Early Announcement: Apprenticeship Program

by Kay Rye February 19, 2025 2 min read

SOLE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

Early Announcement: Apprenticeship Program

We’re excited to give you an early introduction to our upcoming Apprenticeship Program! Our goal is to provide hands-on training in leatherwork, helping aspiring artisans develop their skills.

Before we can launch, we need to raise funds to support the program—covering materials, equipment, and instruction. We’ll be sharing more details soon, including how you can get involved, support our efforts, or apply for the program.

Stay tuned for updates, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or want to be among the first to hear about our progress!

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

S.O.L.E. Apprenticeship Program – An Internship Opportunity 
Eligibility - Application is open to students aged 13-18
Location - Sole Survivor Leather, 7358 Manchester, Maplewood, MO 63143
 
Annie Rye, the lead designer, artist, and maker at Sole Survivor Leather, has nearly 20 years of experience in design and leatherwork and is seeking an assistant. In this role, you will support Annie with various tasks related to preparing and crafting leather goods. Additionally, you may occasionallyassist at art fairs and events. Ifyou’re eager to develop new skills and gain hands-on experience in leatherwork, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! 

What You'll Learn:  During this hands-on internship, you’ll gain foundational skills in leatherwork. 

  • Tool & Machine Basics

    • Become familiar with basic tools, machines, and their functions. 

  • Cutting Leather 

    •  Learn the proper techniques for cutting leather.  

  • Hand Sewing 

    • Attaching buttons, tassels, or straps to bags. 

  • Hardware Installation 

    •  Adding buckles, snaps, buttons, and other hardware to products. 

  • Machine SewingAssisting with simple sewing tasks such as:

    • Sewing purse straps 

    • Sewing pockets 

    • Stitching straight edges on items 

  • Assisting at Art Fairs - in addition to hands-on leatherwork, you may be asked to  help at art fairs with tasks like: 

    • Engaging with customers 

    • Assisting shoppers in finding products 

    • Helping with checkout and bagging items 

    • Watching the booth while Annie takes a break


    Important Details to Know: 

    • This is an unpaid position.  

      • You will be volunteering as an assistant  

      • Interns will be given priority consideration if a permanent workshop assistant position opens in the future. 

    • This is not a DESIGN apprenticeship 
      • However, you will gain valuable, hands-on skills to build a strong foundation for your own work in the future. 

    • Applicants must be between 13 and 18 years old. 

      • Priority given to MRH students (we like to shop local!) 

    • Internship Duration 

      • Duration will range from 12 weeks up to 6 months 


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