Resources for a noob leatherworker?

S

StupidDogCoffee

Joined
Dec 29, 2011
Messages
7
I am thinking about making a couple of knife scabbards, maybe even some handgun holsters if I can get the hang of it. I have never worked with leather before, so I was wondering if some of the more experienced fellas around here could point me in the right direction.

Are there any good instructional websites out there for leatherworking and crafting scabbards?

What tools and supplies will I need to get started?

What are your recommended sources for tools, materials and supplies?

Thanks!
 
would help if you put up at least a region in your profile for location - may be easier for a "local" leatherworker to help you out.
 
cool - hopefully some folks more local to you will post.
I started with a handful of tools from Tandy - and their 9-10 oz double shoulders are pretty decent for sheaths & holsters.
The Al Stohlman books are pretty decent, but the first place I'd go is the library reference section.
generally when making a pattern for a pouch sheath or simple holster, I use a cut up paper grocery sack to rough out my pattern.
 
I suggest a visit to your Tandy Leather store:
13221 NE Whitaker Way
Portland, 97230
503-255-8818

You're fortunate to have that resource in your stomping grounds.
 
rayban said:
I suggest a visit to your Tandy Leather store:
13221 NE Whitaker Way
Portland, 97230
503-255-8818

You're fortunate to have that resource in your stomping grounds.
Click to expand...

I have been to that store and the people that work there seem nice enough. They offer classes as well. Some free but most are not.
 
If I were you, I'd definitely hit those guys up at your local shops. Nothing will beat getting your hands on some leather and just experimenting with a little guidance. The Stohlman books are a decent reference if you are starting. If you have any older relatives, you'd be surprised what will work its way out of the woodwork once folks know that you work with leather. I had a bunch of swivel knives, punches, bevelers, etc given to me by family that just had them at home when they had some leather project back in the day.

Tandy or any other leather shop should offer a starter kit that will give you the basic tools (XActo knife, edge beveler, stitch wheel, awl, thread, wax, grooving tool) at a reasonable price.
 
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