Stop buying templates. Start designing your own.
In this brief video workshop, I’ll show you how to design a leather pattern from scratch in Adobe Illustrator — the exact same way I do it in my shop.
You don’t need to be an Illustrator expert to jump in. I’ll walk you through the entire process of creating my latest passport case template set, step by step. From blank screen to final design. Showing you the exact tools and methods I’ve used to make templates trusted by thousands of leathercrafters worldwide.
Even some of my trade secrets! 🤫
In less than 2 hours (one hour and fifty-six minutes to be exact!), you’ll have a repeatable workflow you can use to tweak templates, create your own products, and bring your ideas to life.
COURSE OUTLINE
Module 1: Setting Up for Success — Document & Workspace Prep
We’ll kick things off by setting up your Illustrator workspace and getting your document ready to go. I’ll show you how I like to lay things out, turn on rulers and guides, and create quick reference mockups for the items we’re designing around. It’s a simple setup, but it’ll make everything easier down the line.
Module 2: Designing from the Inside Out
In this module, we start building the actual passport case—starting from the inside and working our way out. You'll see how I approach designing the passport panel, left-side layout, and card slots, plus how to add a clean-looking strap closure. It's all about building the core of your design first, then expanding from there.
Module 3: Stitching Holes Made Simple
Here we’ll go over how to add stitching holes to your design without overcomplicating it. I’ll show you the difference between functional and decorative holes, and walk you through simple ways to lay them out so they look good and work well. This module is especially geared towards the saddle-stitchers out there!
Module 4: Finishing the Complete Case Design
Time to pull it all together. In this final module, we’ll finish up the outer shape, clean up the details, and make sure everything lines up just right. By the end, you’ll have a finished passport case design that’s ready to cut, stitch, and show off.
Your Shortcut to Smarter Templates
🛠️ Dialing In Your Dimensions
A simple way to find your starting measurements without getting lost in the math.
🛠️ Stylizing Your Panels
Learn how to round corners, add closure straps, and avoid that generic look.
🛠️ Designing Card Slots
Add card slots that actually look good and work. I’ll show you how.
🛠️ Stitching Holes—Simplified
I’ll show you a few reliable methods to add clean stitching holes, every time.
🛠️ Guaranteed Alignment
Use my stacking and reflecting trick to keep your panels aligned and fitting perfectly.
Plus more!
Check Out A Sample Lesson!
Still on the fence? Here's an excerpt from one of the modules on customizing a card slot panel.
FAQ'S
Do I need to be good at Illustrator to take this course?
Not at all! While a little experience helps, my design process uses simple, beginner-friendly tools and methods anyone can pick up.
Do I need to buy any leather or tools?
No. This is no project build at the end of the course it is 100% based in Adobe Illustrator.
Can I use a different design program?
This course is built around Adobe Illustrator. You would be able to adapt some concepts to other vector software, but I won’t be covering those directly.
What if I’m using an older version of Illustrator?
Totally fine. I’m not using any fancy new features or plugins—just the basics that have been around for years.
Do you cover how to add stitch holes for laser cutting?
Yes! There's a whole module on stitching holes. I consider it my speciality!
Can I use this process to design other leather goods too?
Definitely. Once you understand the inside-out method and how to build clean layouts, you can apply it to just about any leather project—wallets, notebook covers, you name it.
Is there a refund policy?
If you are unhappy with the course please contact me within 14 days of purchase.