beloved pets alike—each feather, whisker, and texture carved with care to reflect the life within. When I’m not carving, you’ll likely find me hiking in the Tetons or helping care for raptors at the American Wildlife Refuge.