How to Make a Simple Leather Tote with Free Pattern

Learn how to make a simple leather purse using a straightforward mini tote pattern and basic leatherworking tools. This tutorial walks through cutting, marking, punching, sewing and assembling a functional purse from start to finish. This project is ideal for beginners looking to build foundational leathercraft skills, including strap cutting, edge finishing, stitching and rivet setting. Follow along to understand each step and create a clean, durable finished piece. All tools, materials, and the downloadable pattern used in this project are linked below. Link: https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/c... 00:00 Introduction to the leather purse project 00:50 Overview of the purse pattern and dimensions 02:50 Cutting and preparing leather straps 04:07 Grooving and edging strap pieces 06:00 Marking and punching strap holes 07:32 Cutting the main body leather 10:15 Marking and cutting notches 11:02 Marking stitch lines and punch holes 12:08 Punching holes with chisels and punches 14:33 Using double-sided tape for positioning 15:57 Sewing the top edge (throat) 17:34 Sewing side seams of the purse 18:41 Hand stitching the bottom seam 21:36 Turning the purse right side out 22:10 Attaching straps with rivets 23:50 Setting rivets and finishing touches 25:30 Final project overview Materials https://www.weaverleathersupply.com Downloadable Pattern Link: https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/c... Holster Leather, 7/8 oz. https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Water Buffalo Belt Strap, 3/4" https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Wooden Strap Cutter https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Stitch Groover https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Master Tool Edger https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Heavy Duty Awl https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Heavy Duty Revolving Punch https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Master Tool Round End Punch https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Redrock Waxy Pull Up Leather, Dark Teal, 3-4 oz. https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Leather Marking Pen https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Poundo Board https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Steel Square w/non slip tape https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Pattern Sheeting https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Round Hole Punch https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... 11 oz. Mallet https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Poly Cutting Board https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... 1/8” Chisel https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Double Sided Tape https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Weaver 303 Sewing Machine https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Stitching Pony https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... John James needle #18 https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Ritza .8mm Sewing thread https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Double Cap rivets https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p... Deluxe 4 Pc Setter Set https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/p...