The Leather Knife Sheath Making Workshop is a full-day, hands-on craft experience held from 09:00 to 17:00 at our World of Bushcraft Centre in the Peak District National Park. With a maximum group size of eight, the workshop offers a relaxed, supportive learning environment with plenty of individual guidance from experienced instructors. The course is suitable for participants aged 16 and over, with under-18s welcome when accompanied by a responsible adult. Participants are invited to bring their own knife, allowing them to create a sheath that is perfectly fitted to a tool they already know and use. By the end of the day, each participant will leave with a custom-made leather knife sheath, crafted entirely by hand. Crafting Protection for a Trusted ToolA good knife deserves a well-made sheath. Beyond protecting the blade, a sheath ensures safe carry, ease of access, and long-term care of the tool. This workshop focuses on creating a simple sheath that is both functional and durable, while also allowing space for personal expression through design and finish. Participants are introduced to different sheath styles and construction methods, discussing the advantages of each before selecting the approach best suited to their knife and intended use. Learning the ProcessUnder clear, practical instruction, participants are guided through every stage of sheath construction. Techniques covered include: Understanding vegetable-tanned leather and its properties Measuring and designing a sheath to fit an individual knife Safe use of leatherworking tools Cutting, shaping, and wet-forming leather Hand stitching and the use of rivets Dyeing, burnishing, and finishing techniques Caring for and maintaining leather over time The emphasis throughout is on building confidence and transferable skills, enabling participants to apply what they learn to future leather projects. A Relaxed and Supportive SettingAll tools, equipment, and materials are provided, and instruction is delivered at a steady, achievable pace suitable for beginners and those with some prior experience. Workshops take place at our World of Bushcraft Centre, where free tea and coffee are available throughout the day, creating a welcoming and sociable atmosphere. Only paid participants will have materials allocated for hands-on work. Under-18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. In SummaryThe Leather Knife Sheath Making Workshop offers a practical introduction to traditional leatherworking, centred around creating a high-quality, custom-fitted sheath for a trusted tool. Participants leave with a finished sheath, a solid foundation in leathercraft techniques, and the confidence to undertake further projects independently. This workshop is ideal for those interested in bushcraft equipment, leatherworking, traditional crafts, or making durable, functional items by hand.
