Description
Leather Sheaths
In this hands-on workshop, students will design and build a custom-fit leather sheath for a fixed-blade knife, learning both practical leatherworking skills and finishing techniques along the way. Designed for beginner to intermediate makers, this course focuses on creating a durable pouch-style sheath with a protective welt that helps safeguard the stitching from the blade edge.
Participants will be guided through the full process, from pattern making and measuring to assembly and finishing. Students will learn how to draft a sheath pattern tailored to their specific knife, including proper handle exposure, blade spacing, and belt attachment placement for comfortable wear and function.
The class will also cover essential leatherworking techniques such as transferring patterns to vegetable-tanned leather, casing and tooling for decorative details, skiving for clean folds, and hand-sewing using saddle and corset stitching methods for long-lasting strength.
To complete the project, students will finish edges through sanding, beveling, and burnishing, then apply oil and wax for protection and a polished, professional result. By the end of the workshop, each participant will leave with a finished custom sheath and a foundation in leatherworking techniques that can be applied to future projects.
Students should bring a knife and wear closed-toe shoes.
Materials fee of $25 is to be paid to the instructor at the workshop.
Though Karl Schwartz is the son of a carpenter, he made his living as a computer engineer in Florida. He had been around wood working most of his life but it was not until his sister moved to Washington state that his interest in wood carving sparked. The masks of the Pacific North West and Inuit provided the incentive. Karl found that the masks’ ability to invoke the spirit of animals, land, sea, and air creatures to be enlightening. For the last 20 years Karl has been carving animal figures and developing his woodworking craft. A lifelong learner, he continues to pursue education and guidance from other great wood workers. Karl hopes to pass this love of wood working on to others as well as some of the tricks and skills he has learned along the way.
