Always working with different projects at same time. Cut out all the pieces then dye them all, stitch ,etc.
I have 4 benches. The main workshop bench with all my leather tools for finishing and small item's cutting .
The second is one big "island" in the middle of the workshop for cutting the hides and dyeing- gluing. And finally two remote auxiliary benches for the dirty work, cutting wooden templates, and curing the molded or dyed parts.
I found that small scale production of 5-10 items per time saves time and money and can be at very competitive prices.
Rule of thumb : when I have a special order of an item I always make at least two more of them. And leave the options open for later. For example if it is to have bronze or nickel fittings I leave them without fittings till future customer decides.
But then again I'm a lunatic and I do that professionally for only one year now.. :-) I'm fully equipped with full series of CS Osborne hand tools, 3 sewing machines, hydraulic clicker, a splitter machine, my own made edge burnisher, etc. thanks to all you guys and your precious advises, tips and deep knowledge in leather craft !
Greetings from Greece
Andreas