Hybrid Leathercraft Instructor at Tandy Leather Factory, Inc.

SUMMARY 

The Leathercraft Instructor is an enthusiastic and skilled artisan responsible for leading in-store and community-based leathercraft education. This role designs and facilitates engaging classes within the company’s established framework, while adding their own creativity to enhance the learning experience. They create inspiring product samples that highlight a range of techniques and spark ideas for crafters of all skill levels. The instructor also supports outreach efforts to connect with local makers, events, and subcultures—helping more people discover the joy of leathercrafting and contributing to the store’s growth. This role also assists customers with techniques, tools, and project guidance. 

Workshop Instructors should have a broad skill set in crafting—stitching, cutting, assembly, and patterning—along with the heart of a teacher, the drive of a mentor, and the mindset of a salesperson. In addition to leading classes, the Leathercraft Instructor supports and develops the skills of sales associates and serves as a true craft ambassador for both the Flagship location and Tandy Leather as a whole. 

This role partners closely with the Store Director and sales team to create an engaging environment where every customer enjoys a great leathercrafting experience. They scale workshops to meet the needs of crafters at all levels and help promote Tandy Leather products through education and inspiration. The instructor designs eye-catching product samples for in-store and online display to inspire customers and highlight techniques taught in class. 

They stay current with trends, tools, materials, integrating innovative ideas into workshops and displays—and assist customers with product selection, project ideas, and hands-on demonstrations when appropriate. 

JOB TITLE 

Leathercraft Instructor 

REPORTS TO 

Store Director 

LOCATION-  

Fort Worth, TX Store #190 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Teaching & Curriculum Development 

• Design, develop, and lead engaging leathercraft classes for all skill levels, aligned with store products, customer needs, and seasonal trends.
• Customize curriculum to include a variety of techniques such as stitching, cutting, assembly, and patterning.
• Foster a welcoming, encouraging environment for students of all ages and abilities.
• Evaluate class effectiveness through feedback and adapt teaching methods as needed to improve the learning experience.

Product & Store Support 

• Create eye-catching product samples for in-store and online display, highlighting techniques and finished pieces that inspire creativity across all skill levels.
• Stay up to date on emerging craft trends, tools, and materials, incorporating innovative ideas into workshops and displays.
• Assist customers with product selection, project ideas, and hands-on demonstrations to support their leathercraft journey.

Community Engagement & Sales 

• Plan and participate in community events, pop-up workshops, and craft fairs to promote the store and build local awareness.
• Encourage class participants and community members to explore store products, tools, and continued learning opportunities.
• Track class registrations, attendance, and feedback to support growth, repeat visits, and overall store performance.
• Partner with the Store Director and sales team to cultivate a store culture centered around education, creativity, and great customer experiences.

Key Skills & Attributes 

• Warm, patient, and enthusiastic teaching style with a passion for sharing skills and empowering others.
• Effective communication and presentation skills; comfortable engaging small and large groups
• Collaborative and supportive; able to coach sales associates and help develop their product and craft knowledge.
• Naturally, sales-minded—able to connect products, tools, and services to the customer learning experience.
• Solid foundation in a range of leathercraft techniques, especially stitching, cutting, assembly, and patterning.
• Initiative-taking, organized, and dependable, with strong time management and follow-through.
• Friendly, approachable, and customer-focused

Qualifications 

• Proficiency in leathercraft (basic through advanced techniques)
• Experience teaching, mentoring, or leading workshops.
• Comfortable speaking and demonstrating in front of groups.
• Knowledge of leather types, tools, and hardware
• Passion for crafting and building community through creativity.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 2+ years of teaching experience (formal or informal) in arts, crafts, or DIY projects.
• Retail or sales experience strongly preferred.
• Experience creating lesson plans and leading hands-on workshops.
• Familiarity with a broad range of craft tools, machines, and techniques.
• Previous involvement in community events or outreach programs.

Physical Demands 

• Constant moving & standing for at least two consecutive hours.
• Lifting to 50lbs.
• Stooping, kneeling, and crouching
• Climbing ladders
• Reaching for items above eye level
• Involves close vision and color vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
• Some travel required. Travel context: Local stores, HQ, offsite outreach and corporate events

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

Our Company is committed to equal employment opportunity in all aspects of employment. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical and/or mental disability, age, creed, arrest records, genetic predisposition or carrier status, and/or participation in lawful activities outside the workplace. 

ABOUT TANDY 

Tandy Leather Factory, Inc., (http://www.tandyleather.com), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is a specialty retailer of a broad product line, including leather and leatherworking tools buckles and adornments, leather dyes and finishes, saddle and tack hardware, and do-it-yourself kits. Tandy Leather distributes its products through its 100+ North American stores in 40 US states and 6 Canadian provinces, and one international store located in Spain. Its common stock trades on the Nasdaq with the symbol "TLF".  

Tandy Leather is an equal opportunity employer, and we participate in E-Verify.