Tool Intricate Chap Tops with Ty Skiver

In this detailed course, western leather artist Ty Skiver walks you through the full process of designing and tooling a showstopping chap top. Known for his intricate floral and filigree work, Ty shares the tools, techniques, and pro tips behind his signature style—so you can craft chap tops that turn heads in the arena or the shop.

From pattern sketching to the final swivel cuts, you’ll see every step in Ty’s process up close. Whether you’re adding flair to your own gear or creating custom work for clients, this course will help you sharpen your eye, expand your tooling skills, and create beautifully detailed leatherwork with confidence.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to sketch and plan your chap top design
• Creating and using a pattern tap-off
• Tooling techniques for floral and filigree work
• Tips for beveling, shading, and adding dimensional detail
• How Ty layers tools like veiners, shaders, and figure carving tools for stunning effects

With over 20 lessons and expert instruction, this is a powerful course for intermediate and advanced leatherworkers ready to push their creative edge.

Every course includes everything you need to succeed:

• Downloadable yoke pattern and supply list
• Step-by-step video lessons
• Skills inventory to track your growth
• Monthly live Q&A access and a private community of artisans

Instructor: Ty Skiver
Ty is the founder of Skiver Bootmakers and a master leather artist with more than 30 years of experience. His tooling has been featured in Western Horseman magazine and is known for blending western tradition with intricate storytelling through leather.