By Valerie Michael published by Cassell Illustrated. With over 60 colour and B&W illustrations.

At last! A leatherworking book for amateurs by a top professional. Valerie Michael, a founder member of the association of Design Leatherworkers, has been a full-time leatherworker for over twenty years, and this book contains the very best of her knowledge and experience. After a really thorough presentation of each of the key techniques - such as finishing edges, paring and hand stitching, making pockets, attaching studs and straps and decorating surfaces - there are ten projects, suitable for developing levels of skill, from belts and wallets to quilted work and three different types of leather bag. Not only is this book an ideal introduction to a centuries-old craft, but its comprehensive treatment of materials, tools and techniques makes it an invaluable work of reference.