In this class, you will make your own, top of the line, leather belt using Wickett & Craig English Bridle Leather:
- Learn how to cut a strip of leather using a strap cutter, split the leather to a thinner gauge to make a keeper, and round the leather over the buckle.
- Bevel the edges to take off the sharp edge.
- Use templates to mark the point and where the holes will be punched.
- Use the Mighty Wonder 4-ton clicker press to punch the oblong hole for the buckle and emboss a stamp on your belt if you’d like.
- Use a hand-punch to make holes in the leather.
- Apply clear coat or colored coat to the edges to help with burnishing.
- Burnish the edges and then use the burnishing wheel to finish off the edges.
- Assemble your belt.
- Setting hardware, riveting or handstitching to hold hardware.
Please read our
Class Attendee Policy prior to class.
Prerequisite: Some hand/finger strength required
Location: Second floor Fiber Arts space accessible via stairs or elevator.
Class Size: maximum 5 Age Group: Adults 18+ and Youth 13-17
Youth under 18 must have their responsible adult sign our Youth Waiver at class.
Registration Fee: $50 non-members and $45 members.
Non-members will need to sign our General Waiver at the beginning of class.
Materials Fee: $40 for
- 1"- 1.5” x 80" Strip Wickett & Craig English bridle leather
- 1" - 1.5" nickel or brass heel buckle
- 2 Chicago screws
- Tiger waxed thread.
Instructor: Jennifer MacLean
Jennifer is the leader of the Leather Circle at Makers Mill and a member of the Fine Arts Circle. She teaches Adaptive Arts, Paint Your Pet, and a variety of youth art classes, bringing creativity, care, and inclusivity into every learning environment.
An equestrian for over 50 years, Jennifer developed a deep appreciation for leather through hands-on experience with tack and equipment, sparking a lifelong passion for quality materials and craftsmanship. More than 25 years ago, she launched her own business in the Newburyport, MA area, specializing in custom dog collars and leashes.
A Tuftonboro native and Kingswood High School graduate, Jennifer is proud to bring her skills and experience back to her home state of New Hampshire. In a previous chapter of her career, she worked as an Occupational Therapist and Speech-Language Pathologist — a background that continues to inform her thoughtful, adaptive, and student-centered teaching style.
