Awards and bursaries

An award for makers working in leather looking to take their business to the next level. The Leathersellers’ Award offers three years of business support, subsidised studio space at Cockpit Studios Deptford, and use of our well-equipped Leather Hub, generously sponsored by the Leathersellers’ Company. 

• Studio space for up to three years within the creative community at Cockpit Deptford (SE8 3DZ)

• Business support services including one-to-one coaching and business development workshops
• Selling and promotional opportunities, including two annual Cockpit Open Studios events
• Access to the Leather Hub, housing leather working equipment for shared use by Awardees. (Includes a Hot Foil Machine, Manual Leather Splitter, Leather Skiver, Clicking Press, Edge Polisher and Guillotine.)

This is a heavily subsidised space in shared studio for one year worth up to £5,600 with further support in years two (£3,400) and three (£2,200)*. The successful applicant will supplement this award in first year by paying £1,000 over 12 months.

The total sum is linked to the cost of the space and support services. Electricity costs, insurance and office service charges will be payable on top and cannot be paid from the Award. The Award space allocated is at Cockpit discretion. Please note that most studios are shared, and sizes vary.

*Contributions of £2000 and £3000 over 12 months are required from the successful Maker in years 2 and 3.

Applicants must

• Have already established a market for their work and have a track record of and commitment to working in leather
• Commit to taking up the Award and developing their practice for the full duration of the Award
• Commit to attending our Awardee Induction Day and set of ‘Make It Count’ workshops 
• Arrange and pay for their own public liability [minimum £5m] and contents insurance prior to the start date
• Must be currently living in the UK and entitled to remain in the UK for the period of the Award. Cockpit is not able to sponsor or support visa applications.

We particularly encourage applications from those who are underrepresented in craft including non-graduates, disabled, D/deaf and neurodiverse people, LGBTQIA+ people, and people from Black, Asian and Global Majority backgrounds. We welcome applicants from a range of educational backgrounds and there is no minimum formal qualification for this Award. 

To apply please complete the application form.

All awards and bursaries at Cockpit include studio space, business support and membership of a vibrant craft community, giving successful makers the space and time to develop their profile, grow their business or practice, and increase profitability. In applications, we are looking for individuals who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, creative excellence and highly developed craft skills.

The Leathersellers’ Company is one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London, ranked fifteenth in the order of precedence. It was founded by royal charter in 1444 with authority to control the sale of leather within the City. The Company no longer has this regulatory role, and instead devotes its energies to support for charity, education and the British leather trade.