Andrew Bates

About Andrew Bates
With almost forty years of experience I work to commission and create bespoke, handstitched leathergoods such as belts, bags and cases alongside pieces for museums, TV, film, theatre and opera.
My original background was in archaeology and medieval languages and this led me to investigate historical and archaeological artefacts and to examine how they were made. By doing this I was able to acquire a repertoire of largely forgotten craft skills which I added to my saddlery based leathercraft knowledge, all of which I am able to call upon to create unusual historically inspired- and contemporary pieces. (See the photographs below for details of some of the objects I have made.)
I teach and write about all aspects of traditional leatherwork, the former sometimes to an accredited level.
I also work in other materials such as antler, bone, wood and metals and am able to combine these in the pieces that I create.
Further Info
Specialised in
I take commissions for the following;
- Bespoke, handstitched leathergoods.
- Archaeological and historical facsimiles and reconstructions.
- Costume and props for TV, film, theatre and opera.
- Art pieces and sculpture.
- Leatherwork tuition and consultancy.
- Pieces in combinations of materials.
Open to the Public?
Yes, by appointment only
Provides Course / Training
Yes
Available for Craft Fairs
Available for educational events only
Contact
Andrew Bates
2 College Court
Steven Way
Ripon
North Yorkshire
HG4 2TJ
UK
Anglo Saxon Belt with a reclaimed Walrus Ivory Buckle

This is a vegetable tanned cowhide belt which has been handstitched using linen thread. The decoration was applied using a hand carved bone stamp which is a copy of the C7th ‘Bamburgh Beast’ design. The buckle and strap end are copies of original Anglo Saxon pieces. They are made from reclaimed walrus ivory which was found in a charity shop!