Top Tools Every Leather Artist Needs

Discover the must-haves for anyone working with leather, whether for repair, art, or fashion.

Leather crafting is one of those hobbies that’s half skill, half patience—and entirely addicting. Whether you're customizing sneakers, restoring a beloved vintage bag, or handcrafting wallets and belts, the tools you use will directly impact the results. Just like a painter needs the right brushes, a leather artist relies on a specific set of essentials to make every project look sharp and last long.

One name that regularly comes up in the leathercraft world is Angelus Direct. From premium leather paints to essential prep materials, Angelus is a favorite among sneaker artists, restoration experts, and DIYers for good reason. Their supplies are known for quality and reliability, making them a trusted partner for both professionals and passionate hobbyists.

So whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your kit, here’s a breakdown of the top tools every leather artist needs in their workspace.

1. Sharp Cutting Tools

Before you can shape leather into something beautiful, you’ve got to cut it down to size. A clean, accurate cut saves you trouble later when stitching, burnishing, or painting. Here are a few tools that make that happen:

Rotary Cutters – Perfect for long, straight cuts. These are a go-to for larger projects like bags and belts.
Precision Knives (e.g., X-Acto or Utility Knives) – Ideal for detailed patterns, logos, or curved shapes.
Cutting Mat – A self-healing mat not only protects your surfaces but also extends the life of your blades.

Dull blades and guesswork cuts can quickly derail a project. Keep your blades sharp, and always measure twice, cut once!

2. Leather Dyes, Paints, and Finishes

Color is where leather work gets creative—and messy in the best way. Whether you’re dyeing a raw hide or painting custom artwork on a sneaker, your color supplies matter.

Angelus Direct is especially popular for its wide selection of leather paints in vibrant colors, plus finishers that protect your artwork from cracking or fading. Key items to have:

Leather Paints – Flexible, waterproof, and available in matte, satin, or gloss finishes.
Leather Dyes – Perfect for full-color saturation across large pieces.
Finishers & Sealers – Help lock in your work and resist wear.

Pro tip: Always test your color on a scrap piece of leather before applying it to your main project. What looks burgundy in the bottle might look more like cabernet on the hide!

3. Prep and Cleaning Products

Before painting or dyeing, leather needs a clean, prepped surface. Oils, waxes, or old finishes can interfere with color absorption or adhesion.

Your cleaning kit should include:

Leather Preparer/Deglazer – Removes dirt, wax, and finishes to prepare the surface for dye or paint.
Cotton Rags or Microfiber Cloths – For wiping and buffing.
Applicator Daubers or Sponges – For applying dye or cleaner evenly.

Think of prep as priming a canvas—it's a non-negotiable step if you want the best results.

4. Burnishing and Edge Tools

The edges of your leather project are like the frame to a painting: they don’t always get the spotlight, but they elevate the entire piece.

You’ll want:

Edge Beveler – Trims the edge to remove sharp corners and create a rounded profile.
Burnishing Tool (Wood or Bone) – Used to rub and smooth the edge.
Edge Paint or Gum Tragacanth – Adds color and seals the edge to prevent fraying.

Good burnishing takes time, but the polished result is worth every minute. Plus, there's something oddly satisfying about watching a rough edge turn silky smooth.

5. Hole Punches and Stitching Tools

Whether you’re hand-sewing or adding rivets, hole punches and stitching tools are essential for most leather projects.

Here’s what to include:

Hole Punch Set – A rotary punch or set of individual sizes lets you create holes for stitching, snaps, or grommets.
Pricking Irons or Stitching Chisels – Help you space stitches evenly.
Stitching Awl – Ideal for creating or enlarging holes in thicker leather.
Needles and Waxed Thread – A strong, slightly tacky thread that won’t fray.

If you’ve never hand-stitched leather before, be prepared—it’s slow but incredibly rewarding. Plus, your stitches will likely outlast most factory-made seams.

6. Hardware Tools: Rivets, Snaps, and Setters

Hardware adds both function and flair. To install it cleanly, you’ll need the right setting tools.

Common items include:

Rivet Setters and Anvils – Used with a mallet to secure rivets or snaps.
Snap Kits – For bags, wallets, and belts.
Grommet Tools – Reinforce holes for laces or decorative accents.
Rubber or Wooden Mallet – Won’t damage leather like metal hammers might.

If you’re planning to add hardware, be sure to measure twice and punch once—once a hole is made, there’s no going back!

7. Brushes and Detail Tools

Paintbrushes are the unsung heroes of leather customization. If you're into hand-painted designs or lettering, good brushes are non-negotiable.

Look for:

Fine-Tipped Brushes – For lettering, outlines, and small details.
Flat Brushes – Great for smooth fills.
Daubers or Foam Applicators – Useful for quick dye or prep application.

Some artists even use airbrushes for large projects or complex gradients—but that’s a whole other toolset!

8. Measuring and Marking Tools

Accuracy counts in leatherwork. Unlike fabric, leather doesn’t easily hide mistakes—so you’ll want tools that help you plan and place with precision.

Must-haves include:

Metal Ruler or Straight Edge – For marking straight lines.
Wing Divider – Spaces out stitch marks or cuts.
Scratch Awl or Silver Pen – For marking lines that are easy to follow but won’t be visible later.

Your eye might be good, but the ruler never lies.

9. Organizational Tools

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a tidy workspace. A cluttered bench leads to lost tools and creative frustration.

Consider:

Tool Rolls or Pegboards – For storing cutting and stitching tools.
Plastic Bins or Drawer Dividers – Great for hardware and thread.
Label Maker or Masking Tape – Keep your dyes and paints clearly marked.

When everything’s in place, you’ll spend less time searching and more time creating.

Conclusion: Craft with Confidence

Leatherworking is an incredibly satisfying blend of creativity and craftsmanship. The right tools not only make your job easier but also allow your personal style to shine through every cut, stitch, and brushstroke.

Whether you're restoring a pair of boots or hand-painting a leather jacket, investing in the right supplies will always pay off. And with trusted brands like Angelus Direct, you know you’re working with tools that are designed for artists—by artists.

So sharpen your blade, prep your canvas, and get to work. Your next masterpiece is just a few tools away.