Matt Wanner On Tour! Belt Workshop (Pendleton, OR)

Matt Wanner Belt Workshop Tour Dates & Location Friday & Saturday, September 4–5, 2026 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Maker's Leather Supply (Inside Burns Saddlery), 221 S Main Street, Pendleton, OR Why You'll Love Matt's Belt Workshop This is not a sit-back-and-watch kind of class. This is a hands-on, build-it-with-Matt Wanner workshop where students will work through a floral belt design, create a tap-off, build a lined and stitched belt, and (if time allows) finger carve the back liner for an added level of detail and finish. You’ll build your belt step by step alongside Matt Wanner in a small-group setting designed for real instruction, real questions, and real progress. We limit each class to just 12 students, so every attendee gets the guidance, feedback, and support they need throughout the weekend. Over two full days, you’ll work with premium materials and learn the techniques that go into creating a professional-quality belt built for everyday use. By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with more than a finished belt, you’ll leave with a deeper skillset, stronger confidence, and a better understanding of how to build belts that look sharp, wear well, and sell. And that last part matters. Belts are one of the smartest products you can add to your lineup whether you’re building a side hustle, adding to your craft show table, or producing work in a full-time shop. They’re useful, giftable, customizable, and always in demand. What You'll Learn Build a Belt from Start to Finish Matt will guide you through every step of the process, from measuring and layout to assembly and finishing. Floral Design, Tap-Offs & Tooling Techniques This workshop goes beyond simple assembly. Students will work through floral belt design, create a tap-off, and learn decorative techniques that bring personality and craftsmanship into the build. Professional Techniques Made Simple Learn the methods used by working craftsmen while avoiding the common mistakes that frustrate beginners. Attention to the Details You'll learn proper sizing, tooling, edge finishing, hardware installation, and the small details that elevate a project from homemade to professional. Assembly Confidence That Carries Forward Whether you’re new to belt making or ready to sharpen your process, this class is designed to help you work with more confidence, clarity, and purpose on future builds. What You'll Leave With A completed heirloom-quality leather belt Practical leatherworking skills you can use on future projects Greater confidence in your craftsmanship A printed pattern for future builds Lifetime access to Matt's Learn with Illume course ($37 value) What to Bring Your leather kit, hardware, patterns, and instruction are included. Just bring a few of your favorite shop tools: Assortment of your favorite carving tools Mallet or maul Rock (we will have a few available) Swivel knife Wing dividers Spray bottle Stylus Notebook We will have some tools available to share if needed. Kit Includes Belt strip Liner strip Oil Antique Pattern Ready to Build Something You'll Be Proud Of? Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or spend a weekend creating a quality leather project, this workshop offers a rewarding hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment. Meet Your Instructor Matt Wanner brings over 15 years of leathercraft experience and has built more than 100 saddles. He also serves as President of Production for Burns 1876, bringing a rare blend of craftsmanship, efficiency, and teaching ability to the classroom. Lunch is included both days. Class Cancellation Policy When you sign up for a class, we're immediately reserving your seat, ordering materials, and making commitments with our instructors and venues. Because of this, we have the following cancellation policy: Cancel 6+ weeks before class: Receive a full refund. Cancel 4–6 weeks before class: Receive a 50% refund. Cancel less than 4 weeks before class: No refunds. If you can't make it, you're welcome to transfer your spot to someone else with advance notice. Thank you for understanding and helping us continue to bring amazing instructors and classes to communities across the country.