Leather Working Tools & Everyday Essentials I Actually Use in My Shop
If you’ve ever worked with leather, you already know this: the tools you use can make or break your day. The wrong tool slows you down, chews up a piece you’ve already spent hours on, or turns a simple job into way more work than it should be.
I run a working leather shop, and the tools on my bench aren’t there to look nice — they’re there because I actually use them. Everything in this list is something I’ve bought myself, put to work, and still reach for on real customer projects. Some of these tools save me time, some help me get more consistent results, and some just make the work less frustrating and more enjoyable overall.
This isn’t a sponsored post or a list of trendy “must-haves.” It’s just the tools and everyday shop essentials that have earned their spot in my workflow. If you’re building out your own setup or trying to fix a few annoying problem areas in your shop, I hope this helps you skip some trial and error and get right to work.
I also want to be clear about what this list is — and what it isn’t. These are beginner-friendly, easy-to-order tools you can grab on Amazon without a lot of hassle. They’re affordable, practical, and easy to get your hands on, especially if you’re just starting out or adding tools a little at a time. Down the road, I’ll share the tools I’ve decided are worth spending more money on for higher quality and long-term use. For now, this list covers solid, dependable basics you can order quickly and start using right away.
Stitching Pony
A stitching pony holds your work securely while hand stitching, freeing both hands for clean, consistent saddle stitching. Once you start using one, it’s hard to imagine stitching without it.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4qwRLeS
Double‑Sided Tape (6 Rolls)
This tape is a constant in my shop. I use it for:
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Aligning zippers
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Holding leather layers in place before sewing
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Positioning pockets and panels during assembly
It keeps everything where it belongs without the mess of glue.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3NBYp5a
Metal Ruler with Cork Backing
A good ruler matters more than people realize. The cork backing keeps it from sliding while measuring and cutting, which is critical when working with sharp blades and expensive leather.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4sY8ZU8
Fiebing’s Acrylic Resolene (4 oz)
This is my go‑to protective finish when I need durability. It seals dye, adds water resistance, and helps finished pieces stand up to daily use.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3NA6Qhe
Fiebing’s Vintage Gel – Medium Brown (8 oz)
This antique gel is great for adding depth and character, especially on tooled or textured leather. It settles nicely into impressions and gives a classic, worn‑in look.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4k0CjoW
Adjustable Leather Strap Cutter
When you need clean, consistent straps, this tool is invaluable. The adjustable width makes it easy to produce uniform straps without constant measuring.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4jW4Hsd
Renia Aquilim 315 – Odorless Water‑Based Contact Cement
One of my favorite shop upgrades. Aquilim 315 has no harsh fumes, is easy to work with, and creates a strong bond once set — perfect for indoor workshops.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4pYpzk3
Tokonole Edge Burnishing Compound
Tokonole is my preferred edge finish. It slicks edges smoothly, creates a professional look, and holds up well over time.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/49USG1y
French‑Style Wide Mouth Skiving Tool
This skiving tool gives excellent control when thinning leather near edges, folds, and seams. It helps reduce bulk and improves overall construction quality.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4bh0pcM
Manual Leather Splitter / Skiver
For heavier leather or precise thickness control, this tool earns its place. It’s especially useful for lining work and layered construction.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/49UHuC2
Flexible Magnetic LED Sewing Light
Good lighting makes a huge difference. This flexible LED light attaches magnetically to my sewing machine and puts light exactly where I need it — reducing eye strain and missed stitches.
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4pWChQo
Final Thoughts
Leatherwork is one of those crafts where small improvements add up fast. A better edge finish, a cleaner stitch line, or a tool that simply works the way it should can completely change how a project feels from start to finish.
Every item listed here is something I rely on regularly. If one of them disappeared from my shop tomorrow, I’d replace it without hesitation. These tools help me work more efficiently, produce better results, and stay focused on the craft instead of fighting my setup.
If you’re newer to leatherwork, this list can help you build a solid foundation. If you’ve been at it a while, you may spot a tool that solves a nagging problem or upgrades a step in your process. Either way, I only recommend tools I genuinely trust and use — because my work, my time, and my reputation depend on them.