Joining the Boston Leather Guild is simple: show up, participate, and add your name to the Member Directory. We believe membership should be accessible and based on involvement. If you care about leathercraft and want to be part of a creative, supportive community, you’re in—just fill out the Membership Form at the bottom of this page. We’ll confirm receipt within a day or two. In some cases, we may ask for a quick call to verify you’re a real human.
MEMBERSHIP FAQ
Does it cost anything to join?
Nope. Membership is currently free. If that ever changes (to cover things like space rentals or events), we’ll give everyone a heads-up with plenty of notice. We may occasionally solicit donations to pay for guest speakers, but there’s never a requirement to donate anything.
What does it mean to be “in the directory”?
The member directory is our internal list of active members. It’s how we stay in touch, coordinate meetings, and connect members to each other. To be in it, you just need to fill out our short signup form (bottom of this page) and come to a meeting when you can.
Do I need to be experienced?
Not at all. We welcome beginners with a real interest in leathercraft. If you’ve made something (even badly!), asked a question online, or found yourself researching leather tools at midnight you’re our kind of person.
Is there a minimum age to participate?
The minimum age to be a member of the Guild is 16. Teens who are over the age of 12 can participate in some activities when accompanied by a legal guardian (who must also be a member).
Where and when do you meet?
We meet in-person once a month, usually in the Greater Boston area. The West Public Library in Somerville is a frequent venue. Check our Meetings & Announcements page for the latest times and locations. Guests are always welcome.
What if I can’t attend regularly?
No problem. Some members attend every month; others drop in a few times a year. If you’re active and engaged—even occasionally—that counts.
What are the benefits of joining?
- A welcoming leathercraft community
- Access to monthly meetings and workshops
- Learning opportunities through demos, show-and-tell, and peer feedback
- Special promotions and discounts with trusted suppliers
- A chance to participate in future craft fairs, showcases, or collaborative projects
Can I bring a friend?
Yes, please. Bring anyone who’s interested. We just ask that people sign up as members if they plan to stick around.
What if I don’t live in the Greater Boston area?
Can you still attend the occasional meeting and actively participate? If yes, you’re an honorary Bostonian for our purposes!
Who runs the Boston Leather Guild?
The co-founders of the Guild are long-time friends and collaborators with a deep love of all-things leather. They run the Guild as ‘benevolent dictators’ which means they take turns baking cookies for members and finding meeting venues. As the Guild grows, we hope others will share in the Guild’s governance. You can read about why we founded the Guild here.
How do I join?
Fill out the membership form and show up to a meeting when you’re ready. That’s it.