My first sheath oh sh** now what do I do?

[Big Duke Six]

Gentlemen
New to the site, but have been into knives for a good 20 years. Anyhow, I've got a new bowie coming 8-1/2"blade 13-1/2" overall made from D-2 and I need to make a sheath for it. I have seen some of the most beautiful leather sheaths on this forum and was hoping I could get some help and/or advise on my project. I am wanting to make a traditional mountain man, primitive type sheath with some bone tube and a few beads, rugged but refined if that makes any sense? I done some research here and other places and I believe I have all the required leather and equipment but I'm sure I miss stuff compared to you guys. One big question, is how does the leather get its structure and stiffness for such a big knife. Again, gentlemen any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Wolf

 

[hushnel]

Generally by using heavier leather, 10-12oz would be more than thick enough for a 13" knife.

 

[mikeymoto]

If you're going for mountain man you could try making a rawhide sheath. That would be plenty sturdy.