Ive read a few threads and posts about people who want to start making kydex. They say they are afraid or not sure where to start. So I just thought i would post my setup. I am by no means a master. I started making my own kydex because i didnt like most of the sheaths that came with my knives. And i do not really like leather.
I used an old shelf from an tv stand and 2 foam knee garden pads from targets bargin bins. I have them hot glued to the wood and i use c clamps for the pressure. That cost me 2 bucks for the pads and i think i got the clamps for 2 bucks a piece. I went with clamps and not a hindged setup because i use the clamps in other areas.
Then all i bought was kydex of course, and the eyelet setter and anvil set and eyelets . I went with 3/16 no real reason i just wasnt sure to begin with and just went with that and it has worked fine. I paid about 8 bucks for the setter and around 4.50 per 25 black eyelets.
For those who might worry about the kydex . I have had them shift on me or not get a good enough form before it cools . Just pop the kydex back in the oven and it will take its original shape and start again. Now im not sure if there is a limit to how many times you can do this but i have done it up to 3 times before and all was good.
I just cut my pieces toss in the oven ( i use and old cookie sheet to rest it on) at 350 wait till its floppy and put it in the press with the knife. I give it a few min and take it out to inspect. if all is good i drill my holes for the eyelets , set them , and cut and shape the sheath to my liking .
I forgot to add i how i cut. I just a razor utility knife. I score the lines i want a few times and just snap it. even after i press it and set the eyelets i trace what i want then score the front and snap it off and then the back and then i sand the edges.
I know there are much better setups and ways to do this but i just wanted to show people who may be on the fence about it to just go for it . Its really quite simple. And it doesnt have to cost alot to get decent results. Good luck ..
here is a pic of the press and a sheath i just finished .
you will notice some of the eyelets are cracked. I smacked them to hard with the hammer i think . But it fits great and has great retention.
Here is a pic of the front.
I used an old shelf from an tv stand and 2 foam knee garden pads from targets bargin bins. I have them hot glued to the wood and i use c clamps for the pressure. That cost me 2 bucks for the pads and i think i got the clamps for 2 bucks a piece. I went with clamps and not a hindged setup because i use the clamps in other areas.
Then all i bought was kydex of course, and the eyelet setter and anvil set and eyelets . I went with 3/16 no real reason i just wasnt sure to begin with and just went with that and it has worked fine. I paid about 8 bucks for the setter and around 4.50 per 25 black eyelets.
For those who might worry about the kydex . I have had them shift on me or not get a good enough form before it cools . Just pop the kydex back in the oven and it will take its original shape and start again. Now im not sure if there is a limit to how many times you can do this but i have done it up to 3 times before and all was good.
I just cut my pieces toss in the oven ( i use and old cookie sheet to rest it on) at 350 wait till its floppy and put it in the press with the knife. I give it a few min and take it out to inspect. if all is good i drill my holes for the eyelets , set them , and cut and shape the sheath to my liking .
I forgot to add i how i cut. I just a razor utility knife. I score the lines i want a few times and just snap it. even after i press it and set the eyelets i trace what i want then score the front and snap it off and then the back and then i sand the edges.
I know there are much better setups and ways to do this but i just wanted to show people who may be on the fence about it to just go for it . Its really quite simple. And it doesnt have to cost alot to get decent results. Good luck ..
here is a pic of the press and a sheath i just finished .
you will notice some of the eyelets are cracked. I smacked them to hard with the hammer i think . But it fits great and has great retention.
Here is a pic of the front.
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