Learn, Create, Connect: Elevate Your Leather Skills with Us!
Our classes at Pendleton Leather Show fill up fast—don’t miss your chance! Learn new skills, connect with top instructors, and create something amazing. Secure your spot now before it's too late!
You Can't Afford to Miss These Classes
Get Up Close with Industry Legends
Learn directly from top-tier instructors who are masters of their craft.
Learn Cutting-Edge Techniques
Expand your toolkit with the latest skills that will set your work apart.
Create Lasting Connections
Build friendships and connections that will support your journey long after the show ends.
This Year’s Classes Will Sell Out – Reserve Your Spot Now!
Meet the Instructors
Broderick Vaughan
Vaughan Gators
-
Broderick Vaughan owns Vaughan Gators LLC in Tallahassee, Florida. What started in 2010 as a new hobby for an avid lifetime hunter turned into a full-time job as a nuisance alligator trapper for the Florida Wildlife Commission. After a decline in the international alligator hide market in 2016, Broderick began tanning all of his own hides at Sebring Custom Tanning. The unique experience of being a part of the entire production process, from capturing the live alligator to making the finished goods, is what led him to develop a passion for leatherwork.
Tim Alden
Alden’s School of Leather Trades
-
Tim Alden has been crafting leather since he was nine, continuing a family tradition that began in 1932. Inspired by his great great uncle, Tim now runs Alden’s School of Leather Trades in Burns, Oregon, where he teaches quality leatherwork with a passion for craftsmanship. Outside the shop, he enjoys time with his wife, Michelle, son Wil, working with horses, and helping neighboring ranches.
Noa Greenspan
NoaLim Accessories & PanAm Leathers
-
Noa Greenspan studied leather handbag and footwear design in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 2012, then moved to NYC and studied accessory design at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology). In 2017, she started working with exotic leathers and hasn’t stopped! She is currently the creative director of NoaLim Accessories and PanAm Leathers.
Braydan Shaw
Burns 1876
-
Braydan Shaw is the dynamic Owner and President of Burns 1876, an iconic establishment located in Salina, Utah, with a rich history spanning over 145 years. Shaw adeptly merges tradition with innovation, propelling Burns 1876 to new heights. Recently honored with the prestigious Inc. 5000 award, the company stands as one of the fastest-growing independently owned businesses in the United States. Shaw's entrepreneurial drive, commitment to modernization, and community engagement underscore his role as a transformative leader in the leather industry.
Sheryl Katzke
Leathercraft & Braiding Extraordinaire
-
Sheryl Katzke's interest in Leathercraft ignited in 1997 upon discovering a set of tools at a flea market. Those very tools set her on an unforeseen journey within the realm of leather that was beyond her imagination. Spanning two decades, she has been fortunate to immerse herself in the study of diverse tooling techniques under the tutelage of several esteemed Masters. In 2001, the venture into leather braiding commenced as Sheryl sought instruction from experts in the craft, mastering the intricate artistry of both kangaroo and rawhide braiding. Proficiency was achieved in round braiding, ornamental braids, delicate edge braiding, and intricate knot work. By 2005, she had assumed the role as an instructor, imparting knowledge in tooling and braiding through classes held in Sheridan, Wyoming during the Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show, catering to both young learners and adults. The year 2020 marked a significant milestone as Sheryl undertook the position of an Instructor at Elktracks Studio Creations, an experience that has proven to be profoundly enriching. Sheryl's artistic endeavors have garnered her a plethora of accolades, including numerous First Place, Best of Show, and Judges Choice awards at County Fairs. Recognition extended to the global stage, with her creations securing First and Second Place distinctions at The World Leather Debut. The pinnacle of her achievements were marked by triumphs at the International Federation of Leather Guilds Convention, where she secured titles such as First Place, Best in Category, Best in Class, and Best of Division. In 2024 Sheryl became an Instructor for Illume Connect. And earned her Masters Designation at the International Federation of Leather Guilds Convention.
George Canfield
EDC Leather, LLC
-
George is a partner at EDC Leather, LLC based in the heart of the Ozarks in Springfield, Missouri. EDC Leather is a small production house concentrating on holsters and belts, and somehow in the last couple of years has moved into the supply side of leatherworking. About 5 years ago EDC Leather opened a new company, Holster Makers Bootcamps and has been hosting 3-day intensive training on holster design and construction a couple times a year. Teaching design and sharing ideas with other leatherworkers is a passion for the whole crew at EDC Leather.
Ben Bork
Cinch Making Master
-
Benjamin Bork has been making saddle cinches for the last 25 years, and for the last 5 years he has been sand casting saddle hardware for Bork & Sons, LLC. When Ben is not working in the shop or on the small family farm, he enjoys reading fiction and studying history.
Leandra Martin
Leandra Martin Custom Leather
-
Leandra Martin is an Idaho native, working in the leather industry full-time for the last seven years. Leandra specializes in high-end purse design and construction with a western flare. She has designed many of her own patterns and enjoys the process of design and construction. She has recently begun teaching classes to share her techniques with others in the industry and will be offering her patterns soon.
Aaron Heizer
Maker’s Leather Supply
-
Aaron Heizer started leather working around the year 2001 while serving in the Army. Wherever the Army sent him, you could always count on Aaron having tools and leather in his bag. He retired from that life in 2014 after being stationed in 9 locations and serving 2 combat tours in Iraq. Since his Army retirement, he has dedicated himself to teaching and sharing the love of leathercraft wherever he goes. He works for Maker's Leather Supply in Waco, Texas designing projects and helping crafters to get to the next level with their own word. Aaron teaches as often as he can at shows, and also holds classes in the Maker's Classroom there in Waco. His classes are geared to help anyone at any skill level, plus they are a lot of fun! Aaron was honored to receive the Al Stohlman Award for achievement in leathercraft in 2025. With the support of his wife, Janie Sue, they have traveled the country sharing leather knowledge and fun with everyone from Cub Scouts to Veterans groups!
Takeshi ‘Yone’ Yonezawa
Yonezawa Leather
-
Takeshi ‘Yone’ Yonezawa started leatherwork over twenty years ago in Tokyo, Japan. He started working with leather as a hobby, but now pursues his passion full-time in Portland, Oregon. World-renown for his innovative lifelike sculptures and fine craftsmanship, Yone has won multiple awards and has been featured in publications and art galleries.
Trevor Alexander
Burns Saddlery
-
Trevor Alexander has been devoted to leather work since he bought his first side of leather at the age of 16. His earlier projects were mainly headstalls, spur straps, and gun holsters. In 2015 he started his career as a saddle maker for Burns Saddlery. Since then, he has worked on hundreds of saddles and has trained many people in the art of leather. He strives for excellence with every saddle he makes and still has the same passion for leather work as he did when he was 16. Trevor spends any spare time he has with his family and friends or riding motorcycles.
Gordon Andrus
Sage Creek Stock Saddle Co.
-
Gordon Andrus is an artist, craftsman, and author. He has been working leather since the mid-1970's when his grandmother, Vera Rees Tippetts, sent him home with a handful of tools that had belonged to Vaughn Tippetts, his grandfather. In 1981 Gordon worked for a short stint at the old Keystone Brothers shop in Denver, Colorado.
Gordon went on to study art and design at Utah State University earning a Bachelor of Fine Art degree in 1986. While in college Gordon worked at the Cache Valley Horseman in Logan, Utah. While working there for Mark Broughton, Gordon built his first saddle using Marks saddle school notes from Jesse Smith. After college Gordon went on to earn a master’s degree in fine art from Alfred University in Alfred, New York in 1990.
Gordon spent 12 years working with draft and saddle horses in the 1990's and early 2000's. He managed the carriage horse operation at Greenfield Village, a historic site established by Henry Ford, before relocating with his family to Cody, Wyoming in 2002 where he set up shop full time working in his own saddlery, Sage Creek Stock Saddle Co. In 2011 Gordon and his wife Maryanne moved again to Hoytsville in Summit County, Utah, where they are able to be closer to parents and other family.
Gordon credits noted Utah horseman Bud Hendrickson for giving him a start with horses. "Bud trained horses for many disciplines, and I'm very grateful for the hours I was able to spend with him in my youth."
Lexi Brunson
Burns Saddlery
-
Lexi Brunson, of Burns Saddlery, started as a leather tooler for the company in 2019 and by August of 2021 was made Tooling Foreman. In addition, to being the foreman, Lexi is a contributor to Illume Connect Magazine and Learn with Illume. She is a mother, life-long lover of horses and an avid hunter and fisher.
Matt Wanner
Burns Production
-
Matt Wanner has been building saddles for Burns Saddlery in Salina, Utah for just over 15 years. He has been a part of the Burns team since he was 16 years old when he signed on to help train race horses with 5th generation owner, Scott Shaw. Matt’s talent for drawing and love of cowboying led him to the saddle shop and he has been there ever since. His dependability and willingness to go the extra mile in all he does landed him the position he now holds, President of Production . Matt has been inspired by some of the greats like Shane Deeter and Chuck Stormes, but he credits the talented team he works with every day with inspiring him to get out of his comfort zone and take his artistry to the next level.
Mark Barcus
Cow Camp Saddlery
-
For over 40 years, Wyoming leatherworker Mark Barcus has created chaps, saddles, and other leather goods while working ranches across the West. He got his start in 4-H with help from his father, and over the years has become widely recognized for his fine craftsmanship.
An accomplished instructor, Mark leads classes at his Cow Camp Saddlery Shop and enjoys sharing his knowledge with others. He has won the open chap competition at the Pendleton Leather Show and has also judged the show’s chap division, offering insight and feedback to fellow makers. His passion is to pass on the traditions of leatherworking in a way that preserves the craft and inspires future generations.
Scott Teaschner
Scott Teaschner Knives
-
Scott Teaschner began his leatherworking journey in 2004 after relocating from Wisconsin to Montana. Following a saddle-building course in the late winter, he spent the summer working as a wrangler on a ranch near Big Sky, Montana. That same year, he invested in his first stitching machine, gathered his essential hand tools, and set up a small shop in one of the ranch’s outbuildings. Over the next two winters, Scott built and repaired saddles while continuing to develop his skills under the guidance of respected leatherworkers R.O. Brooks and Paul VanDyke.
A pivotal trip to Cody, Wyoming in 2006 introduced Scott to a prominent saddle shop, where he was given the opportunity to work alongside accomplished craftsmen. In 2010, his focus shifted to fine leather hunting gear—including knife sheaths—which led to a lasting friendship with renowned knifemaker Terry Knipschield. Impressed by the quality of Terry’s knives, Scott began using them in both his leatherwork and outdoor pursuits.
In 2022, Terry agreed to mentor Scott in the art of making high-end leatherworking tools. Today, Scott combines decades of hands-on experience in leathercraft with the toolmaking techniques passed down from Terry, striving to equip leather tradespeople with the sharpest, most reliable tools in the industry.
Our classes are the heart of the Pendleton Leather Show, designed to help you grow, challenge your skills, and find inspiration with fellow artisans. It’s more than just crafting—it’s about leveling up your expertise and pushing your creative limits. Don’t miss out on this chance to evolve and create alongside the best!
JUST RELEASED
Class Schedule
Day 1
Wednesday, October 29th
Full Day Classes
SOLD OUT
Crossbody Purse with Zipper and Liner
Leandra Martin
- Learn to install a zippered gusset, add a fabric liner, and finish edges for a polished, professional look.
- Discover expert tips for choosing leathers, liners, and materials that add structure without extra bulk.
- Leave with a fully finished crossbody bag, a reusable pattern, and the confidence to make more.
American Alligator Belt
Broderick Vaughan
- Learn to cut and craft a 1-piece alligator belt from start to finish.
- Hands-on experience with premium undyed alligator skins.
- Perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to pros.
Rigid Frame Shave Kit Bag
Aaron Heizer
- Learn step-by-step construction techniques to build a functional, professional-quality dopp kit.
- Master working with a rigid frame design that opens wide and snaps securely shut.
- Leave with a finished bag and the skills to confidently recreate it for personal use or as a sellable product.
Cross Draw Sheath (Includes Knife)
Scott Teaschner
- Build a fully hand-stitched cross draw sheath from precut leather parts—complete with a custom knife by S.R. Teaschner.
- Learn friction fit construction, seamless belt loop integration, and professional finishing techniques.
- Watch a full sheath demo and gain expert insight on elevating craftsmanship, clean design, and leatherworking precision.
Make a Pair of Cinch Safes (TWO-DAY; W-TH)
Gordan Andrus
- Learn Gordon’s complete method for patterning, molding, stamping, stitching, and finishing cinch safes that fit and function beautifully.
- Practice traditional hand-stitching techniques—including tying hidden knots—using specialty tools and materials provided in class.
- Walk away with a finished pair of cinch safes, a full kit, and detailed instructions to confidently recreate them on your own.
Half Day Classes
Bellknife Skiver-Morning Class (9AM-12PM)
Takeshi (Yone) Yonezawa
- Learn to set up and align your Cobra NP4 for smooth, precise skiving every time.
- Master presser foot selection, customizations, and techniques for clean edge skives.
- Gain the skills to confidently skive and split both thin and thick leather with professional results.
Drawing Your Own Floral Patterns (9AM-12PM)
Tim Alden
- Learn the fundamentals of layout and flow to create balanced, professional floral designs.
- Practice using Alden Leather Supply Floral Stencils and gain the confidence to freehand your own patterns.
- Walk away with the skills to design custom artwork, whether you're a beginner or ready to take your tooling to the next level.
Bellknife Skiver-Afternoon Class (1-5PM)
Takeshi (Yone) Yonezawa
- Learn to set up and align your Cobra NP4 for smooth, precise skiving every time.
- Master presser foot selection, customizations, and techniques for clean edge skives.
- Gain the skills to confidently skive and split both thin and thick leather with professional results.
"
My leatherwork always improves after attending the show. I get inspired by the work of others, and new tools always help
Day 2
Thursday, October 30th
Full Day Classes
American Alligator Purse
Broderick Vaughan
- Learn the specialized techniques and insider tips for working with exotic leathers.
- Gain confidence in cutting, shaping, and assembling a stunning alligator purse.
- Leave with a finished project and the skills to tackle premium materials with ease.
Open-flat Leather Cosmetic Bag
Leandra Martin
- Learn zipper, gusset, and liner installation techniques for a polished, professional finish.
- Discover the best materials for structure, durability, and easy-to-clean liners.
- Leave with a finished cosmetic bag, a reusable pattern, and the skills to create more for customers or gifts.
SOLD OUT
Rigid Frame Shave Kit Bag
Aaron Heizer
- Learn step-by-step construction techniques to build a functional, professional-quality dopp kit.
- Master working with a rigid frame design that opens wide and snaps securely shut.
- Leave with a finished bag and the skills to confidently recreate it for personal use or as a sellable product.
Floral Notebook Cover (TWO-DAY; TH-F)
Lexi Brunson & Matt Wanner
- Design, tool, sew, and finish a professional-quality leather notebook from start to finish.
- Build your skills in floral design fundamentals, edge finishing, and burnishing techniques.
- Enjoy bonus hands-on practice with belt tap-offs to sharpen your tooling skills even further.
Half Day Classes
Knife Sharpening Essentials (9AM-12PM)
Trevor Alexander
- Master the techniques to sharpen head knives, French edgers, and other essential leatherworking tools.
- Learn how to achieve a razor-sharp edge for better precision, efficiency, and safety in your shop.
- Leave with the skills and confidence to maintain your tools and elevate every project you tackle.
SOLD OUT
Drawing Your Own Floral Patterns (9AM-12PM)
Tim Alden
- Learn the fundamentals of layout and flow to create balanced, professional floral designs.
- Practice using Alden Leather Supply Floral Stencils and gain the confidence to freehand your own patterns.
- Walk away with the skills to design custom artwork, whether you're a beginner or ready to take your tooling to the next level.
Pancake Holster Design Class (1PM-5PM)
George Canfield
- Learn to design multiple holster styles, including molded retention, thumb break, and snapcake holsters.
- Gain hands-on experience creating, critiquing, and refining your own holster patterns from start to finish.
- Take home a full toolkit: George’s holster design book, acrylic templates, reference patterns, and a holster kit to continue your work.
Pattern Development for Handbags (1PM-5PM)
Noa Greenspan
- Learn to break down handbag designs and create your own patterns using simple tools.
- Design a basic tote pattern while picking up tips, tricks, and answers to your pattern-making questions.
- Discover how to lay out patterns on exotic leathers for maximum impact and minimal waste.
"
I loved the show and I'll definitely be back next year. The classes I took were worth the time and money and the instructors were very well chosen.
- Jay Son
Day 3
Friday, October 31
Full Day Classes
Build a Professional Bible Case
Leandra Martin
- Learn zipper installation, lining, and edge finishing as you craft a clean, professional 8″ x 10″ Bible case.
- Gain hands-on experience in bag construction techniques that will elevate all your future projects.
- Walk away with a polished, ready-to-use case and the confidence to create more for yourself or your customers.
The Keys to Mastering Your Tools and Your Design Process
Gordan Andrus
- Uncover what’s really holding you back in the creative process—and learn how to move past it with clarity and confidence.
- Explore flow, detail, and design through slides, discussion, and guided exercises that will reshape how you approach your work.
- Walk away with a powerful note-taking handout, deeper insight into your tools, and a clearer path forward in your leathercraft.
Basic Cinch Making
Benjamin Bork
- Learn step-by-step how to make a 17-strand cinch with a centered diamond pattern using traditional knots and proper tension.
- Complete your own cinch during class and take home a free kit to make another one on your own.
- Gain hands-on experience with blend cord, zinc rings, and all the tools needed to master foundational cinch-making skills.
Half Day Classes
Knife Sharpening Essentials (9AM-12PM)
Trevor Alexander
- Join Trevor Alexander to master knife sharpening, essential for every leather craftsman.
- Learn to sharpen tools like French edgers, head knives, and round knives with precision and safety.
- Ideal for all skill levels, this class ensures your tools stay razor-sharp for any project.
Glues, Dyes & Finishes Demystified (9AM-12PM)
Sheryl Katzke
- Learn the what, why, and how of glues, dyes, antiques, and finishes—so you can choose the right products with confidence.
- Get expert answers to all your leather finishing questions in a clear, no-fluff format.
- Walk away with real-world knowledge you can apply immediately to improve the look and durability of your work.
The Art & History of Chap Making (9AM-12PM)
Mark Barcus
- Explore the rich heritage of chap design—from shotgun to woolies—and why each style was built the way it was.
- Ask your questions, share your challenges, and gain insight from a master craftsman with decades of experience.
- Take home a historical handout featuring yoke examples and chap illustrations from the 1920s for your own reference.
Taco Holster (1PM-5PM)
George Canfield
- Learn to design custom taco-style holsters—including options for thumb breaks and weapon-mounted lights.
- Create, critique, and refine your own working holster patterns with expert guidance.
- Take home George’s taco holster textbook, design templates, reference patterns, and a full holster kit to continue building.
Doggie Poop Bag Holder (1PM-5PM)
Sheryl Katzke
- Create a stylish, functional leather accessory your dog (and you) will love.
- Learn basic leatherworking skills in a fun, beginner-friendly environment.
- Walk away with a finished project that’s as practical as it is paw-sitively adorable. 🐾
You Can Sew, Too (1PM-5PM)
Aaron Heizer
- Learn the basics of the Cobra sewing machine, from threading to proper tension adjustments.
- Understand thread, needles, and essential sewing tips that make every project easier.
- Gain the confidence to sew clean, professional seams and choose the right machine for your needs.
CLASS REFUND POLICY:
100% refund through October 1st
80% refund through October 20th
No refund from October 21st through the end of the show
Past Student Projects
Day 4
Saturday, November 1
Full Day Classes
Making Chink & Chap Patterns
Gordon Andrus
- Learn Gordon’s step-by-step system for taking accurate measurements and creating custom-fitted chink and chap patterns.
- Use the included Pattern Generator template, order form, and measuring chart to draft your own pattern during class.
- Walk away with a repeatable process and the confidence to create leggings that fit beautifully every time.
Time-Saving Belt Tap-Offs
Lexi Brunson
- Learn how to create and use tap-offs to transfer tooling patterns with precision and repeatability.
- Build a reusable belt design tap-off you can use again and again to save time on future projects.
- Gain hands-on instruction to streamline your process and level up your leather tooling workflow.
Fundamentals of Quality Tooling
Mark Barcus
- Master the art of leather casing and foundational tooling techniques for sharp, professional results.
- Follow along with two hands-on practice projects and get real-time coaching on swivel knife control, beveling, and more.
- Leave with two completed patterns, a quick-reference tooling guide, and lifetime access to Mark’s online course.
Half Day Classes
SOLD OUT
Kids Learning Leather (9AM-12PM)
Sheryl Katzke
- Introduce young makers to the world of leathercraft with hands-on stamping and simple project assembly.
- Each child receives a beginner kit with leather pieces and basic tools to keep and use at home.
- Spark creativity and build confidence through a fun, skill-building experience in the leather shop.
Profit, Pricing, & Perseverance (9AM-12PM)
Braydan Shaw
- Learn how to lead your leather business through uncertain times with proven strategies for cash flow, pricing, and resilience.
- Gain practical tools from a 58-page workbook packed with actionable insights—and yours to keep.
- Join a candid, conversation-style workshop where you can ask questions, share challenges, and walk away with real clarity.
Hardware Tips & Tricks (9AM-12PM)
Aaron Heizer
- Learn how (and when) to install snaps, rivets, buckles, conchos, and other essential hardware like a pro.
- Pick up practical extras—like bleed knots, tassels, scalloped edges, and hole-punching tips—that elevate your work.
- Get answers to those “I’ve always wondered…” questions in a judgment-free, hands-on learning space.
Learning About Leather Inlay (9AM-12PM)
Leandra Martin
- Learn the step-by-step process for creating clean, eye-catching leather inlays with a signature “puffy” finish.
- Master skiving techniques and get hands-on experience with a roller foot sewing machine.
- Practice adding initials and lettering—perfect for custom work that clients love.
IWB Holster Design (1PM-5PM)
George Canfield
- Learn to design multiple IWB holster styles—including 8-degree, negative cant, and thumb break patterns.
- Receive George’s full holster design toolkit: textbook, acrylic templates, StitchTraces, and a clicked-out holster kit.
- Refine your patterns through guided critique and walk away with the skills to design holsters from the ground up.
FAQ
-
Yes, you can register for classes in person at the show, but please note that many classes sell out quickly. We recommend registering online in advance to ensure you secure a spot in your preferred class.
-
Our classes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned leatherworkers. Our instructors will be able to guide you through the class of your choice. So don’t fret, you will accomplish what you set out to do.
-
Most classes provide all the necessary materials and tools, but specific classes might require you to bring certain items. Check the class description for details on what’s included and what you might need to bring.
-
If a class is sold out, we encourage you to explore other available classes that might interest you. Since our classes are popular and fill up quickly, it's best to register as soon as possible to secure your spot.
Hear from Past Students
Personal Note from Misty
Hey there,
We’re so excited to have you join us at this year’s Pendleton Leather Show! This event is all about bringing people like you together—those who love creativity, connection, and learning new things. We’ve put together a mix of classes with top-notch instructors that we think you’ll really enjoy.
Whether you're here to learn, share what you know, or just connect with others who share your passion, you’re going to make our community even better. Let’s make some amazing memories together!
See you in Pendleton!
Warm regards,
Misty & The Pendleton Leather Show Team