CREATE YOUR OWN HIGH END BACKPACK

Learn From Aaron. In Person.

You've seen him on Illume. Now this summer, build a leather backpack at the bench beside him. Two days, real tools, real instruction, and a finished bag you'll proudly carry home.

Small Class Sizes, 3 Locations this Summer - Waco TX, Pendleton, OR and Salina, UT.
- what to expect -

Two Days. One Seriously Nice Backpack.

2 Days of Guided Learning
This is hands-on from the first cut. You'll work at the bench beside Aaron, not watching him work, and by the end of day two you'll have a finished leather backpack and a clear understanding of how every piece came together.
Taught by An Industry Expert
Thousands of folks have built projects with Aaron through his Illume courses, but the in-person classes are something else entirely. Twelve students per location (14 in Waco), two full days, and the kind of feedback that only happens when someone's standing over your shoulder catching things before they become problems.
Beginner Friendly
No experience required. If you can follow along and you're willing to put in the time, you'll finish the bag. We handle the rest.

- WHAT'S INCLUDED -

  • Clicker-cut, skived kit for one full backpack
  • Straps, foam, and a complete hardware kit (rivets, bag clasp, cart buckles, d-ring, zippers)
  • Printed pattern
  • All specialty tools you'll need on the bench
  • Lunch both days
  • Lifetime access to the Learn with Illume backpack course

You'll Leave With This:

- grab your seat before it's gone -

Dates & Locations

Aaron is heading to three locations around the country this Summer. We've chosen small class sizes for better instruction, so sign up quick!

JUN 5-6
Pendleton, OR
$495 12 Spots

Maker's Leather Supply (Inside Burns Saddlery)
221 S Main Street, Pendleton, OR 

Reserve Your Spot
JUN 12-13
Salina, UT
$495 12 Spots

Maker's Leather Supply (Inside Burns Saddlery)
79 W Main Street, Salina, UT 

Reserve Your Spot
JUN 26-27
Waco, TX
$495 14 Spots

Maker's Leather Supply
215 Cotton Dr, Waco, TX

Reserve Your Spot
AUG 21-22
Molino, FL
$495 5 Spots

Barrineau Park Community Center

6055 Barrineau Park School Rd, Molino, FL

Reserve Your Spot
Good to know

Common Questions

Is there anything I need to bring?

We'll have all the tools you'll need, but here's a few things that might help you through the class:

  • Large ruler (quilt square recommended)
  • Scissors
  • Cutting knife
  • #9 rivet setter with a maul or mallet
  • Small edge beveler (also called an edger)
  • Pen & note-taking materials
Do I need leatherworking experience?

None at all. Aaron will walk you through every step. If you've never touched leather before, you're in the right place.

Will I finish the backpack in two days?

Yes that's the goal, and we've built the schedule to make it happen. You'll leave with a finished bag.

What's the refund/cancellation policy?

Within 14 days of the class, refunds are no longer available, Aaron will have already begun hand-prepping each student's leather kit, which requires significant time to cut, skive, and assemble. Can't make it? You're welcome to transfer your seat to someone else at any time. If the seat can't be filled, we may offer store credit if we're able to fill your spot from the waitlist. Questions? Reach out at janiesue@illumeconnect.com. Thank you for understanding!

What's included in the class fee?

Full leather kit, hardware, printed pattern, lunch both days, and lifetime access to Aaron's Learn with Illume online course.