My name is Rebecca Eaton, and I run RJ Leather Studio, a specialist leather bag-making school based in Lancing, West Sussex. I teach short courses in leather handbag design and leather product creation, helping students—from complete beginners to aspiring brand founders—turn their creative ideas into finished, functional, high-quality designs.

I discovered leatherwork in 2003 while studying Fashion Womenswear at Bristol UWE, where I graduated with a first-class honours degree. My career began in the fashion industry, interning with Givenchy in Paris and working with designers including Luella Bartley, Giles Deacon, and renowned leather artist Paul Seville in London. In 2008, I launched Rebecca-Jane, an upcycled handbag brand which sold internationally, particularly in Japan, where I produced over 5,000 bags. After years of hands-on experience in both design and production, I began teaching—sharing my deep love of leathercraft and supporting others to develop their own skills.

At RJ Leather Studio, I offer in-person short courses ranging from one to four days. These cover beginner bag-making, intermediate techniques, and advanced product development. We also offer one-to-one sessions for those launching their own brands, developing samples or prototyping collections. I run a summer training programme that’s particularly popular with emerging designers looking to create small runs or explore leather for the first time.

For students unable to attend in person, I’ve developed a growing suite of online courses that teach bag-making using a domestic sewing machine. These come with downloadable templates and pre-cut leather kits to help students achieve professional results from home. The studio also supports small-scale production and prototyping for new brands—something that grew out of student demand.

Our approach is relaxed and welcoming. We focus on high-quality craftsmanship, practical skills, and creative exploration—whether someone is pursuing a new hobby or taking the first step toward a fashion career. Every student is encouraged to follow their own design instincts while learning how to achieve long-lasting, beautifully made results.

In 2025, I relaunched my own handbag brand once again. My new collection features soft-turned leather bags made in the studio, and I hope to share and sell these during the art trail alongside promoting my courses.

RJ Leather Studio is based just around the corner from West Beach, Lancing.