From Idea to Finished Product
I’m Gwen, a leathercrafter based in Germany, and what started as making belt pouches for the LARP and cosplay community has turned into a passion for teaching others to do the same.
My journey with leather began somewhere around 2019 with a simple need: functional pouches for festivals and events.
But as I learned traditional leatherworking techniques, I fell in love with the craft itself, the tooling, the stitching, the way vegetable tanned leather transforms with time and use.
These days, Hammer and Dye is mostly focused on helping other makers get started.
I design leathercraft patterns for people who want to learn the craft themselves, whether you’re a complete beginner who’s never touched leather before, or someone looking to expand their skills with a new project.
Why teach?
Because leatherworking gave me so much, and I believe everyone should have the chance to create something beautiful with their own hands. Some of my favorite messages are from people who never thought they could make anything, sending me photos of their finished dice pouch or wallet. That never gets old!
The Patterns
Every pattern comes with detailed step-by-step instructions and many have full YouTube build videos so you’re never left guessing.
No overcomplicated techniques. No expensive specialist tools. Just practical, no-nonsense patterns designed to help you actually finish projects and feel proud of what you made.
Why Veg Tan Leather?
It’s not just durable, it develops a unique patina over time. The more you use something made from veg tan, the more character and beauty it gains. A leather item made well can last decades. Besides that, it is very versatile, you can carve it, tool it. dye it, basically make it totally your own!
If you’re just getting started, the best place to begin is my Beginner’s Guides or browse the Pattern Collection.
Welcome to Hammer and Dye!
Gwen