Jason Stocks-Young
My name is Jason Stocks-Young founder of Diamond Awl Leather Workshop. The studio sits on the edge of the pennines in Saddleworth, where I teach small groups leathercraft workshops using traditional hand stitching methods.
My Leatherworking Journey
I began working with leather over 12 years ago after being introduced to makers who valued careful workmanship, good materials and repairable construction. That approach stayed with me. I worked almost entirely with vegetable tan leather and traditional fixings focusing on techniques that' have lasted because they function well and age properly.
Teaching Traditional Leatherwork
Alongside my own commissioned work, teaching has become a central part of the workshop. I'm interested in helping people understand how things are made, not just completing a project but learning how to measure, prepare, stitch and finish leather so the skills can be used again afterwards. The classes are deliberately small so each person can work at their own pace get confidence with the tools.
My Work and Experience
My work has been featured on BBC Two’s Saved and Remade and BBC One’s Made In Great Britain, programmes exploring making and manufacturing in the UK. I am also a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen and served on the Equity Advisory Council supporting the Craft Councils development work.
I also been part of the judging panel for Collect Open at Somerset House and currently sit on the board of the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair in Manchester.
A Working Leather Workshop
The workshop remains a working studio first and a teaching space second. Everything taught here comes directly from the day-to-day practice at the bench with methods intended to last to be repaired and improved with use.
I am supported by GH Leathers, and regularly deliver off-site workshops and demonstrations for organisations and events including Chatsworth House, Rock Oyster Festival, DS Automobile, and Festival of Making.
Dedicated to the love of my life Louise who shall
forever be my inspiration