21 Leather Advanced Techniques courses

Interior valeting is often overlooked as 'simple' but it is a vital skill for any detailer to master - the difference between an acceptable job and a fantastic job can be vast. With the range of materials and surfaces in modern vehicles, navigating the most efficient way to care for interiors is sometimes difficult. Learning the chemistry behind stain removal, the correct tools for the job and how best to employ them, and how to deal with unusual and stubborn tasks is the aim of this course. We push your knowledge further and advance your skillset through technique and demonstration, enabling you to reduce time spent cleaning and re-cleaning interiors, increasing efficiency, and advancing your interior valeting skills to a new level.   Availability  If no dates are showing as available in the calendar, you can sign up for updates to find out when new dates are released and new course developments. Interior valeting is often overlooked as 'simple' but it is a vital skill for any detailer to master - the difference between an acceptable job and a fantastic job can be vast. With the range of materials and surfaces in modern vehicles, navigating the most efficient way to care for interiors is sometimes difficult. Learning the chemistry behind stain removal, the correct tools for the job and how best to employ them, and how to deal with unusual and stubborn tasks is the aim of this course. We push your knowledge further and advance your skillset through technique and demonstration, enabling you to reduce time spent cleaning and re-cleaning interiors, increasing efficiency, and advancing your interior valeting skills to a new level. You will cover: Interior materials - identifying, cleaning and their issues. Removal of components for deep cleaning, including seats, trim and steering wheels. Cleaner Chemistry and how it applies to different stains. Vacuum, steam and wet extraction technique and efficiency. Specific stain removal; such as Biro ink, oils, sand, tannins, paints, and hard-to-shift materials, such as sand, and chewing gum. Pet hair removal and allergen information. Glass cleaning and access. Odour removal and biocidal sanitising treatments. Surface protection - hard surface, leather and fabric protection and application. Screens and delicate surfaces - including HUDs, touch controls and binnacles. Finally, we teach a proven and methodical checklist to run down with each vehicle to ensure complete thoroughness, whilst sticking to an agreed schedule with a client and upselling additional services.   Course Length 1 Day (0930-1600) Location UK Detailing Academy, 2 Purlieus Barn, Ewen, Cirencester, GL7 6BY Group Size Up to 5 people

Launch your Detailing Career on all vehicle types Level One + Motorbike is ideal for those just starting a detailing career, about to enter the detailing industry, or those who wish to reset, update, and refresh their skills, with the addition of a day spent exclusively on motorcycle detailing. The aim is to familiarise the candidate with the processes and maintenance of vehicles from a professional and business view, teaching the foundations of correct vehicle cleaning up to the final familiarisation of entry-level dual-action machine polishers. Business practices and health and safety are explored covering areas such as pricing, marketing, SDS and environmental conformity. This Level 1 Course comes bundled with our One-Day Motorbike extension course at a discounted rate to the bolt-on in isolation, perfect to give you all the knowledge you need to complete a full detail on a motorcycle, including use of paddock stands, fairing removal, mechanical areas, and much more. Alternatively, Level 1 candidates can later book the Learn2 Motorcycle Detailing 1 Day course as a bolt-on, to complete at another suitable time. The aim of Level One is ideal for those just about to, or have recently entered the detailing industry, or those who wish to reset and refresh their skills, with the addition of a day spent exclusively on motorcycle detailing. The aim is to familiarise the candidate with the processes and maintenance of vehicles from a professional and business view, teaching the foundations of correct vehicle cleaning up to the final familiarisation of entry-level dual action machine polishers over the course of 3 days of intense training. Business practices and health and safety are explored covering areas such as pricing, marketing, SDS and environmental conformity. This Level 1 Course comes bundled with our one-day motorbike extension course, perfect to give you all the knowledge you need to complete a full detail on a motorcycle, including the use of paddock stands, fairing removal, mechanical areas, and much more. alternatively, candidates can book the Learn2 Motorcycle Detailing 1 Day course as a bolt-on to an automotive Level 1 Course to complete at another suitable time. Along the way, in addition to the motorcycle training, topics covered will be: Washing stages Wash media Environmental considerations Drying methods Bonded contamination and its removal Wheel care and maintenance Glass and hard surfaces Engine bay cleaning Vulnerable surfaces Efficiency and process PPE and safety Clothing and working practices Risk assessment Chemical knowledge Van set-ups Interior detailing Leather and soft surface care Fillers/glazing Dual action machine polishers intro Minor defect identification Paint types LSPs Final presentation Marketing Conflict resolution and customer care Financing Insurance Pricing and quotes Business Administration Memberships Social Media Manual handling Safe working practices Pre-work inspection All levels are accompanied by a full course booklet to jog your memory when needed. Practical assessment takes place as part of the original training session, at the end of the course you will be assigned a (manageable) series of case studies and exercises to complete over the period of 3 months to cement the knowledge. There is then a short externally assessed exam prior to the optional commencement of Level Two, to ensure there are no weak areas. After which the Level One accreditation is awarded and you can either progress or choose to practice the skills gained with ongoing support. Course Length 3 Days (0930 - 1600) Group Size One-to-One Location UK Detailing Academy, 2 Purlieus Barn, Ewen, Cirencester, GL7 6BY Experience / Qualification Open to all Refreshments or Lunch Refreshments included

Enhance your SkillsBuilding on Level One and the skillset developed, you will be advancing onto more advanced machine polishing and cleaning techniques, to progress your detailing career and skillset further. Existing valeters and detailers confident in their skillset's reflection of Level One's content may also qualify to bypass to this level, should they be able to demonstrate their qualification by purchasing, taking, and passing with sufficient breadth, our online Level One assessment. Machines introduced at this level include forced rotation dual action polishers, every inception of Dual action polishers, both in throw and size. We'll also look at pad types, heavy cutting options and defect identification to assess what can be rectified and how. Interiors are explored in greater depth with higher yield services with 'dry' steam cleaning, odour removal, leather protection and treatment, and stain removal with the associated chemistry. Small area sanding and isolated correction are a key finish to this level and allow you to achieve fantastic results from otherwise irreparable damage Following your introduction skills learnt in Level One, you will be progressing onto more skilful machine polishing and cleaning techniques. Machines introduced at this level include forced rotation dual action polishers, every inception of Dual action polishers, both in throw and size. We'll also look at pad types, heavy cutting options and defect identification to assess what can be rectified and how. Interiors are explored in greater depth with higher yield services with dry steam cleaning, odour removal, leather protection and treatment, and stain removal with the associated chemistry. • Pad types • Compound grades • Rubber and plastic protection • Coatings after-care • Polymer and PTFE exterior LSPs • Glass sealants • Troubleshooting • Accreditations • Financial management • Insurance • Marketing • Pricing • Spot Sanding • Targeting your customer base • Safe working practice • Workshop planning • Intermediate chemical knowledge • Efficiency and time management • Matte finishes • Environmental considerations • Advanced cleaner chemistry • Bonded overspray and concrete • LSPs • Engine bay detailing • Plastic trim restoration • Odour removal • Steam cleaning • Stain removal & chemical principles • Fabric and leather protection • Paint types and their principles • Long and short throw DA machines • Forced action machines • Lighting • Defect identification Following the course, further case studies and exercises will allow the knowledge to develop further as you use it over a 3-6 month period, after which the Level 2 exam is sat to award certification. Course Length 2 Days (0930-1600) Group Size One-to-One Location UK Detailing Academy, 2 Purlieus Barn, Ewen, Cirencester, GL7 6BY Experience / Qualification Completion of Level 1 Refreshments or Lunch Refreshments included

If you want to bag-make with genuine leather but are nervous of trying it, this weekend is ideal for you. It will give you the confidence to make your own leather bags at home and you’ll make some fab friends along the way! VERY IMPORTANT! Before booking, please check that your machine can cope with sewing at least 6 layers of faux leather or vinyl. Flat sewing is fine – if the machine can do that, we can manage lumps and bumps! **This retreat is a little different from many others in that making a bag isn’t the point of the weekend, although you will indeed make one. The focus is on learning new transferable techniques and skills that you will be able to use on so many bags you make in the future. We have our own ‘Retreat Suite’ of rooms, including a spacious, light and airy sewing room which is equipped with a display screen so everyone can easily see demonstrations from a working viewpoint. We also have our own bathroom and kitchen facilities. If you wish, you are free to continue work after dinner and until as late (or early!) as you like. You will need to bring your own sewing machine, fabric scissors and any other favourite sewing tools, but everything else is provided. We’ll have a good selection of fabrics, vinyls and leather for you to browse and purchase if you wish, at retreat-only prices.  Come and join us in the exclusive Facebook group Bag Makers Retreat at https://www.facebook.com/groups/bagmakersretreat/ for all the latest retreat info, chat, gossip and more, plus a chance to meet other like-minded folks.  If you have dietary requirements, please tell me before you book, so I can be sure we can meet your needs. All meal main courses are included in the retreat fee, as are Saturday and Sunday lunches and breakfasts. Starters, desserts and drinks with meals are not included but the meals are so huge you probably won’t want starters and desserts anyway!! Tea and coffee is available whenever you need, but you do have to make it yourself!  If you’d like to stay an extra night or two, maybe to arrive on Thursday or leave on Monday if you have a long drive, let me know and I’ll check availability with our host. If you’d prefer to travel by train, we are happy to ferry you to and from the station, just ask. Please aim to arrive no later than 2pm as we have a lot of pattern cutting and fabric choosing to get through on Friday! Friday The fun starts here as you arrive at your weekend home-from-home – a beautifully refurbished, 4-star 18th century coaching inn with all the comforts you would expect. You’ll have time to settle into your own delightfully comfortable en-suite room which has all the anticipated little luxuries, before an introductory get-together with me and your companions in the sewing room at 2pm. You’ll be given your own copy of the bag pattern, which is very beginner- and strong domestic machine-friendly (see note in bold at the top of the page), but which will incorporate a lot of features and techniques that are also in much more complex designs, making this an excellent springboard to any leather or other bag you want to make. Then you can wallow in the plentiful stash of leathers and fabrics to choose from. All the leather, fabrics, interfacing, stabiliser, threads and bag hardware you need are supplied. As soon as you’re ready, you can start preparing and cutting out your pattern and some of the bag pieces so we can hit the ground running in the morning. After a superbly-cooked and substantial evening meal at around 6pm or so, you are welcome to continue working in the sewing room or to simply relax and chat there before bed. Saturday After an excellent breakfast, we can really start work learning some new skills and beginning work on construction. You’ll work at your own pace from around 9am with no pressure – I want your weekend to be fun and not stressful! We will walk through the techniques together and I will be there the whole time to answer questions and troubleshoot any tricky bits. You’ll also have the chance to try sewing with faux leather , if you haven’t already, and we’ll explore ways and techniques to use and apply rivets.  Refreshments are freely available all day and you can take a break whenever you wish. A light lunch (with homemade cake!!) is also provided and we’ll have a short break in the middle of the day. The rest of the day will be similar to Friday – sewing, dinner at 6ish and more sewing if you wish to before bed. Do feel free to have a walk or just sit outside for a breather if the weather is kind. Sunday How can it be Sunday already?? Breakfast over, we’ll get back to work. You will need to allow a few minutes to pack and check out of your room, as it has to be made ready for Monday’s guests. Apart from that, it’s uninterrupted sewing (with refreshments and lunch breaks!) until your bag is finished. We’ll be heading off for a lightish lunch at 12.30pm or so. We have the sewing room for the rest of the day. If you don’t quite get done, there’s absolutely no need to worry as you’ll easily be able to complete your bag at home. If you finish earlier feel free to head home whenever you’re ready. Amongst loads of other hints and tips, you’ll learn – Choosing and handling leather How to make professional quality rolled handles Creating and applying custom bag feet How to create a zipped pocket the pro way How to use edge paint and get a professional finish with it Sewing the bag together and topstitching Reducing bulk with leather A sneaky way of getting your bag right-sides-out without ugly seams! An easy way to add a zipper pull without tools Working with different types of rivet machine and loads more. You’ll have an exclusive pattern, created just for the Retreats, which includes comprehensive mini-tutorials and full instructions. And I hope you have a lot of fun and make new friends while you learn!!  I never abandon my students at the end of the course so if you get stuck on anything at home, you are welcome to give me a shout on Messenger and we’ll sort out your problem together. The not-so-small print Book your place using the simple booking system below – just click on your choice of dates and go from there. The full price is £465.00. The deposit of £65 is non-refundable if you cancel but can, however, be credited towards a future retreat booked within the next 6 months. It is completely refundable if I or the venue cancel. The booking page only shows the Friday, but the course is running until Sunday. The balance of £400.00 is payable by approx 6 weeks before the retreat date and payment instructions will be sent to you in good time. Cancellations 4 weeks or less before the retreat date can only be refunded if someone on the waiting list can come instead. If you book, pay and attend without pre-checking that your machine can sew the required thicknesses, as detailed in the note at the top of the page, I’m afraid no refunds will be given if it proves that your machine can’t cope during the Retreat. I may have a machine available to lend, but can’t promise one. *Don’t worry that your booking confirmation may be headed Unicorn Studios – it’s just the site that I’ve run my booking system from for years… it’s not a scam!! *

Level Three, the final learning stage of our professional development courses, aims to bring you to the highest standard of advanced detailing skill through the spectrum of; rotary polisher techniques, wet sanding by machine and refinement, a full understanding of SMAT and DAT polishes and compounds and their role in efficiency and correction on different paint types, a wide selection of pads and equipment such as nano polishers and attachments. Mechanical training in wheel removal and jacking on multiple vehicle styles allowing deep cleaning access to vehicle arch and components, and specialist finishes on carbon fibre, GRP and gel coat are examined, demonstrated and explained. Level Three aims to bring you to the highest standard of advanced detailing skill, through the spectrum of rotary polisher techniques, wet sanding by machine, a full understanding of SMAT and DAT polishes and compounds, a wide selection of pads and equipment such as nano polishers and attachments. Mechanical training in wheel removal and jacking on multiple vehicle styles allowing deep cleaning access to vehicle arch and components, and specialist finishes on carbon fibre, GRP and gel coat are examined and explained. • DAT/SMAT technology • Pneumatic polishers and sanders • Advanced Dual Action technique • Rotary machine polishers • Glass polishing • Wheel removal • Under-arch cleaning • Cleaner chemistry • Time management and planning • Trim and seat removal • In-depth interior detailing • Cloth types • Advanced Dual Action technique • Rotary machine polishers • Mini/nano machine polishers • Wet-sanding • Advanced pad types • GRP, carbon and insulative substrates • Badge and trim removal • Texture levelling • Show preparation • Ceramic coatings • Polymer coatings • Coating troubleshooting • Coatings after-care • Fillers and glazes for show finishes • Business management • Business administration • Safe working practices • Safe vehicle lifting - ramp/jacking • Workshop planning • Advanced chemical knowledge • Risk assessments • Gloss meter usage • PPE • Employee management Following completion of training and ongoing assessment, case studies and exercises will lead to the level three exam and, upon grading, award of our advanced detailing Level 3 Detailing. Course Length 3 Days (0930 - 1600) Group Size One-to-One Location UK Detailing Academy, 2 Purlieus Barn, Ewen, Cirencester, GL7 6BY Experience / Qualification Completion of Level 2 Refreshments or Lunch Refreshments included

LEARN HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE LEATHER ITEMS: WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT? This is a theoretical and practical taster group tuition during which you will receive an overview on basic leather craft skills and techniques and realise one or more simple leather items to take home with you.The class will take place in our London workshop where you will be able to see how a leather craft studio is equipped and receive practical demonstrations of common working methods used in the field.YOU WILL BE ABLE TO MAKE AS MANY CUSTOMISED LEATHER ITEMS AS YOU CAN, choosing between a selection of different types of goods such as key rings, glasses cases, card holders, bracelets and more.You will be shown different types of leather and get to understand their main features. You will receive an introduction on how to prepare, mark, cut, edge finish leather and use simple fastening hardware.You will receive relevant, useful and informative handouts as well as lists of leather and tool suppliers.   At the end of the tuition you will have:– Gained an understanding of leather types– Been instructed on the use of common fastenings and closure techniques– Received an overview on the correct use of tools for preparing, marking, cutting and punching leather– Understood and practiced leather craft techniques such as beveling and burnishing techniques– Realised you own small, simple leather item(s) to take home with you WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?This course is suitable for total beginners and beginners with some experience in leather crafts.You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions.   ARE THERE ANY OTHER COSTS? IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING?Materials are included.Feel free to bring a notepad, if you would like to take some notes, we will provide the rest. INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:You will be provided with useful handouts which contain:– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online)– A glossary containing information about leather types and characteristicsHOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This tuition will require up to 2 hours to complete.We aim to provide customised and high quality tuition services and by only allowing up to 6 students at a time, we are able to focus on each person needs and interests.As every student has a different level of ability and previous experience, this course might lead some students to complete the core aspects of the lesson in a shorter time frame than others.Students who complete the course early will be welcome to stay and use the studio facilities to exercise on the topics of the lesson.

This course is not suitable for total beginners. To attend this course, you must already have some experience with industrial machines and be able to operate and set up a walking foot independently, or have attended our MODULE 3 – INDUSTRIAL MACHINE TRAINING. UNDERSTANDING THE CONSTRUCTION AND SEWING OF LEATHER GOODS: GUSSETS, FEATURES AND COMPONENTS This is the forth module of a series designed to provide thorough, professional training in leatherworking, leather sewing, bag and accessory making. Each module has been carefully designed to equip individuals with key skills for starting a career in this sector, broadening their industry knowledge, or embarking on their own journey with solid foundational skills. Through this lesson, you will learn how to construct, sew, and finish some of the most challenging parts of leather goods making, such as straps, handles, zips, pockets, and more. By working on various shapes and structures, you will gain insights into the technical aspects of leatherworking, including preparation, marking, cutting, gluing, reinforcing, skiving, and more. At the end of the lesson, you will have experienced a wide range of techniques, worked with numerous tools, used leatherworking sewing machines, and produced samples to take home with you. By the end of the lesson, you will have: – Received an introduction to leather preparation, pattern placement, and leather marking – Received an overview of leather cutting, gluing, reinforcing and skiving – Learned how to sew and finish zips on leather – Learned how to cut, assemble, and sew simple straps and handles – Gained knowledge on incorporating two types of lining in your project – Learned how to assemble and sew simple gussets – Learned how to construct simple and zipped pockets Included in the course: You will receive useful paper handouts containing: – A list of tools and materials used during the lesson(s), with descriptions and usage instructions – A list of recommended suppliers for leather and fittings, both in London and online – A glossary containing information about leather goods components Find all modules here: https://the-london-leather-workshop.cademy.co.uk/

LEARN HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE LEATHER ITEMS: WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT? This is a theoretical and practical taster group tuition during which you will receive an overview on basic leather craft skills and techniques and realise one or more simple leather items to take home with you.The class will take place in our London workshop where you will be able to see how a leather craft studio is equipped and receive practical demonstrations of common working methods used in the field.YOU WILL BE ABLE TO MAKE AS MANY CUSTOMISED LEATHER ITEMS AS YOU CAN, choosing between a selection of different types of goods such as key rings, glasses cases, card holders, bracelets and more.You will be shown different types of leather and get to understand their main features. You will receive an introduction on how to prepare, mark, cut, edge finish leather and use simple fastening hardware.You will receive relevant, useful and informative handouts as well as lists of leather and tool suppliers.   At the end of the tuition you will have:– Gained an understanding of leather types– Been instructed on the use of common fastenings and closure techniques– Received an overview on the correct use of tools for preparing, marking, cutting and punching leather– Understood and practiced leather craft techniques such as beveling and burnishing techniques– Realised you own small, simple leather item(s) to take home with you WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?This course is suitable for total beginners and beginners with some experience in leather crafts.You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions.   ARE THERE ANY OTHER COSTS? IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING?Materials are included.Feel free to bring a notepad, if you would like to take some notes, we will provide the rest. INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:You will be provided with useful handouts which contain:– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online)– A glossary containing information about leather types and characteristicsHOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This tuition will require up to 3 hours to complete.We aim to provide customised and high quality tuition services and by only allowing up to 6 students at a time, we are able to focus on each person needs and interests.As every student has a different level of ability and previous experience, this course might lead some students to complete the core aspects of the lesson in a shorter time frame than others.Students who complete the course early will be welcome to stay and use the studio facilities to exercise on the topics of the lesson.

This is a theoretical and practical introductory group tuition during which you will be taught common, essential leather crafting and basic sewing techniques.You will be taught how to correctly use hand tools, how to hand sew leather and understand the most common finishing techniques used in bag and accessory making.You will learn about different types of leather and understand how to select the correct type of material(s) for your project. You will receive an overview of the technical aspects of working with leather and constructing bags and accessories such as preparing, marking, cutting, gluing, reinforcing, debossing and more.You will produce your own samples of work to take home with you.You will receive relevant, useful and informative handouts as well as lists of leather and tool suppliers.This is a professional course delivered by a prototype maker and manufacturer, with the aim of providing an overview and hands-on experience on more common leather working practices.   At the end of the tuition you will have:– Gained an understanding of leather types and tanning methods– Understood what it means to work with different leather types and thicknesses and have the ability to source and select the correct tools and materials for your projects.– Gained confidence in using specific tools for preparing, marking, finishing and cutting leather.– Understood and practiced leather craft techniques such as beveling and burnishing techniques– Learnt basic leather hand sewing techniquesWHAT WILL BE TAUGHT?Below is a list of topics covered during the classes:– Understanding leather: overviews on types of leather, tanning, finishings and best use– Vegan leathers: an overview on different types and features– Understanding the importance of choosing the right materials for your project and the right tools for your materials– Leather preparing, pattern placement and marking on leather– Cutting complex shapes using a variety of tools– Using leather punches– Understanding the use of skiving, beveling and grooving– Finishing leather edges: painting vs burnishing– Using various leather glues and tapes– Understand the use of reinforcements, fusings and stabilisers to back leather– To learn basic leather hand sewing techniques– To understand the tools and materials used in saddle stitching– Prototyping and manufacturing leather goods: mentions of different working methods, machines and tools   IMPORTANT TO KNOW:We will always try to cover as much on the syllabus as possible and depending on your ability and previous experience, we might not be able to complete the program or we might instead be able to teach you additional techniques relating to the above listed topics, such as:– Understanding fittings, closure types, fastening techniques and tools: sam browns, magnets, pop buttons, eyelets, etc– Sew and finish simple zips styles, handles and straps– Understanding options and the construction of how to line bags and accessories INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:You will be provided with useful digital and paper handouts which contain:– A list of tools and materials used during the lesson(s), including a description of what they are and how they are used– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online)– A glossary containing information about leather types and characteristics WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?This course is suitable for total beginners, beginners with some experience and intermediate.You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions.   ARE THERE ANY OTHER COSTS? IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING?Materials are included.Feel free to bring a notepad, if you would like to take some notes, we will provide the rest. HOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This tuition will require up to 6.5 hours to complete.We aim to provide customised and high quality tuition services and by only allowing up to 6 students at a time, we are able to focus on each person needs and interests.As every student has a different level of ability and previous experience, this course might lead some students to complete the core aspects of the lesson in a shorter time frame than others.Students who complete the course early will be welcome to stay and use the studio facilities to exercise on the topics of the lesson.

Please get in touch regarding renting my workshop with details of requirementsThanks Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts