Craft the Leather Tuscan Residency

In 2026, for the first time, the Craft the Leather Tuscan Residency opens to the public.

Spend a week inside the vegetable-tanned leather district of Tuscany.

We visit tanneries, understanding the chemistry and sustainability behind one of the world's oldest materials, and learning how it moves, molds, and responds in your hands.

No prior experience is needed.

This is a week of experimentation, material discovery, and hands-on making; guided by an Italian master craftsman and shared with a community of designers, educators, and makers from around the world.

You will understand vegetable-tanned leather from origin to object:

• how it is produced

• what makes it precious

• learning to play & craft with shape, dyeing, tooled, and it’s ability to be transformed

And, at the end of the week, you will:

• have your own version of designing with vegge tanned leather

• built & networked with community of learners & makers

• feel the restoration of studio play in the countryside of Tuscany.

Formally endorsed by the Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale.