What is the New York Guild of Leathercraft?
The New York Guild of Leathercraft is a peer community of craftspeople and makers connected through leathercraft.
The Guild brings together leatherworkers, repairers, designers, saddlers, shoemakers, and other makers to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and build relationships across disciplines.
Our goal is to strengthen the craft community in New York through conversation, collaboration, and a shared appreciation for materials and craftsmanship.
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Why was the Guild created?
Many talented craftspeople in New York work independently, often without opportunities to meet others working in different areas of the craft.
The Guild was created to provide a place where makers can connect, share experience, discover new perspectives, and help preserve the knowledge and traditions connected to leathercraft.
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Who can join the Guild?
The Guild welcomes craftspeople working professionally with leather and related materials, including:
* Bags and small leather goods
* Handbags and accessories
* Leather repair and restoration
* Watch straps and small accessories
* Saddlery and equestrian leatherwork
* Footwear and shoemaking
* Belts and leather fashion accessories
* Upholstery and furniture leatherwork
* Custom leather garments
* Tooling, carving, and artistic leatherwork
If your practice involves leathercraft and you are passionate about the material, we would be happy to connect.
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Do I need to be an established professional to join?
The Guild is primarily a community for professional craftspeople, but we also welcome committed emerging makers, apprentices, and people seriously engaged with learning the craft.
What matters most is curiosity, respect for craftsmanship, and a willingness to contribute to the community.
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How can I join the Guild?
To become a member of the New York Guild of Leathercraft, visit the Become a Member section of our website and complete the registration form.
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Is there a membership fee?
No. Participation in the Guild is currently free.
The Guild is built around involvement, generosity, and the willingness of members to share their knowledge and experience.
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When does the Guild meet?
The Guild organizes gatherings approximately every two months.
Our gatherings, known as Hideouts, are usually held on Monday evenings:
Approximately 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Locations vary depending on the gathering and may include workshops, studios, and other craft-related spaces throughout New York City, including Manhattan and Long Island City.
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What happens during a Guild gathering?
Hideouts are informal evenings dedicated to meeting fellow makers, sharing projects, exchanging knowledge, and discussing craftsmanship.
Gatherings may include:
* Introductions between members
* Conversations around techniques, materials, and experiences
* Project sharing
* Demonstrations or presentations
* Updates on upcoming Guild activities
The goal is not a formal class, but creating meaningful connections between craftspeople.
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Do I need to attend every gathering?
No.
We understand that craftspeople have busy schedules.
Some members attend regularly, while others join when they are available. The Guild is meant to create connections, not obligations.
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What happens during a Hideout?
Each gathering has its own format, but typically includes:
* Introductions between members
* Conversations about craftsmanship and materials
* Sharing projects and experiences
* Informal exchange between makers
Some gatherings may include demonstrations, discussions, studio visits, or special presentations.
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Can I bring something I made?
Yes.
Members are encouraged, but not required, to bring a project, sample, tool, or object they have made.
These objects often become starting points for conversations and exchanges.
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Can I attend if I don’t know anyone?
Absolutely.
Many people attend their first gathering without knowing anyone.
The Guild exists precisely to create connections between makers who might otherwise never meet.
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What kind of activities does the Guild organize?
The Guild organizes activities such as:
* Hideout gatherings
* Studio visits
* Field trips to workshops, suppliers, and tanneries
* Craft demonstrations
* Material discussions
* Collaborative projects
* Conversations around leathercraft history and traditions
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Is the Guild only for leatherworkers?
Leathercraft is at the heart of the Guild, but the craft connects many disciplines.
We welcome people connected to leather through making, design, repair, materials, and related trades.
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Does the Guild work with suppliers and industry partners?
Yes.
The Guild aims to create meaningful connections between craftspeople, suppliers, tanneries, workshops, and organizations connected to leathercraft.
These relationships help members better understand materials, processes, and the wider craft ecosystem.
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What are the values of the Guild?
The Guild is guided by a few simple principles:
Generosity
Respect
Curiosity
Craftsmanship
Community
You can find more about the Guild’s purpose, values, and community principles in our Founding Charter here.
By participating in Guild activities, members and guests agree to support the spirit of the Charter and contribute to a respectful, generous, and welcoming environment.
The New York Guild of Leathercraft 