My name is Gail Cook. Lee and I live in beautiful central Alberta, Canada. After completing the leatherworkers course at Olds College in 1994 and working for an established saddlemaker for a while I started my own business, the Leather Loft and since then, I have made my living doing what I enjoy. Everything is handmade in a traditional manner in a one person shop. My goal is to be creative, original and most importantly, functional. I am who my customers are and this website is a small sample of some of my work. If you see something you like, here or on facebook, please don't hesitate to reach out.
2023 World Leather Debut
I AM NOW OFFERING TWO CLASSES ON BUILDING CHINKS AND A SMALL CROSSBODY BAG
Large spacious shop
Learn how to make a pair of chinks: Classes are a maximum of 2 students for 3 days. The belts will be geometric stamped and time should allow for some extras such as pockets, brands, initials, twisted fringe or buckstitching. Leather and all hardware is included and you will take home all the patterns used in the class. What you will learn:
Geometric stamping and how to properly prepare your leather
How to choose the proper leather
Where to source leather and supplies
Antiqueing, dyeing and burnishing edges
How to use a headknife and a variety of tools
Fitting and measuring
Proper layout, sewing and glueing
Cost is $1100. per person and a non-refundable deposit of $250. is required to order the leather and hold your spot
Learn how to make a small crossbody/wristlet bag: Classes are a maximum of 2 students for 2 days. The bag will be geometric stamped and time should allow for some floral carving or initials or fringe if desired. This pattern can also be enlarged to fit an I pad or tablet. Leather and all hardware is included and you will take home all the patterns used in the class. What we will cover:
Intro to geometric stamping and or floral tooling
How to properly prepare your leather for decorating
How to make piping
Where to source leather and other supplies
Antiqueing, dyeing and burnishing edges
How to use a variety of tools
Sewing and glueing
Cost is $350. per person and a non-refundable deposit of $100. is required to hold a spot
Lodging is available in Sylvan, Lake Alberta or stay onsite in our self-contained cabin. For more info contact me on facebook, text or call 403-872-3928