AndyBates

Hi people. I've been a member here for a while now but this is my first post. There's a photo attached of a bag called 'Shared Scars' I made about a year ago for a gallery in Durham. I'll be posting plenty more in the near future when I can work out how to attach more than one photo at a time! I live in Hexham, UK, a traditional leatherworking town, and have been working with leather for around 25 years. I specialise in traditional, English leatherwork but make very modern 'art' pieces, historical replicas (including wood- and metalwork etc) and other stuff like belts, sheaths and other things as required. I also run a variety of leatherwork courses in Hexham, from beginner to very advanced, and these have become really popular! I'm more than happy to try to answer any questions I can but I'm also really keen to pick up tips from you guys; the wealth of knowledge here must be amazing! And finally for now, I've just received a commission from a major artist and I'll be putting pretty regular updates about it on here as the work progresses. It's pretty odd! Speak soon, Andy

Hi people. I'm glad to be here! I've worked in leather now for around 25 years and specialise in traditional English, hand-stitched leathergoods. I started out making the odd historical replica for museums as a bit of a hobby whilst I was working full time as an archaeologist, a forester, an English lecturer and a cop (and some other things, but not all at the same time!). I've carried on doing these but also make sort of 'art' pieces in moulded leather as well as the usual bags and belts etc and I also teach the subject. Basically, if its in leather, I'll make it! As soon as I can work out how to do it I'll post some pics and I'm really looking forward to sharing some of my knowledge and skills and to learning some new stuff from you guys! Andy

Hi Raven. I've just joined here and haven't got any pics etc on yet but will do soon! I was/ am an archaeologist and have been a traditional leatherworker for around twenty five years. I marry the two by making replica stuff for museums and galleries, amongst others. If you hang on for a couple of days (busy at the minute!) I'll send you some pics and info. Andy