Leather Studio Assistant - Prototyping & Pattern Making

University of the Arts London; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

University of the Arts London is seeking a Workshop & Studio Assistant for its Bethnal Green shoemaking and bagmaking studio. The role combines workshop support, practical making and product development, with opportunities to prototype new shoe and bag projects and create digital patterns.

You will split time between supporting workshops and developing projects, with responsibilities from setting up studios to assisting students and tutors, and preparing materials. Some weekend work is required.

Qualifications

• Strong practical making background essential.
• Experience in leather craft or footwear/shoemaking.
• Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Able to prototype and develop patterns.

Responsibilities

• Prepare the studio, tools and materials for upcoming workshops.
• Prepare leather, components and workshop kits.
• Support tutors and students during shoemaking, bagmaking and leather craft workshops.
• Assist students with practical making techniques.
• Help prototype and develop new shoes, bags and leather craft projects.
• Create and adapt digital patterns using Adobe Illustrator and InDesign.
• Test patterns and make samples as part of development.
• Prepare patterns, templates and teaching materials for workshops.
• Keep tools, materials and stock organised.
• Reset and prepare the studio between workshops.

Skills

Leather craft

Footwear or shoemaking

Bagmaking or accessories

Sewing and construction

Pattern cutting or pattern development

Another relevant hands-on craft

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe InDesign

Education

Degree in Footwear Design, Bag & Accessories Design, Leather Craft

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe InDesign

Job description

University of the Arts London is seeking a Workshop & Studio Assistant for its Bethnal Green shoemaking and bagmaking studio. The role combines workshop support, practical making and product development, with opportunities to prototype new shoe and bag projects and create digital patterns.

You will split time between supporting workshops and developing projects, with responsibilities from setting up studios to assisting students and tutors, and preparing materials. Some weekend work is required.