WORKSHOP OF BAG MAKING

COURSE : LEATHER WORKING COURSE : THE BAG

DATE : 19 /20 JULY 2025

HOURS : 10:30 - 13:00 /15:30 - 18:00

LOCATION : PROMETHEUS STORE & WORKSHOP - VIA GIOVANNI SELVI N.18 SORANO (GR)

PRICE :€ 150 ON OFFER

LECTURER : ANDREA PAPINI

TRANSLATIONS : CIARA BUTTERFIELD (ENGLISH)

STATUS : AVAILABLE

The course will be conducted in two languages, Italian and English using our official translator

In the enchanted heart of Sorano, an ancient medieval village carved out of tuff, amidst stone alleys and silences steeped in history, lies the PROMETHEUS Store & Workshop. Here, where time seems to be suspended and craftsmanship becomes enchantment, we welcome you to an exclusive experience: our Beginner's Leathercraft Course.

An extraordinary journey through the timeless art of leatherworking, amid ancient techniques, knowledge passed down through the centuries and the magic of the handmade. In this place suspended between dream and reality, you will transform a simple material into an eternal object, full of charm and authenticity.

PROMETHEUS Store & Workshop: a place where art meets nature in a harmonious fusion of creativity and refinement. Here, among evocative atmospheres and refined details, you can immerse yourself in a permanent exhibition of extraordinary clay sculptures, unique works by artist Lucia Olivieri. ( www.olivierilucia.com )

Each of his creations draws inspiration from the magic of the forest and the purity of unspoiled nature, transforming matter into poetic and evocative forms. Be captivated by the timeless elegance of these sculptures, capable of evoking deep emotions and transporting you to a world where art merges with the primordial essence of the earth.

A sensory and artistic experience awaits you in an intimate and refined setting designed for those who appreciate the uniqueness of excellent craftsmanship.

"To end in a special way, at the end of the course, a moment of pure pleasure awaits you: an aperitif with a glass of fine wine, selected by an award-winning local winery, LA BIAGIOLA accompanied by a tasting of typical local products, carefully prepared by a local farm IL BIO AGRITURISMO AIA DEL TUFO . You will enjoy bread made with flours from ancient grains and organic zero-mile sauces, all made with fresh and genuine ingredients. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the genuine flavors and traditions of this extraordinary land."

THE LEATHER BAG - A BIT OF HISTORY

Journey through Time: The Evolution of Leather Handbags Through the Centuries

The leather bag is an accessory that has accompanied mankind for millennia, continually adapting to the practical needs and aesthetic tastes of different eras. From a simple container to a symbol of luxury and refined design, its history is full of transformations. In this article, we will take you on a fascinating journey through time to discover the evolution of leather handbags.

The Origins: Primitive Functionality

The earliest traces of bags date back to prehistoric times, when humans used animal hides to create containers for transporting food, tools and other essentials. These rudimentary rough leather bags, closed with ropes or strips of leather, had a purely practical function, but they already demonstrated the value of leather as a durable and versatile material.

Ancient Rome and Greece: Status and Style

In ancient Rome and Greece, leather bags were not only useful items but also symbols of prestige. Aristocrats and high-ranking officials sported bags decorated with elaborate carvings and patterns, used to store money and documents. The leather, treated with rudimentary methods to improve its durability and aesthetics, laid the foundation for modern tanning techniques.

The Middle Ages: Practicality and Portability

During the Middle Ages, leather bags became increasingly common among all social classes. Often clipped to the belt, they served to carry coins, keys, and small everyday items. Decorated with religious symbols and symbolic motifs, they reflected the strong connection with the spirituality of the time. This period also saw the birth of pilgrims' saddlebags, sturdy and practical bags designed to cope with long journeys.

The Renaissance: Art and Innovation

The Renaissance was a time of great artistic and cultural ferment, which also influenced the production of leather handbags. Artisans experimented with new tanning and decoration techniques, turning bags into authentic masterpieces. Accessories became distinctive elements of fashion, embellished with embroidery, beading and inlays, making them coveted luxury items.

18th and 19th Centuries: The Industrial Revolution

With the Industrial Revolution, the production of leather handbags changed dramatically. New technologies enabled large-scale production, making them more accessible to the general public. However, handcrafted bags continued to be prized for their superior quality and fine details. During this period, the handbag diversified into specific shapes and sizes for every need and occasion.

The 20th Century: Fashion and Iconicity

In the 20th century, leather handbags became true fashion symbols. Designers such as Coco Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton launched iconic designs that embodied elegance and sophistication. No longer mere functional accessories, handbags were transformed into style statements. Thanks to new processing techniques and designs, the perfect combination of aesthetics and practicality was achieved.

The 21st Century: Sustainability and Personalization

Today, leather bags continue to evolve to meet the needs of modern consumers. Sustainability has become a key element, with a growing demand for ecologically tanned leathers and ethical production processes. At the same time, customization is increasingly sought after: thanks to modern technologies, it is possible to choose materials, colors, and details to create unique, bespoke bags that are an expression of one's personality.

Leather bags have spanned the centuries, bearing witness to the evolution of taste and craftsmanship, and continue to be a perfect balance of tradition and innovation.

Spend two days in our Bottega, 10-hour course to discover the secrets of leatherworking and take home a handcrafted accessory made with your own hands. A special keepsake that will stay with you every day!

A Tuscan vegetable-tanned cowhide leather bag is synonymous with uncompromising quality and durability. This type of leather is made with ancient artisanal techniques using natural tannins extracted from plants, making it incredibly strong and durable.

Unlike synthetic materials or leathers processed with aggressive chemical processes, vegetable-tanned leather does not deteriorate quickly, but rather improves over the years. With use, it develops a unique patina that makes it even more beautiful and distinctive, without losing its structural integrity.

This bag fights every law of planned obsolescence: it is not a product destined to ruin to force you to replace it. If well cared for, it can last over 20 years, accompanying you through every stage of life with the same reliability as on day one. It is a true investment in quality and authentic craftsmanship.

OUR MATERIALS ARE CERTIFIED AND OUR COMPANY ADHERES TO THE

CONSORTIUM GENUINE ITALIAN VEGETABLE-TANNED LEATHER

Leather Workmanship Course: THE BAG

Course Presentation

Our leather crafting course is designed for all those who wish to learn the basic techniques of craftsmanship. Through a hands-on, progressive approach, participants will acquire the skills needed to make quality leather handicrafts.

The lectures are divided into an introductory theoretical section and a practical section, during which students will directly experience the use of the tools and techniques illustrated.

During the course, fundamental leather processing will be covered, such as:

Cutting and
Engraving and decoration (tooling
assembly and stitching
Coloring and

Students will start with simple exercises to become familiar with the tools, and then try their hand at creating more complex objects, such as everyday leather accessories

Course Schedule.

- Introduction to Leather and Tools

History and tradition of leather processing.
Types of leather and tanning methods: vegetable, chrome, and other techniques.
Analysis of fundamental tools and their use.
Practical test: use of the basic kit and preliminary practice on raw leather.

- Sewing Leather and Creating an Accessory

Types of hand stitching: double needle and saddle stitch.
Tools needed for stitching and punching techniques.
Design and implementation of a leather bag:

Skin measurement and cutting.
Preliminary treatments for finishing and preparation for stitching.

- Coloring, Finishing and Completing the Project

The main types of leather dyes and finishes.
Color application techniques for professional effects.
Leather care and maintenance for longer life.
Completion of the bag: coloring, assembly and final stitching.

Objectives and Benefits of the Course

Learning the basic techniques of leather processing.
Acquire the manual dexterity needed to create unique and customized leather items.
Correctly use tools and materials for precision machining.
Take home one's own personalized craft creation (bag).
To develop a knowledge base that allows one to continue with more advanced work.

This course is ideal for crafters, designers, hobbyists and anyone who wants to get closer to one of the most fascinating traditions of craftsmanship.

TO REGISTER for the course, send an email to : info@prometheus-leatherwork.com

or through whatsapp message to

THE COURSE will be held at PROMETHEUS STORE & WORKSHOP.

at Via Giovanni Selvi n. 18 - SORANO (GR)

THE COURSE HAS A LIMITED NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS

Do you want to gift or have an exclusive and fully personalized experience?

Discover the allure of a PRIVATE One2One COURSE, an immersive journey into the art of leather crafting, where every moment is dedicated to you. Under the careful guidance of our master craftsman, you will learn the finest techniques, shape your creativity and make a unique piece, the fruit of your vision and talent. All wrapped up in the charming atmosphere of our workshop, in the heart of the medieval village of Sorano.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those who wish to deepen, experiment and hone their skills in an intimate and inspiring environment where craft meets art.

Contact us now to reserve your customized experience: info@prometheus-leatherwork.com

“With a solid career on Etsy, Andrea Papini has established himself as a highly successful international STAR SELLER, selling his leather products in more than 30 different countries, distinguishing himself for the quality of his products and the excellence of his customer service. Thanks to his careful management and passion for his work, he has achieved an impressive milestone of almost 5000 sales globally in just a few years, obtaining BEST SELLER TRUSTED and 5 STAR REVIEWS. His ability to understand the needs of the market and to create personalized shopping experiences has made him a point of reference for those looking for unique, high-quality products. His reputation on Etsy is synonymous with reliability, professionalism and a continuous commitment to improving every aspect of his online business.”

https://www.etsy.com/it/shop/PrometheusBushcraft

As well as being a leather craftsman, Andrea is a National Survival Instructor for E.N.D.A.S., an expert in primitive survival techniques and a primitive bushcraft instructor.

He is the founder and owner of PROMETHEUS Bushcraft Equipment and CAMPOBASE Workshop, a student of self-sufficiency and OFF-GRID living strategies, and collaborates with various national and international organizations in the field of Bushcraft and Survival.