Affordable Leather Tools and Materials I Swear By
Getting into leather craft doesn’t have to drain your wallet — trust me, I’ve built Halcyon Leather Co. using a humble setup and a whole lot of patience.
When you’re first starting out, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by tool recommendations and $300+ machines. But you really only need a few solid tools, the right materials, and some practice. Below are the tools and supplies I still use to this day ( most under $50) and why they’re perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike.
1. A Solid Utility Knife or Rotary Cutter
You don’t need a fancy Japanese skiver to start. I used a basic OLFA rotary cutter for months, and it gave me clean, straight cuts on every wallet and bookmark I made. Just keep your blade sharp and your hand steady.
2. Basic Stitching Gear
Forget sewing machines — saddle stitching by hand is king in leather craft. Here’s what you need:
• Pricking irons (I like a 4mm spacing)
• Blunt stitching needles (John James or similar)
• Waxed polyester thread (1.0mm is solid for most work)
I use this exact setup on every Quick-Draw Wallet you see in the shop. If you’re still new to saddle stitching, check out the basics in our post on beginner mistakes.
3. Edge Beveler + Burnisher Combo
A good edge can turn an amateur project into a pro-level finish. I’ve used the same Tandy #2 edge beveler and a basic wood slicker since I started. Wet the edge slightly, bevel, and burnish — simple and super satisfying.
Want to see what finished edges should look like? Check out the details on our classic leather belts.
4. Scratch Awl or Wing Divider
Clean layout lines are key, especially when spacing stitches or cutting straight. A basic scratch awl (under $10) will change your life. You can upgrade later, but I still use the $6 one I started with.
5. Quality, Vegetable-Tanned Leather (Even in Small Cuts)
Good leather makes everything easier. Full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather takes tools better, holds burnishing, and patinas like a dream. You can get starter-size panels or offcuts from suppliers like:
Or if you want to see what full-grain feels like in a finished product, grab one of our handmade Tote Bags — they’re made from the same premium stuff.
The Bottom Line:
You don’t need a full workshop to get started. Just the basics, some scrap leather, and a little time. Whether you’re testing the waters or already building your skills, I hope this helps keep things simple and affordable.
Still wondering what makes full-grain leather special in the first place? Start from the beginning with our blog: Why Full-Grain Leather is the Best.
