Create a template out of a piece of paper or cardboard. Your template may be in the shape of a plant leaf, animal or an abstract symbol. Copy an existing shape or pattern from a book or an album on tracing paper and transfer this shape on the piece of paper or cardboard. Cut out the shape.
Obtain a piece of leather: cowhide or pigskin work best for sculpting projects. For a two-dimensional sculpture, get 2-ounce leather, which is thin and easy to work with.
Using the template you created, cut out the shape in leather using leather shears.
Skive, or cut off, a layer of the leather using a sharp knife. Through this procedure, you remove the back part of the leather.
Soak the leather in soapy water and then allow your piece of leather to partially dry. The leather becomes more malleable.
Once the leather is partially dry, you can carve various motifs or lines that add value to the sculpture. You may also add smaller pieces of leather -- wings, for example, if you choose to create a bird. If you add pieces of leather, go through Steps 1 to 4 to prepare that leather, as well.
Prepare a solution known as gesso, using one part plaster and four parts water and mix thoroughly. Use three parts liquid plaster and one part white glue and apply a thin coat of this mix on the leather. This acts as a primer. Allow the piece to dry completely.
Paint the leather using acrylic paints.