AndyBates Report post Posted January 8, 2010 (edited) Classes in traditional, English leatherwork are being run by Andy Bates B.A.(hons) in 2010 in Haslam's of Hallgate gallery in Hexham, Northumberland, UK. The beginner's course 'An Introduction to traditional Leatherwork' is held on the last Saturday of every month from 10:00 'til 16:00. All tools are provided as is the leather. Students will learn the fundamental skills of traditional leatherwork including hide or skin selection, tool sharpening, marking out, cutting, edge shaving, skiving, dyeing, saddle stitch, edge burnishing, polishing etc and will go home with a finished piece. Intermediate, advanced and specialist courses are also available, as are courses on the research and reconstruction of historical and archaeological replicas, from prehistoric to 20th century. All courses are run at the pace of the participants and are deemed to be great fun, extremely informative and completely worthwhile. Commenting on the course run in November 2009, Win said, "a productive and enjoyable day - down to Andy's supportive style and subject knowledge". Andy has worked with leather for around 25 years and has taught the subject of leatherworking to all ages since 1996. He has made 'art' pieces for Durham Art Gallery amongst others, has made reconstructions for English Heritage, for the BBC and for the Discovery Channel and has taught at innumerable venues including Walsall Leather Museum, UK. Andy has also supplied equipment pouches and sheaths to the police and military and once lived as a neolithic man for two weeks (including 4 consecutive days of heavy rain and temperatures of -6 degrees) in leather clothing and footwear of his own construction. He now loves loincloths! To book onto a course, contact Andy at am.bates@btinternet.com or call on 07879 870594 or (UK) 01434 604436. An example of Andy's work is below. More in the gallery. Edited January 8, 2010 by AndyBates Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
