The Bradford Vintage Leather Briefcase PDF Pattern
DIGITAL DOWNLOAD – PDF PATTERN ONLY – NOT A FINISHED BAG
Create your own timeless leather briefcase with The Bradford, a vintage-inspired leathercraft pattern that combines classic heritage style with practical everyday functionality.
Featuring a structured, upright silhouette, contrasting leather details, and traditional brass-tone hardware, The Bradford blends the elegance of a classic briefcase with the distinctive character of a vintage leather satchel.
The design features a spacious main compartment with a zipper closure, a large front pocket accented with two traditional buckle straps, sturdy rounded leather handles, and an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap. A central tuck lock adds a classic finishing touch.
Perfect for leathercraft enthusiasts who appreciate traditional craftsmanship, thoughtful details, and timeless leather bag designs.
DESIGN FEATURES
- Classic vintage briefcase silhouette with a structured, upright design
- Spacious main compartment with zipper closure
- Large front pocket with two traditional buckle straps
- Central tuck lock closure
- Two sturdy rounded leather handles
- Adjustable and detachable leather shoulder strap
- Contrasting leather details for a distinctive two-tone finish
- Traditional hand-stitched leather construction
FINISHED BAG DIMENSIONS
- Height: 13" (33 cm)
- Width: 11.4" (29 cm)
- Depth: 5.5" (14 cm)
FRONT POCKET DIMENSIONS
- Height: 8.7" (22 cm)
- Width: 10" (25.5 cm)
- Depth: 1.6" (4 cm)
MATERIALS REQUIRED
- Main body: 5.5 oz (approximately 2.2 mm) stiff leather, or suitably lined/reinforced leather – approximately 9 sq. ft. (0.8 m²)
- Contrast leather: 5.5 oz (approximately 2 mm) leather
- Shoulder strap: 10 oz (4 mm) leather
- 1 mm waxed thread
- Leather edge dye
- Leather glue
Leather quantities are approximate and may vary depending on your cutting layout and the leather used.
HARDWARE REQUIRED
- 1 zipper – at least 9.5" (24 cm) long
- 1 tuck lock – approximately 1.6" (4 cm) wide
- 2 Sam Browne studs
- 2 buckles – 3/4" (20 mm)
- 2 D-rings – 3/4" (20 mm)
- 2 swivel hooks – 1" (25 mm)
- 1 buckle – 1" (25 mm)
TOOLS REQUIRED
- Leather cutter or sharp utility knife
- Hand-stitching needles
- 1/16" (1.5 mm) hole punch
- Cutting mat
- Mallet
ABOUT THE DESIGN
The Bradford combines the professional character of a traditional leather briefcase with the distinctive detailing of a vintage satchel. Its structured shape, generous front pocket, and contrasting leather accents make it an eye-catching addition to any handmade leather collection.
Choose classic brown leather for a timeless heritage look, or experiment with different leather colors and finishes to create your own unique version.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
1. Is this a finished leather bag or a digital pattern?
This listing is for a digital PDF leathercraft pattern, not a finished leather bag. No physical product will be shipped. The photographs show a completed example of The Bradford briefcase.
2. What are the finished dimensions of the bag?
The finished briefcase measures approximately 13" (33 cm) high, 11.4" (29 cm) wide, and 5.5" (14 cm) deep. The front pocket measures 8.7" x 10" x 1.6" (22 x 25.5 x 4 cm).
3. Is this leather pattern suitable for beginners?
The Bradford includes structured construction, hand stitching, rounded handles, a zipper, a front pocket, and several hardware components. Previous leathercraft experience and familiarity with basic leatherworking techniques are recommended.
4. What type of leather should I use?
We recommend stiff 5.5 oz (approximately 2.2 mm) leather for the main body, or suitably reinforced leather to maintain the bag's structured shape. The design also uses contrasting 2 mm leather and thicker 4 mm leather for the shoulder strap.
5. How much leather do I need?
Approximately 9 sq. ft. (0.8 m²) of leather is recommended for the main body. Additional leather is needed for contrasting details and the shoulder strap. Actual consumption may vary depending on your cutting layout.
6. Is this pattern designed for hand stitching?
The bag is designed for traditional hand-stitched leather construction, using waxed thread, leatherworking needles, and punched stitching holes.
7. What hardware is required?
You will need a zipper, tuck lock, Sam Browne studs, buckles, D-rings, and swivel hooks. The complete hardware list and recommended sizes are provided above.
8. Can the finished briefcase carry a laptop?
The main compartment may accommodate a small laptop or tablet, depending on its dimensions. However, the bag does not include a dedicated padded laptop compartment. Please check the finished bag measurements and use additional protection for electronic devices.
9. Are leather, tools, and hardware included?
No. This is a digital pattern only. All leather, thread, hardware, tools, and other materials must be purchased separately.
10. Can I customize the colors and leather finishes?
Absolutely! The Bradford can be made using different leather colors and finishes. You can recreate the classic two-tone vintage look shown in the photographs or experiment with your own combinations.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
THIS IS A DIGITAL PRODUCT – NOT A PHYSICAL BAG.
You are purchasing a PDF leathercraft pattern to make your own Bradford briefcase. The finished leather bag shown in the photographs is for reference only.
Leather, hardware, and tools are not included.
The final appearance of your bag may vary depending on your leather selection, materials, and craftsmanship.
Bring The Bradford to life and create a timeless leather briefcase with your own hands!
