Leatherwork and the Trail to Eagle
Leatherwork is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Leatherwork Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 3 main requirements for Leatherwork. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the hazards you are most likely to encounter while using leatherwork tools and materials.
- b.Discuss the origin and history of leatherworking.
- 2
Make ONE leather project.
- 3
Make a second leather project, different from the first.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Leatherwork Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Leatherwork, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Leatherwork is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 2 weeks for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 5 Leatherwork requirements for you.
Leatherwork Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Leatherwork merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Leatherwork is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Leatherwork merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Leatherwork in about 2 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Leatherwork merit badge?
Leatherwork is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Leatherwork can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Leatherwork merit badge have?
Leatherwork has 3 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 5 items in total.
