As an experienced leather crafter, I recommend starting with upcycled leather from old bags or thrift store finds—no need to buy new. This beginner-friendly project assembles quickly, zipper included, proving accessible even for sewing novices.
Cut about 30 inches of thread, pass one end through the needle eye, and pull until both ends are even. Tie a secure knot at the ends.
Center the zipper along one 10-inch side of the leather, right sides facing. Sew from the wrong side, starting 1/4 inch from the zipper end (unzipping helps). Use straight stitches near the teeth—imperfect stitches add handmade character.
At the end, knot securely 1/4 inch out: Pass the needle through zipper fabric to form a loop, thread through it, and pull tight. Repeat 2-3 times for strength.
Attach the zipper to the opposite leather edge the same way.
Re-thread the needle and stitch the zipper tapes together at each end, about 1/2 inch from the metal teeth, for a clean finish.
On the leather's wrong side, draw straight lines on both zipper sides, starting 1/2 inch beyond the metal teeth ends.
Sew along each line with the same thread. Expect resistance from layered leather—use a thimble to push the needle. Knot at the end as before.
Repeat for the other side.
With sides sewn, trim excess leather to 1/2 inch. Angle-cut corners carefully, avoiding stitches.
Turn the bag right side out through the zipper opening and flatten the corners for a polished shape.
