Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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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: weaverleathersupply.com/collections/how-to-make-a-simple-leather-tote

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
weaverleathersupply.com

Downloadable Pattern
Link: weaverleathersupply.com/collections/how-to-make-a-simple-leather-tote

Holster Leather, 7/8 oz.
weaverleathersupply.com/products/chahinleather-holster-leather

Water Buffalo Belt Strap, 3/4"
weaverleathersupply.com/products/water-buffalo-belt-blank

Wooden Strap Cutter
weaverleathersupply.com/products/wooden-strap-cutter

Stitch Groover
weaverleathersupply.com/products/stitch-groover

Master Tool Edger
weaverleathersupply.com/products/master-tool-edge-beveler

Heavy Duty Awl
weaverleathersupply.com/products/4-heavy-duty-scratch-awl-3-1-2

Heavy Duty Revolving Punch
weaverleathersupply.com/products/imported-revolving-head-punch

Master Tool Round End Punch
weaverleathersupply.com/products/master-tool-round-strap-end-punch

Redrock Waxy Pull Up Leather, Dark Teal, 3-4 oz.
weaverleathersupply.com/products/redrock-waxy-pull-up-leather

Leather Marking Pen
weaverleathersupply.com/products/leather-marking-pen

Poundo Board
weaverleathersupply.com/products/silent-poundo-board

Steel Square w/non slip tape
weaverleathersupply.com/products/12-x-8-steel-square-with-non-slip-tape

Pattern Sheeting
weaverleathersupply.com/products/pattern-sheet-24-x-45

Round Hole Punch
weaverleathersupply.com/products/master-tool-round-hole-punch

11 oz. Mallet
weaverleathersupply.com/products/rawhide-mallet

Poly Cutting Board
weaverleathersupply.com/products/poly-cutting-board-12-x-16

1/8” Chisel
weaverleathersupply.com/products/1-8-flat-chisel-set-4pc

Double Sided Tape
weaverleathersupply.com/products/double-sided-adhesive-tape

Weaver 303 Sewing Machine
weaverleathersupply.com/products/weaver-303-sewing-machine-complete-stand-servo-motor

Stitching Pony
weaverleathersupply.com/products/stitching-pony

John James needle #18
weaverleathersupply.com/products/john-james-saddlers-harness-needles

Ritza .8mm Sewing thread
weaverleathersupply.com/products/ritza-25-tiger-thread-0-8-mm-50-meter-spool

Double Cap rivets
weaverleathersupply.com/products/2200-double-cap-rivets?variant=40909136625804

Deluxe 4 Pc Setter Set
weaverleathersupply.com/products/deluxe-4p-snap-rivet-setter