Smaller Knife, Thinner Sheath Leather?

[redsquid2]

That's a start and on a style that can be a problem to figure out. Quint has some good solutions that you can try with a little more experience under your belt. The major problem with the stitching comes from the leather. I'd be willing to bet it's from the belly portion of the hide. The fibers in the belly sections have been stretched through the natural processes of being a cow. It will never have the firmness to retain the shape you want. With better cuts, your stitches will seat neatly, edges won't roll and it won't have the uneven surface. This ain't criticism, just thoughts for you (and others) to build on. Take a look at the photo and you'll see another way to do a cross carry.
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Thanks for the feedback, Mr. Lowe. I think the uneven texture came from the dying it, then the wet-forming it. I did the dying with blackberries, rubbing them and squishing them into the leather as much as possible, so the seeds probably scratched it. I did the wet forming for about 45 min. to an hour, with my fingertips, knuckles, and spring-loaded clamps. I think it was good leather, because I got it from Midwest/USA Knifemakers. However, I distressed it a lot.

As far as the stitches seating neatly, I will study your pictures to see exactly what you mean. With a quick look, I could see that your knives and sheathes are works of art. Thank you for the pointers.

Andy/squid

 

[Rick Lowe]

Andy I really respect what you've done working with natural dyes, etc. Get one of the videos I mentioned and you'll be way ahead of the game soon. Now, I don't want anybody at Midwest Knife Supply mad at me 'cause I buy most of my knife material from them, but remember that they are knife guys and maybe not the best judge of leather. Call Roger at RJF Leather.607-742-8969, order one double shoulder in 7/8oz. and you'll have all the top quality leather you'll need for some time.

 

[mete]

Redsquid - that M.Snody quote - as a kid I had an industrial nurse describe just that .Very gruesome especially for a kid.

For an extreme my little 1/4 scale kukri has a very thin leather sheath but with a liner of 28 gage stainless steel !! But liners are a good idea.I've made sheaths of cordura nylon and used thin polyethelene for liners .