Historic Leather Armour: Crafting and Context

Led by Andy Bates, Master Leather Craftsman, the course combines practical leatherworking with historical insight, examining how leather armour was designed, produced, and used across different periods and cultures. Participants will explore traditional materials, tools, and techniques, gaining a deeper understanding of how function, protection, and craft intersected in historic armour-making.

Across the three days, participants will work through key construction methods, including cutting, shaping, forming, and joining leather, while considering historical accuracy, material choices, and wear. Alongside practical making, the workshop will situate leather armour within its wider social and historical context, drawing on surviving examples and research-informed approaches.

This workshop is ideal for makers, reenactors, conservators, historians, and craftspeople who are interested in historic leatherworking techniques and material culture.

Who this workshop is for:

• Those interested in historic armour, reenactment, leathercraft or material history, no prior experience required.

What to expect:

• Hands-on exploration of historic leather armour construction
• Contextual discussion linking craft, history, and use
• Guided making using traditional techniques
• A supportive, small-group learning environment

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Host or Publisher Leather Conservation Centre