Leatherworking Tools
Make Santa Fe’s leatherworking area supports traditional and contemporary leather craft, from hand-built goods to small-scale production. The studio includes a selection of specialty machines and professional hand tools for cutting, stitching, thinning, and embossing leather.
This area is ideal for makers producing belts, bags, wallets, cases, straps, and experimental leather goods.
Available Equipment
Tippmann Boss Handstitcher
- Heavy-duty manual leather stitching machine
- Ideal for thick leather assemblies and structural seams
- No electricity required
Leather Splitter
- Used to thin leather evenly to a desired thickness
- Essential for layered work, folds, and precision construction
Leather Embosser
- Used for embossing textures, patterns, and logos
- Suitable for decorative and branding applications
Leatherworking Hand Tools
Includes a shared selection of:
- Knives and cutting tools
- Edge bevelers and slickers
- Stitching chisels and awls
- Mallets, punches, and layout tools
Access Requirements
To reserve and use the leatherworking tools, you must:
- Be a Make Santa Fe member
- Complete the Leather Tools Badge
Some advanced tools may require additional instruction or staff approval before use.
Materials & Supplies
- Members must supply their own leather and consumables
If you are unsure whether a material is appropriate, check with staff before use.
Usage Guidelines
- Inspect tools before use and report damage immediately
- Follow posted setup and operation instructions for each machine
- Perform test passes when splitting or embossing leather
- Never force material through machines
Members are responsible for proper use and results.
Safety & Responsibility
- Use appropriate PPE when required
- Keep hands clear of moving parts
- Never leave machines unattended while in use
- Do not modify or adjust equipment without staff approval
Misuse or damage may result in suspension of tool access.
Cleanup Protocol
- Return all hand tools to their labeled storage locations
- Remove leather scraps and dispose of them properly
- Wipe down machines and work surfaces
- Leave the area clean and ready for the next member
Cleanup is part of your reservation time.
