Getting Started with Accessory Crafting (Beginner’s Guide)

Making your own accessories is a rewarding and wholesome activity that can improve your quality of life in multiple ways. It allows you to express your creativity, develop a new skill, and even practice mindfulness as you focus on each stitch and detail. Not only will we guide you through the journey of crafting gorgeous accessories but you will enhance your overall well-being by engaging in a creative practice.

Learning a new hobby like sewing can feel overwhelming as it requires knowledge, equipment and time. MadeBy has focused on simplifying the process so you can get straight to it! Keeping wellness and sustainability at the centre of our brand, we are committed to bringing you a quality product, designed and made in the heart of Switzerland. This guide will help you understand the basics, from materials to techniques, and provide you with everything you need to get started on your project with confidence.

Why not leather?
Our kits are made from a cactus-based leather, by the brand Desserto. We choose to work with this material because it is vegan, eco-friendly, and simplifies the sewing process for you. While real leather requires more tools and advanced techniques, working with this high-quality material allows you to achieve stunning results with less steps. Cactus leather is soft, yet durable, making it an excellent alternative to traditional leather for crafting stylish and long-lasting accessories.

Another key advantage of using cactus leather is its sustainability. Unlike traditional leather which involves resource-intensive tanning processes, cactus leather is produced with minimal water usage and without harmful chemicals. This makes it a great choice for environmentally conscious crafters who still want to enjoy the look and feel of premium leather.

Essential Tools & Materials
Everything you will need to make your accessory is included in the kit, with the exception of a pair of scissors to cut thread. The pieces of the accessory are pre-cut and come with pre-punched sewing holes, ensuring uniform stitching and allowing you to focus on the joy of crafting rather than worrying about precision cutting.

The kit also includes all the necessary hardware, such as buckles, magnetic buttons, and other essential components for assembly. To ensure high-quality results, we provide premium Gütermann thread, known for its durability and smooth stitching, along with the two needles required for saddle stitching. This ensures that every accessory you make is not only beautiful but also sturdy and long-lasting.

Additionally, the kit comes with paper instructions, and for those who prefer a more visual guide, we offer step-by-step video instructions on our YouTube channel. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced crafter, these resources will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Technique: Saddle Stitching
The kit is assembled using one primary technique: saddle stitching. This method has been used for centuries in leatherworking and is favoured for its strength and durability. Unlike machine stitching, where one broken thread can unravel an entire seam, saddle stitching creates an interlocking pattern that ensures your accessory will hold up over time.

The technique involves using one needle on each side of the thread and criss-crossing them through each hole in the material. This results in a regular, aesthetic, and most importantly, strong seam. The beauty of saddle stitching is that even if one stitch gets damaged, the rest of the will not unravel, making it an excellent choice for crafting long-lasting accessories.

Furthermore, saddle stitching is also a relaxing and meditative process. The repetitive movement of pulling the thread through each hole, tightening the stitch and watching your creation come to life can be incredibly satisfying and stress-relieving.

Your First Accessory: Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you choose to start with a keychain, a small wallet, or even a handbag, the process remains the same. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating your first accessory.

1. Gather your materials – Take out the cactus leather pieces, needles, Gütermann thread, and the various elements provided in your kit.
2. Review the instructions – Check the paper guide or instructional video and identify the first step to follow.
3. Prepare your thread and needles – Cut the correct length of thread and thread a needle at each end.
4. Start stitching – Pass each needle through the pre-punched holes, alternating sides to create a strong and even saddle stitch.
5. Secure the stitching – Once you reach the end, tie a secure knot and tuck it discreetly between the leather layers before trimming the excess.
6. Admire your creation – Follow the instructions step by step and watch your accessory take shape before your eyes.
7. Use or gift your accessory – Enjoy your new accessory or give it as a handmade gift to a loved one.

Common Mistakes & Tips for Beginners

• Pulling the thread too tightly – This can cause puckering. Keep an even tension for a smooth finish.
• Using too much thread – Beginners often use excessive thread, leading to knots and tangles. Measure just enough for your project.
• Not hiding your knots - After making a tight knot with the threads, insert the needles in between the two layers of leather before cutting the threads. This will hide your knots and ensure a clean finish. 

Now that you know the basics, it’s time to start crafting! Whether you’re looking for a mindful new hobby or desire to create handmade accessories, our beginner-friendly kits provide everything you need to complete your first project with ease.

Check out our collection and start your eco-friendly accessory crafting journey today!