Sámi Leather Pouch Making Workshop

Woodland Ways Verified independent store

→

The Sámi Leather Pouch Making Workshop is a relaxed and rewarding afternoon craft experience, running from 14:00 to 18:00 at our World of Bushcraft Centre in the Peak District Nati onal Park. With a maximum group size of eight, the workshop offers close instruction and a calm, supportive atmosphere suited to both beginners and those with some craft experience. The workshop is open to participants aged 16 and over, with under-18s welcome when accompanied by a responsible adult. Over the course of the afternoon, participants will combine leatherwork and cordage skills to create a traditional Sámi leather pouch—an item valued for its simplicity, durability, and everyday usefulness. Tradition and Practical CraftFor thousands of years, the indigenous Sámi people of Lapland have crafted leather pouches as an essential part of daily life. Traditionally used to carry items such as coffee, salt, flour, and dried food, these pouches were designed to be lightweight, strong, and dependable in harsh environments. Drawing inspiration from this tradition, the workshop focuses on producing a pouch that is not only attractive but genuinely functional. The finished piece is ideal for storing small bushcraft items such as fire-lighting kits, food, tools, or personal belongings, and is designed to last for many years of use. Learning the ProcessThe workshop is suitable for all ability levels and is structured to be easy to follow, with clear, practical instruction throughout. Participants are guided step by step through the process, including: Understanding vegetable-tanned leather and its properties Cutting and shaping leather accurately Simple hand-stitching techniques Creating and fitting cordage closures Assembling and finishing a durable leather pouch Nothing is overly complex, and emphasis is placed on enjoying the process while developing confidence with basic leatherworking skills. A Relaxed and Supportive SettingAll tools and materials are provided, and participants are encouraged to work at their own pace. Workshops are held at our World of Bushcraft Centre, where free tea and coffee are available throughout the afternoon, creating a relaxed and sociable environment. Only paid participants will have materials allocated for hands-on work. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult at all times. In SummaryThe Sámi Leather Pouch Making Workshop offers a satisfying introduction to traditional leathercraft, combining heritage, practicality, and hands-on learning. Participants leave with a finished leather pouch, a set of transferable skills, and a deeper appreciation for simple, well-made woodland equipment. This workshop is ideal for those interested in traditional crafts, bushcraft equipment, leatherworking, or creating useful items by hand. Show more