Cavscout pretty much stole my advice. Get some good patterns and just jump in. I've done some leather working and alot of good leatherworking comes from nothing more then ruining alot of leather. So buy some cheap leather, odd sizes..off color..misscured stuff and just practice. In no time at all you will gain enough confidence to buy some good stuff and make a work of art. I love working with leather...i should start again. Be good for my blood pressure i'm sure.