At first, it appears to be just a leather rectangle, but the more you consider the possibilities, the more useful this is.

Hultafors Trekker’s Little Helper is a versatile and useful item for anyone who enjoys spending time in the woods or in a workshop. This 320 x 220mm piece of thick, treated hide provides perfect protection for your body when working with knife or axe close to you. It has holes at the corners and a leather thonging (provided) for keeping it in place on your thigh, or round your neck for more intricate work such as spoon carving. It is indispensable whether wood carving or flint knapping, protecting you from the tools you use, sharp edges, or the discomfort of some materials in certain positions. Take it outdoors, and the impregnated leather makes for a great seat or kneeling pad.

Folded it will catch wood shavings needed as kindling and will protect sparks from wind and rain while starting a fire before moving the fire to the fireplace. 

Feeling nice and supple in the hands, it's a [pleasure to use, and is far more than just any old scrap of leather.