{"title":"Tools \u0026 Machines","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"mastering-the-head-knife-cut-skive-like-a-pro","title":"Mastering the Head Knife: Cut \u0026 Skive Like a Pro","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"300\" data-start=\"192\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"207\" data-start=\"192\"\u003eInstructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mark Barcus\u003cbr data-end=\"222\" data-start=\"219\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"240\" data-start=\"222\"\u003eCourse Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.5 hours | \u003cstrong data-end=\"265\" data-start=\"253\"\u003eLessons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 13\u003cbr data-end=\"271\" data-start=\"268\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"287\" data-start=\"271\"\u003eSkill Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Informational\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"573\" data-start=\"302\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"328\" data-start=\"302\"\u003ePrecision starts here.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"331\" data-start=\"328\"\u003eIf you're ready to level up your leatherwork, mastering the head knife is a must. In this short-but-powerful course, veteran leatherworker Mark Barcus walks you through the techniques that turn clean cuts and smooth skives into second nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"825\" data-start=\"575\"\u003eFrom understanding the difference between head knives and round knives to learning how to thin leather for a flawless finish, this course gives you the confidence and control you need to create professional-level work—no matter your experience level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1016\" data-start=\"827\"\u003eWhether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your edge work, this is one tool you’ll be reaching for again and again—and after this course, you’ll know how to use it like a pro.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1048\" data-start=\"1023\"\u003eWhat You’ll Learn:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1103\" data-start=\"1051\"\u003eHow to use a head knife for clean, controlled cuts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1103\" data-start=\"1051\"\u003ePrecision skiving techniques for a smooth, seamless fit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1103\" data-start=\"1051\"\u003eTips to avoid common cutting mistakes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1103\" data-start=\"1051\"\u003eWhen (and why) to reach for your head knife vs. round knife\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1103\" data-start=\"1051\"\u003ePro tips to elevate your craftsmanship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1344\" data-start=\"1319\"\u003e Inside the Course:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1379\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003eHead Knife vs. Round Knife\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1379\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003eCutting Basics + Knife Control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1379\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003eSkiving Techniques for Clean Edges\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1379\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003eTool Maintenance + Safety Tips\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1700\" data-start=\"1679\"\u003e⭐️ Recent Review:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-end=\"1825\" data-start=\"1701\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1825\" data-start=\"1703\"\u003e“Excellent course. I learned many new techniques and tips about the head knife vs. round knife and skiving.”\u003cbr data-end=\"1814\" data-start=\"1811\"\u003e— \u003cem data-end=\"1825\" data-start=\"1818\"\u003eDavid\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2047\" data-start=\"1832\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1861\" data-start=\"1832\"\u003eIncluded with Membership:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1864\" data-start=\"1861\"\u003e✅ 150+ professionally filmed courses\u003cbr data-end=\"1903\" data-start=\"1900\"\u003e✅ Downloadable patterns \u0026amp; checklists\u003cbr data-end=\"1942\" data-start=\"1939\"\u003e✅ Monthly live Q\u0026amp;As with expert instructors\u003cbr data-end=\"1988\" data-start=\"1985\"\u003e✅ Supportive artisan community\u003cbr data-end=\"2021\" data-start=\"2018\"\u003e✅ Ongoing new course drops\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2052\" data-start=\"2049\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2336\" data-start=\"2054\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2079\" data-start=\"2054\"\u003eAbout the Instructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"2082\" data-start=\"2079\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"2336\" data-start=\"2082\"\u003eWith over 40 years of experience, Mark Barcus brings deep ranch and saddle shop knowledge to his teaching. He’s a master craftsman, mentor, and award-winning instructor known for his clarity, skill, and dedication to keeping handmade leatherwork alive.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mark Barcus","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45166222606527,"sku":"HEADKNIFE-BARCUS","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/7367\/6223\/files\/IGgrF4PmTLeFiFLOFaMo_course_20cover_20images_20_88_7ae0c069-396e-4b8e-8924-6cd841612aca.png?v=1770916084"},{"product_id":"how-to-use-the-leather-machine-co-cobra-class-14-leather-splitter","title":"How to use the Leather Machine Co  Cobra Class 14 Leather Splitter","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"96\" data-end=\"203\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"96\" data-end=\"111\"\u003eInstructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e George Canfield\u003cbr data-start=\"127\" data-end=\"130\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"148\"\u003eCourse Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.5 hours | Lessons: 7\u003cbr data-start=\"171\" data-end=\"174\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"174\" data-end=\"190\"\u003eSkill Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e All Levels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"205\" data-end=\"672\"\u003eStreamline your workflow and reduce waste with the Cobra Class 14 Leather Splitter.\u003cbr data-start=\"288\" data-end=\"291\"\u003eIn this concise course, George Canfield walks you through how to safely operate and adjust the Cobra Class 14, giving you the confidence to achieve precise, consistent leather thickness. Whether you’re running a leather business or simply want to maximize every piece of material, this course will help you save time, cut costs, and improve the quality of your finished projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"674\" data-end=\"826\"\u003eWith practical demonstrations and insider tips, you’ll learn how to get the most out of your splitter so you can work more efficiently and profitably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"828\" data-end=\"852\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"828\" data-end=\"850\"\u003eWhat You’ll Learn:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"855\" data-end=\"927\"\u003eHow to properly set up and operate the Cobra Class 14 Leather Splitter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"930\" data-end=\"982\"\u003eSafety practices every leatherworker should follow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"985\" data-end=\"1042\"\u003eHow to adjust for consistent thickness and reduce waste\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1045\" data-end=\"1119\"\u003eTips for reading ounces to irons and understanding material measurements\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1181\"\u003eTime- and cost-saving strategies to improve your workflow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1183\" data-end=\"1207\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1183\" data-end=\"1205\"\u003eInside the Course:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1210\" data-end=\"1264\"\u003eClear demonstrations of the Cobra Class 14 in action\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1267\" data-end=\"1318\"\u003ePractical tips for setup, adjustments, and safety\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1321\" data-end=\"1370\"\u003eReference guides for ounces to irons conversion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1373\" data-end=\"1444\"\u003eStep-by-step instruction designed to improve efficiency and precision\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1727\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1475\"\u003eIncluded with Membership:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1475\" data-end=\"1478\"\u003e✅ Access to 150+ professionally filmed courses\u003cbr data-start=\"1524\" data-end=\"1527\"\u003e✅ Downloadable patterns, guides, and cheat sheets\u003cbr data-start=\"1576\" data-end=\"1579\"\u003e✅ Monthly live Q\u0026amp;A sessions with master artisans\u003cbr data-start=\"1627\" data-end=\"1630\"\u003e✅ A supportive artisan community to learn and share with\u003cbr data-start=\"1686\" data-end=\"1689\"\u003e✅ Fresh courses released every month\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1729\" data-end=\"2175\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1729\" data-end=\"1754\"\u003eAbout the Instructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1754\" data-end=\"1757\"\u003eGeorge Canfield began his leather-making journey at a young age, carrying forward a family tradition of craftsmanship. He later co-founded EDC Leather, where he became an industry leader in holster manufacturing and design. With decades of hands-on experience, George is passionate about teaching leatherworkers how to blend efficiency with artistry—ensuring every project is both functional and beautifully crafted.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"George Canfield","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45172988674239,"sku":"CLASS14-CANFIELD","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/7367\/6223\/files\/5BQjeq4SQEainLn6FACA_Splitter_20Class-1_60b6d99b-cee5-42cd-9cc7-57fd7c18c00d.png?v=1771348781"},{"product_id":"master-the-cobra-np4-bell-skiver-pro-setup-sharpening-1","title":"Master the Cobra NP4 Bell Skiver: Pro Setup \u0026 Sharpening","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"100\" data-end=\"208\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"100\" data-end=\"115\"\u003eInstructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Aaron Heizer\u003cbr data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"131\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"131\" data-end=\"149\"\u003eCourse Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.5 hours | \u003cstrong data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"174\"\u003eLessons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7\u003cbr data-start=\"176\" data-end=\"179\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"179\" data-end=\"195\"\u003eSkill Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e All Levels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"210\" data-end=\"521\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"210\" data-end=\"264\"\u003eUnlock the full potential of your skiving machine.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"264\" data-end=\"267\"\u003eThe Cobra NP4 Bell Skiver is a powerhouse—but only if you know how to set it up and use it correctly. In this course, Aaron Heizer walks you through the machine’s anatomy, setup, and sharpening techniques so you can skive with confidence and precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"523\" data-end=\"692\"\u003eWhether you’re brand new to bell skivers or looking to fine-tune your workflow, this class ensures you get the most out of your machine while avoiding common mistakes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"694\" data-end=\"718\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"694\" data-end=\"716\"\u003eWhat You’ll Learn:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"721\" data-end=\"790\"\u003eHow to identify and understand the key parts of the NP4 Bell Skiver\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"721\" data-end=\"790\"\u003eSafe and efficient setup for smooth operation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"721\" data-end=\"790\"\u003eProfessional sharpening methods to maintain peak performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"908\" data-end=\"965\"\u003eTips for troubleshooting and getting consistent results\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"968\" data-end=\"1011\"\u003eBest practices for long-term care and use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1013\" data-end=\"1037\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1013\" data-end=\"1035\"\u003eInside the Course:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1040\" data-end=\"1056\"\u003eClass Overview\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1059\" data-end=\"1076\"\u003eMachine Anatomy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1079\" data-end=\"1102\"\u003eSharpening Techniques\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1105\" data-end=\"1121\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1123\" data-end=\"1195\"\u003e⭐️ \u003cstrong data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1144\"\u003eRecent Review:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1144\" data-end=\"1147\"\u003e“Straight to the point and informative.” — Les\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1416\" data-end=\"1882\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1416\" data-end=\"1441\"\u003eAbout Your Instructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1441\" data-end=\"1444\"\u003eAaron Heizer, founder of Maker’s Leather Supply, began leathercraft while serving in the Army as a creative outlet. After retiring, he turned his passion into a full-time business, building a family-run shop that now serves thousands of leatherworkers worldwide. Known for his approachable teaching style and practical, hands-on instruction, Aaron makes even the most complex tools and techniques feel achievable for every leathercrafter.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aaron Heizer","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45264959635647,"sku":"COBRA-NP4-BELLSKIVER","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/7367\/6223\/files\/9MqqUw5RqmXIdnEMCcty_course_20cover_20images_20-_202024-12-10T132237.016_9ac8f107-da0c-4d9f-9bec-79dd6e093592.png?v=1773074091"},{"product_id":"how-to-sharpen-leather-knives-for-clean-precise-cuts","title":"How to Sharpen Leather Knives for Clean, Precise Cuts","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"169\" data-end=\"287\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"169\" data-end=\"184\"\u003eInstructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Trevor Alexander\u003cbr data-start=\"201\" data-end=\"204\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"222\"\u003eCourse Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30 minutes | \u003cstrong data-start=\"227\" data-end=\"239\"\u003eLessons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9\u003cbr data-start=\"241\" data-end=\"244\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"244\" data-end=\"260\"\u003eSkill Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Beginner to Intermediate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"289\" data-end=\"611\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErrors in your work are rarely caused by Sharp Tools\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"319\" data-end=\"322\"\u003eIn this course, Trevor Alexander walks you through the fundamentals of sharpening leatherworking knives so you can get clean, precise cuts every time. No more fighting dull blades or dealing with rough edges—just smooth, controlled cutting that makes your work look better and feel easier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"613\" data-end=\"879\"\u003eYou’ll learn how to properly sharpen a range of blades, including straight blade, cuurved balde and head knives. Trevor breaks the process down step by step, showing you how to build and maintain a keen edge without overcomplicating it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"881\" data-end=\"1027\"\u003eThis isn’t about fancy equipment or complicated systems. It’s about understanding what a sharp edge actually is and how to get there consistently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1029\" data-end=\"1197\"\u003eWhether you’re new to leathercraft or just tired of struggling with dull tools, this course gives you the foundation to work faster, cleaner, and with far more control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1604\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1229\"\u003eAbout Your Instructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1229\" data-end=\"1232\"\u003eTrevor Alexander is a professional saddle maker with years of experience building and repairing saddles at Burns Saddlery. Known for his precision and practical approach, Trevor focuses on techniques that hold up in real-world use. He’s passionate about helping leatherworkers develop strong fundamentals that make every project better than the last.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Trevor Alexander","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45264961011903,"sku":"KNIFE-SHARPENING-ALEXANDER","price":27.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/7367\/6223\/files\/Knife_Sharpening.png?v=1773786322"},{"product_id":"keeping-sharp-with-paul-zalesak","title":"Keeping Sharp with Paul Zalesak","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"186\" data-end=\"201\"\u003eInstructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Paul Zalesak\u003cbr data-start=\"212\" data-end=\"215\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"215\" data-end=\"233\"\u003eCourse Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 hour | \u003cstrong data-start=\"243\" data-end=\"255\"\u003eLessons:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18\u003cbr data-start=\"258\" data-end=\"261\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"261\" data-end=\"277\"\u003eSkill Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Beginner\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"isPasted\"\u003eA dull knife can slow you down and ruin your cuts, but keeping your blades razor-sharp doesn’t have to be a mystery. In\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKeeping Sharp\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Zalesak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewalks you through the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eessentials of sharpening a point knife, head knife\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eand Swivel Knife\u003c\/strong\u003e ensuring your tools perform at their best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou'll also learn how to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003emake a strop \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e(one of the most valuable tool for keeping a keen edge)\u003c\/em\u003e. If you're tired of struggling with dull blades and want to learn to maintain your tools, this course will give you the know-how to keep your knives in top shape for cleaner leatherwork.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Paul Zalesak","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45648285499583,"sku":"KEEPING-SHARP-ZALESAK","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/7367\/6223\/files\/MCH9812.jpg?v=1779221375"}],"url":"https:\/\/illumeconnect.com\/collections\/tools-machines.oembed","provider":"Illume Connect","version":"1.0","type":"link"}