Making a Leather Shop Apron

For materials and pattern overview follow the link: www.weaverleathersupply.com/c...
Chuck Dorsett shows how to make a classic shop apron that can be customized to fit your needs. This apron is made from 3/4 oz. Pines Milled leather for a comfortable fit but if you'll be using this for heavy-duty work we would suggest jumping up to a 5/6 oz. leather. This apron features a front chest pocket and two smaller pockets on each side for pencils, knives, etc. We hope this video inspires you to make your own apron!

[@RealDustyChandler]

Chuck Dorsett is the man! Never a boring video! THANKS, CHUCK!!

[@chrisgenovese8188]

Some people are born to be instructors...this gentlemen is one of them. Very helpful!

[@PatH902101]

I especially like the way you take ownership of mistakes which is a comforting feeling that I can also mess up and still recover. Thank you.

[@Mike-ef7xe]

Hey there Weaver Leather. I'm really and old guy who simply works my leather for a hobby. I have learned so much from your videos. Thank you so much for all you put into them. Weaver Leather is certainly my go to shop.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much, Mike! We're so glad the videos have been helpful - we really appreciate the feedback!

[@simplyorange8553]

This guy is the best. I really like his enthusiasm!

[@scottzreality3061]

❤️ Chuck. I like how he encourages putting your own spin on it👍

[@unboostedpueeblood]

That apron reminds me of the one my Dad gave me, when i took Machine shop all of those years ago. I'll make one for my Blacksmithing that I'm picking up. It never hurts to be well rounded !

[@dljrun63]

WOW 😃 Absolutely gorgeous! You make this look sooooo easy. This will be my next attempt for a leather apron. I have never worked with large leather pieces so its gonna take me a big while. LOL Thanks so much for a great video.

[@khaledassaf6356]

Great tutorial as always! I love Chuck's passion in these tutorials!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Khaled!

[@ArcticFlies56]

Beautiful apron Chuck. Your enthusiasm is contagious. You my friend are in the business and with the right company. I watch a lot of videos on leather works trying my best to learn as much as I can before I start to make projects out of leather. Can’t miss with a teacher like you. The different leathers with different thicknesses and what should be used for any given project. It’s difficult but I’m determined.

[@JessicaCEP]

I really like your apron details

[@omarroa811]

Yes, contagious energy... I'm getting the tools to start my projects one at a time. This will be my second project for sure :)

[@zaneamberbeard135]

You have the best energy! You always sound excited. I met you at 2019 blade show and you are the same in person. You looked at my diamond carved backpack with the fox tail and asked if I made it myself and I was almost embarrassed to tell you yes because it was a little rough as it was the 1st one I had ever made and i was carrying it for stress testing. You were so motivating though. Appreciate it!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much! Always great to meet new people at shows!

[@zaneamberbeard135]

My husband was the one who told you he has a friend in Barbados that is so inspired by you.

[@burlshepherd44]

You guys are awesome

[@mitchellnguyen9248]

Your passion and excitement about what you do reminds me of Steve Irwin. Loved every second of the video.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!

[@kathrynnewton8721]

You make me want to get back into leather work, haven't done it for 20 years and sold all my tools. Making an apron for a friend, very helpful, thanks so much!

[@mattsmith1737]

Hey Chuck. I like 2 sided tape to attach to sew stuff like that works great. And start and end with backstitching 3 or 4 stitches. No knots and and won’t come off. You always do make stuff look easy. Lol

[@Banana-ie3qo]

Well done Sir

[@bluegreen5768]

great video you have great energy

[@clark57225]

You are a fireball of energy and enthusiasm. You know your stuff and you pass it on. Every time I watch your videos I learn something that has always been on my mind to learn. Thank you. Thumbs UP. Subscribed.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much, so glad to hear that!

[@johnwildermuth3136]

Pointy toenail clippers are great for cutting thread and lace in tight places.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Good tip, thanks!

[@popefrancisthecreepy6342]

Chuck is the greatest

[@JoeKThePotter]

This is great! 👏👏👍👍😁😁😁

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you!

[@2kidsnosleep]

Perfect timing for this, thanks buddy👍🏻

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you for watching!

[@robthewaywardwoodworker9956]

Great video Chuck. Really top notch tutorial.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much!

[@mattk9676]

im realitvely new to leatherwork. happy with my progress so far. i really wanted to find a good video on aprons and i stumbled across this... Thank you so much for the detailed instructions for us newbies! and i LOVE your presenting style. your enthusiasm and love for the craft really shines through and is contagious. im subscribing so i can enjoy more!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much, Matt! We appreciate the sub and we're so glad the video was helpful. Hope you're enjoying leathercraft so far!

[@pedroimiranda902]

You the best thanks for teaching me

[@martinlavoie4002]

Thank you for another great video Chuck and Weaver Leather. I tackled an apron and wish I had seen this video before would of helped with little details

[@the8biithero]

Awesome Video thanks for sharing, good info for a beginner like myself.

[@robnamowicz8073]

Great stuff, your economy of motion is wonderful. I fiddle a little, with leather, and your vids are more than helpful. Thank you so much, a great teacher. I need a good apron, my old cotton girls are getting pretty, uh, worn.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much, Rob!

[@chrisparsley511]

I really enjoy your videos. I have been off work for several months due to a work related injury. Your videos has inspired me to take up leather working as a hobby, something i can do while sitting and waiting on surgery. I have placed several orders to Weavers just because of your videos. Your videos are very detailed in the tools you work with and the leather that you choose for your projects. Wanted to say Thank You Chuck for all of your Hard Work and enthusiasm you put into your videos, they really are inspiring.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much, Chris! That means a lot and I'm so glad you were able to pick up leather working while you're off work. It's a great way to keep busy and get creative!

[@HeartlandMakesAndOutdoors]

Nicely done on this video guys.. Thanks for sharing and have a blessed week. Oddly enough I am finishing up a heavier one using the water buffalo you touched on earlier, It is for the wood shop, but the lighter one like this one will be my next build for the leather shop and BBQ pit. Thanks again guys and have a blessed week. Dale

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Dale!

[@LadyAnezasLair]

Hi Chuck! Max from South Africa here. Loving the videos as always.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much, Max and thank you for watching! Greetings from America 👋

[@ljr8819]

Im also from these shores........................................... :)

[@davidwalls2757]

Great video love them. Now going to make my own

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, David!

[@johndally7994]

Thanks for another great video. Is there something like spackle for leather? I’m looking for some compound or substance that fills holes the size of a needle, not a big punch hole. But if you have a solution for filling in a punch hole, I would like to know about that!

[@andreatthatsme]

Thank you 🤗😊

[@CantrellLeatherGoods]

Thank you Mr. Dorsett and Weaver! I have been really wanting to make an apron- this video answered every single question I had rattling in my brain- like ounces, length and pocket placement. Are you reading my mind ? 😳🤣 Another fantastic video from my favorite leather shoppe!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much, Choya! Haha, I'm glad we're getting all of your questions answered! 😊

[@TheRedbeardster]

Very useful movie. Thanks a lot!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Artem!

[@georgewashington938]

a project I would like to see is some leather restraints and chaps

[@JBCaudillKnives]

Nice work. A drafting compass works well marking thin leather.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, J.B.!

[@trentonmoonias239]

This dude is so cool

[@talexander7217]

I've always wanted to make a leather apron, but I always end up using the leather for other projects. I settled for a heavy canvas apron with leather pockets.

[@ArcticFlies56]

I love your videos!! Chuck Dorset is totally on over drive. A very like able guy. If you could slow his enthusiasm down a few notches he would be easier to follow. That said he is very talented and knowledgeable. He is definitely the one you want to send to shows. It would really be helpful if you could put a link to you catalog page to make it easier to find the source to each of the parts you use. Thank you. Best regards, Richard

[@princellama6760]

How did I end up here. Now I must do this

[@henniepelser5958]

Hi Chuck, What is your take on split front leather aprons with leg tie backs?

[@williamdillon7852]

First time watching a video from you . Great job , do u actualy have shows ? The background setup looks great too . The clean and beautiful tools , everything has its place . Subed right away .

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much, William! Chuck does attend several shows each year with Weaver and then he also goes to Renaissance fairs and does some teaching on his own.

[@Z0MBAZINATOR]

What would you recommend for making a leather surcoat for medieval use?

[@jimathey6153]

Hi Chuck, U might want 2 tell in your next video about your sky hook 4 holding up your leather 2 sew without a stitching horse, I know Weaver sells them I bought one a long time ago and it works great, although me being a little kid I had 2 make some changes.✝️⚾🙃

[@KevinSmith-gh5ze]

Great video! I've been wanting to make a blacksmithing apron for a while now, so this will be very helpful. I have one question though. Would a single shoulder be large enough for this, or will I need a double?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Kevin, Thanks so much for watching! We would recommend a double shoulder.

[@theholycow6150]

Chuck I’m making an apron for competition barbecue so what kind of material would you recommend something with decent protection but not so hot

[@kensurratt2729]

Hi, Mr.Chuck, I'm totally new to working leather so, I have a question about punching holes. I've watched several videos and I've noticed some workers use the poly boards as you did and some use the granite block ad their base. Which would be better for the hole and the tool. Thanks, Ken

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Ken, You'll want to use some sort of cutting board to punch holes - either poly or a novolene chopping block. The granite block is great for stability when tooling, etc. but you'll break your punches pretty quickly. You can lay the poly on top of the granite if you need a solid surface. Hope that helps!

[@bradymcphail9690]

Hey Chuck, I know this is a year late and it’s been a bunch of years since you and I have spoke, but I just ordered all of my material for my Blacksmith apron. I got electrocuted at work and hurt real bad 2 years ago, just about to be able to get back into the shop for the first time in 2 years I hope 🤞.

[@Majja13]

Great info and great Video. What Leather would you recommend using for a BBQ/Grilling apron?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you for watching! We recommend using a 3/4oz -4/5oz chrome tanned leather. here are links to a few options... Option 1) www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/09-1063s/pines-milled-leather-3-4-oz-/pr_61045/cp_/shop-by-project/miscellaneous/leather-shop-apron Option 2) www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/13505-/old-west-pull-up-leather-/pr_68269/cp_/shop-now/leather/chrome-tanned/top-grain-leather Option 3) www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/09-1039w/elkrun-chap-leather-/pr_56631/cp_/shop-now/leather/chrome-tanned/top-grain-leather Option 4) www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/09-1019s-b5/water-buffalo-leather-/pr_55038/cp_/shop-now/leather/chrome-tanned/top-grain-leather

[@gootube7821]

Wowwwwwww 😲😲😲

[@rickswartz4651]

very nice--I noticed that you almost whacked with the wrong end of the snap setter -I have experience with removing and replacing messed up snaps-a learning experience

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Rick! Yes, you have to be careful with those setters - I've had a few of those mess ups too!

[@jprodriguez8566]

Very helpful, thank you Chuck Keep them videos coming! :{~

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Jp! We're working on some more!

[@TheHragpailian]

how many sq ft of leather does a normal apron require to make?

[@garymclaren7185]

Where can l buy good or better quality tools

[@TheTranq]

Hey I'm interested in getting into some leather working. I looked around but do you have any videos on basic but crucial techniques?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi there! Check out the videos below. weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/cp_/shop-by-project/corter-leather/miscellaneous/getting-started weaverleathersupply.com/learn/leather-101/getting-started-in-leathercrafting

[@TheTranq]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply Awesome thanks! Looking to add some leather working to my woodworking. Looking forward to it

[@GS-st9ns]

I love your shop and I love you videos. You have a good teaching skill. Where do I obtain all of the fabrics and leathers and tools? That's not an easy question. I'm sure we're in different states, but can I Google something . I've been sewing my whole life but I've never Thank you.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi there, Here is a good video and beginners guide for leathercraft: www.weaverleathersupply.com/learn/leather-101/getting-started-in-leathercrafting

[@budsiniard7907]

Great video Chuck

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Bud!

[@bbrachman]

Chuck: Question: I use gloves when dying my leather. Sometimes the dye seeps through the gloves. I need a soap that will clean my hands but has no fragrance or moisturizer. (I am allergic to most of those things) Got any suggestions? Lava with pumice makes me sneeze. Anything else you can think of?

[@PepsiObsessi]

I've gotta say I think a better solution would be better gloves. You're not going to be able to really just wash the dye out of your skin because it's MADE for, essentially, skin.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

I use the Deglazer to clean my hands if I have a really bad spill. It works nicely but it’s a bit harsh, so, I may suggest a basic alcohol or hand sanitizer. This should work for you!

[@PepsiObsessi]

Thank you Chuck! Do you think sometime you could talk about embroidering on leather? I specifically have veg tan/ suede in mind ( vs chrome ). I try to search for info on it on KZbin with little luck, but I DO see it around- I was at Boot Barn just yesterday and saw some really beautiful embroidery work, and that's obviously pretty thick leather to be pushing a needle through that much. I understand if this is something you're not really versed in. Thank you!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

I don’t have a lot of experience with the actual details of embroidery, but, I have some samples given to me over the years and they are beautiful! I may say stick with a thinner weight like a 3/4 oz. and I’m not sure how the suede will embroider because of the nature of the split, but, a smooth top grain will work nicely.

[@PepsiObsessi]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply Thank you Chuck! I guess I'll have to experiment with it a little but regardless I appreciate your advice!

[@07roadking43]

What about making a set of motorcycle riding chaps ( ya know anti holyshit im going down protection ) ??? Love the vids keep it up !!!!!!

[@ItAintMeBabe99]

Nice job ! Approximately what would that amount of leather cost?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much! The leather used in the video is $91 for a side, which will be plenty big enough. It's about 24 square feet. The water buffalo leather Chuck mentioned which would make a more heavy-duty apron is $55. If you click the link in the video description you can check out some of the leather Chuck suggested in the video.

[@joeywalsh4089]

For those of you more experienced, I need some help with tools. I want to get into leather working and need some help. There are tools on Etsy and other sites for super cheap and other ones like on weaver and Tandy that are more expensive. I don’t need a ton right at the start but should I go the the super cheap ones or start out with nicer ones that I think will be better in the long run? Also, any tools I should 100% get to start or should now about the craft?

[@russellj.6708]

Joey, As with any craft or vocational trade such as leather craft I'd advise you to buy only the best and highest quality tools, Materials and equipment that you can afford. As they say Cheap work is not good and good work is not cheap. You will be frustrated and disappointed and possibly stop altogether if you start with crummy tools that do not hold up or perform well.Other than their SKILL a craftsman truly is as good as his tools. There are many places to research basic sets such as Tandy or Weaver or Springfield all have decent starter kits so check them out. As you progress get the BEST tools you can afford as you expand your set up. Hope that helps. Happy Tooling

[@freedomsfortress2841]

What brand of leather glue do you use?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

The glue in this video is the Fiebing's Leathercrafter's Cement: www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/50-2124/fiebings-leathercrafters/pr_27342 I also use the S-18 contact cement if I'm looking for a permanent bond

[@prepperjonpnw6482]

Great video!! And perfect timing!! I need to make several aprons for various activities and was over complicating it lol. I have a couple questions though: 1st what size piece of leather will I need to make that exact apron? 2nd what thickness of leather do you recommend for a more heavy duty apron to be used in either my wood shop or my blacksmith forge area? Thank you in advance for your response lol. I love Weaver leather! Cheers mate

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks o much for watching! To answer your questions - a side or double shoulder in the leather will probably work best, this will give you plenty of leather for the apron and the strings. For a more heavy duty apron, we would suggest 5/6 oz. leather.

[@roamingcelt]

Could you use sheep leather?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

I don't see why you couldn't!

[@ADEL1TASWAY]

does anyone know where to find the apron plastic outline he uses?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi there, The apron pattern was made from our plastic pattern sheet, we'll link it below for you! We don't have an apron pattern pre-made since you'll want to measure and make the apron to fit you. www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/65-4110/pattern-sheet-24-x-45/pr_8876

[@ljr8819]

This "system" should be used on factory machines. Its very similar to the feed of a needle awl machine as we use. Just lot more simple .

[@diamondlranch8541]

Is there a downloadable pattern template

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

We do not have a pattern for this since it's made to fit the person that will be wearing it. We do have the reference diagram that shows the size and dimensions of this specific one: www.weaverleathersupply.com/docs/default-source/chuck-leather-apron/shop-apron.pdf

[@hopeindirect4165]

Well well well, when I put on ma leather, and rock to sum Metallica, Delta Parole, Foo Fighters or the Smashing Pumpkins I feel like I can do anything in the whole wide world.

[@teaenjoyer1676]

Once i get around to making one of these im gonna put a magnet in the chest pocket so i can just stick nuts and bolts to me.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Great idea!

[@minerblue9641]

How did you know I was planning on making my wife a cooking apron?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

:) Sounds like a great project!

[@christopherperrote7780]

The first 2-3 stitches should always be back stitched, same with the last 2-3.

[@matthewtomes9396]

But wait there's more

[@justinelmusico3370]

I love the tutorial and Chuck is an excellent spokesperson for your company but, if I go on Amazon I can find one already made for under $70, but to make one, just for the leather alone is almost $100.

[@lionelspencer-ward3527]

“This project is simple.” “ Really easy, really quick.” Chuck enthuses each remark with all the false passion of the professional super salesman. Simple project, no brain needed...aimed directly at the American market.

[@ukchrisgee]

Width of the apron at the top on your pattern is 7" ???? Surely an error, is it for a child ?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Chris, The apron made in the video is 7" at the top but these measurements are just suggestions and examples of how this specific apron was made - the measurements can be adjusted based on the persons height and measurements.

[@user-vd6lh6cr4z]

Ще й не вечір ...

[@joeywalsh4089]

For those of you more experienced, I need some help with tools. I want to get into leather working and need some help. There are tools on Etsy and other sites for super cheap and other ones like on weaver and Tandy that are more expensive. I don’t need a ton right at the start but should I go the the super cheap ones or start out with nicer ones that I think will be better in the long run? Also, any tools I should 100% get to start or should now about the craft?

[@russellj.6708]

Joey, As with any craft or vocational trade such as leather craft I'd advise you to buy only the best and highest quality tools, Materials and equipment that you can afford. As they say Cheap work is not good and good work is not cheap. You will be frustrated and disappointed and possibly stop altogether if you start with crummy tools that do not hold up or perform well.Other than their SKILL a craftsman truly is as good as his tools. There are many places to research basic sets such as Tandy or Weaver or Springfield all have decent starter kits so check them out. As you progress get the BEST tools you can afford as you expand your set up. Hope that helps. Happy Tooling