Build Better. Craft Smarter. Learn From the Best.
Your Go-To Leathercraft Learning Hub—Built for Makers Who Never Stop Improving
You’re not here to dabble. You’re here to master the skills that set great leatherwork apart—clean edges, solid construction, techniques that hold up (and sell).
You’re in the Right Place If…
You’ve nailed one part of leatherwork and want to master another
You’re good, but not where you want to be
You’re done with YouTube guessing games
Your work looks fine… but it doesn’t feel pro
You want the kind of training that actually levels you up
You don’t need more tools. You need better training. That’s what happens here.
“I scoured the internet. I bought every DVD, every book, watched every video I could find on building saddles… but the in-depth knowledge and fundamentals shared on the Illume platform really made things click for me.”
-John Wayman Woodall, Woodall Custom Leather
If you’re ready to stop piecing it together and finally master leathercraft, then Learn with Illume is for you.
✔️ Stop guessing and start growing—with step-by-step courses that build your skills, confidence, and finished projects.
✔️ Get the “why” behind every cut, stitch, and technique so you’re not just following instructions, you’re becoming a true craftsman.
✔️ Stop hitting roadblocks from YouTube rabbit holes and actually finish the projects you’re proud to share or sell.
✔️ Feel empowered to take on more advanced work, because you’re learning from expert instructors who’ve done it all (and make it make sense).
✔️ Finally have a clear, guided path, so you can spend less time Googling and more time creating.
Ready to make real progress in your craft?
Join Learn with Illume
Choose a monthly or annual plan. We can’t wait to welcome you inside!
Annual Members get exclusive perks you won’t find anywhere else:
- A print subscription to Illume Magazine ($60 value)
- A Leather Goodie Bag filled with premium leather scraps, including exotic pieces our community loves
With Learn with Illume, you can expect to:
- Finally understand the why behind each technique, not just the how.
- Skip the endless YouTube rabbit holes and follow a clear, structured path.
- Build confidence in your stitching, tooling, and design — one project at a time.
- Learn from master leathercrafters who actually teach, not just demo.
- Discover pro tips that save time, reduce waste, and improve your results.
- Stay inspired with new classes, challenges, and monthly project drops.
- Get personalized guidance inside the community when you hit a snag.
- Make real progress — whether you're working at the kitchen table or running a leather biz.
Meet Your Instructors
Jurgen Volbach
Eric Larsen
Noa Greenspan
Cindy Judd
Mark Barcus
Sarah Garvey
George Cubic
Sheryl Katzke
Wendy Winn
Jacee Albrecht
Sarah Lane
Angie Shaw
Ryan King
Zachery Holyoak
Aaron Heizer
Ty Skiver
Tina Hancock
Annie Libertini
Broderick Vaughan
Hermann Oak Leather
Matt Wanner
Lexi Brunson
Chuck Dorsett
Ed LaBarre
Paul Zalesak
George Canfield
Skyler Duckworth
Sierra Rogers
Trevor Alexander
Gordon Andrus
“It’s really structured, really organized, and I can learn at my own pace. The patterns, the tools, the skill checks — it’s all right there. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about leathercraft but doesn’t have in-person access. This is the next best thing.”
-Patricia Ruff
What’s included in Learn with Illume?
ON-DEMAND VIDEO COURSES • READY-TO-PRINT PATTERNS • TAUGHT BY INDUSTRY PROS
Learn new skills, sharpen your techniques, and grow your leathercrafting confidence with expert-led, step-by-step courses, downloadable patterns, and a community that’s just as passionate about leatherwork as you are.
Start learning today—your next project is waiting.
Become a Member
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Pro-Led Video Courses
Step-by-step video instruction from top leather artists covering foundational to advanced techniques—watch anytime, at your pace.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Printable Patterns & Guides
No guesswork here. Download expertly designed patterns and checklists to cut clean, tool with confidence, and finish strong.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
MONTHLY COURSE DROPS
New lessons added each month so you're always learning, growing, and pushing your skills to the next level.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Live Q&A Sessions
Ask questions, get feedback, and learn from master artisans during our monthly live calls. Can’t make it? Replays are always available.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
EXPERT TOOL & MATERIAL LISTS
Know exactly what you need before you begin. Each course includes a curated list of tools and materials so you can hit the bench with confidence—no guesswork, no surprises.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
PRIVATE ARTISAN COMMUNITY
You don’t have to go it alone. Get support, inspiration, and answers from fellow leathercrafters and Illume instructors.
How It Works
Pick a Course
Choose from 140+ pro-led leathercraft courses, beginner to advanced.
Gather Supplies
Every course includes a full tool + material list and printable patterns.
Craft at Your Pace
Watch anytime, repeat as needed — your skills, your schedule.
Plus, You'll Get These Bonuses!
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Little Black Book of Suppliers
Your shortcut to the best in leathercraft — get instant access to trusted suppliers for premium tools, materials, and more.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Illume eMagazine Subscription
Monthly issues packed with expert tips, maker interviews, and creative insights to keep your skills sharp and your inspiration flowing.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Ultimate Business Playbook
Turn passion into profit with step-by-step strategies for pricing, planning, and building a business that actually thrives.
Our students aren’t just leveling up — they’re becoming champions.
