Ali Goodman runs Francli Craftwear, a design and makers studio based in Cornwall. Ali makes goods that are crafted with care, chosen with consideration and used for a lifetime. Ali is not only a highly skilled maker, but a thoughtful designer, she has designed our Day Pack rucksack pattern and the Pocket bag.
In this workshop you’ll delve into the world of leatherwork and leave with a Rambler’s pocket, one of Ali’s signature leather products. The Rambler is an everyday essential for your phone, cards and keys. It’s sturdy, practical and will only get better with age. You’ll be able to choose which colour leather you use for your Rambler.
This workshop is designed for somebody with no prior experience in leatherwork. As well as being taken through the process of making the Rambler pocket, along the way Ali will be sharing all her experience with working and designing with leather. For example, working with different hides, the tanning process, and finishing options for different leathers and products. She will also be bringing an array of her made leather goods to talk through. If you happen to finish your Rambler pocket you have the option to make some smaller items. All leather and hardware is included in the price.
Please note that these spaces are non-residential so accomodation will not be included.
The Itinerary -
Meet and greet (optional)
At 4pm on Monday there will be a meet and greet with Ali and your fellow students over drinks and nibbles. We will introduce you to Ali and you’ll get to know your fellow classmates a bit better.
Day 1
Introductory talk with Ali in the studio.
Although your pieces will be pre cut Ali will go over cutting procedures for different leathers.
Cutting + bevelling practice using different knives, stamps and techniques.
Bevelling, sanding, polishing + waxing edges. Begin grooving + skiving components.
Day 2
Catch up burnishing / Grooving + skiving components.
Alternating grooving + skiving components with leather hole punching + rivet pressing.
Initial wet moulding + glueing (leave to dry over lunch)
Initial saddle stitching (loop + fastening)
Day 3
Catch up saddle stitching.
Wet moulding + glueing.
Strap cutting, sanding, burnishing. Line scoring, hole punching + saddle stitching.
The second half of the day is tuition free so you are welcome to spend the rest of the day exploring Rye, shopping or resting up!
Day 4
Continue saddle stitching.
Alternate side seam burnishing with strap assembly
Side seam burnishing + strap assembly. Et voila!
What is included in your retreat fee:
- All of your leather and metal hardware are included in the fee.
- Welcome drinks at The Grove, where you meet Ali and your fellow students.
- 3½ days tuition with Ali Goodman.
- A beautiful seasonal lunch on all days.
- Plentiful teas, coffees and cake at the studio.
- A farewell supper with your tutor on the Friday including wine.
- 3 patterns of your choice from the shop.
- 10% off all purchases in the shop.
