Craft a Custom Leather Tool Belt

The best part about this tool belt project is that you can make your pockets any size, shape and quantity you need. The belt is totally customizable. You can also add loops to hang tools like mallets or ones that clip in place like our Sailrite® Folding Utility Knife.

Our tool belt design features a veg tan leather base with veg tan and waxed canvas pockets for tool storage. You can use either predyed veg tan leather or natural veg tan. If you choose natural veg tan, the leather will darken and patina beautifully as you wear your tool belt and use the pockets. The leather will also soften over time. We chose 4-5 oz. veg tan leather for a stiffer, more rigid tool belt. If you want a thinner belt with more flex in the pockets and tool belt body, you can use a lighter-weight veg tan.

Interested in more leather-crafting DIYs? Check out our Leather Projects page, which features both beginner and advanced leather tutorials. And if you’re brand-new to leather crafting, watch our Beginner’s Guide to Leather Craft series. This comprehensive, five-part video series details everything you need to know to get started in leather crafting. From choosing the right type of leather to learning how to dye, cut, sew and finish a leather project, you'll become a master leather crafter in no time!

Sailrite is your one-stop DIY shop! We are a passionate crew of do-it-yourselfers who strive to equip you with the supplies and how-to knowledge you need to tackle your next project. Do you want to learn upholstery, leatherwork, canvaswork, hobby sewing, bag making or more? We have the fabric, tools, hardware, sewing machines and notions you need to master any DIY. And even if you've never sewn before, our tutorials and how-to videos are designed for beginners and experienced crafters alike.