Starting out with Kydex.

[OpKey]

So, I've been really interested in trying out making my own kydex products. I've had some great ideas, and I've went back and forth with the idea of starting out on trying to make my own. I just never can make up my mind. Most of the time, because I didn't know exactly all that I needed to start. Well, that's what this thread is finally for.

I want to start making simple knife sheaths, possibly some gun holsters, etc at first. Or whatever else I can just try to learn on. What are all the tools and equipment I will need to start out on? I already have the old toaster oven laying around, so that's taken care of. I just need to know all the basics I need to start with. I'm not trying to spend a fortune on this, because I would hate to spend a whole lot of money and then just end up not liking to do it. Basically, I just need a list of the tools needed. Also, it would help if I could know the materials needed. I know there's kydex, kydex foam for the press, rivets, possibly chicago screws, and please help me if it seems like I'm missing anything on the materials. I spent hours looking on knifekits.com and I even got one of their catalogs sent to me and was dumbfounded at all the kydex tools they had. So, now I'm here.

I guess I'm pretty much just asking to be schooled on starting my own kydex work. Thanks ahead of time, guys.

 

[Balicholik]

All you need to start is the Kydex a press 1/4 eyelets a 1/4 drill bit and the eyelet setter...if you decide that you like it and want to continue then you can get the eyelet dies and the arbor press(they look a lot better than hand set).I assume you already have a drill or drill press and drill bits..i usually avoid using the drill press i have made a handle with a drill bit in it and make the holes for the eyelets manually....i also use to make the initial hole a primer pocket deburer i think it`s called(from my reloading stuff).
Anyway before you spend big, look around what you already have and do a lot of googling on how to and youtubing helps too Good luck

 

[Cobec]

Some form of a press is a must, even if its just two pieces of wood and some foam. I use a Dremel tool for cutting and and sanding my sheaths. A drill is better for the holes but I am currently just using a drill bit on my Dremel tool. I started off with a hand setter for the rivets but wasn't pleased with the results so I picked up an arbor press and the dies. If your looking for supplies check out www.knifekits.com that's where I buy all my materials. Rivets and Kydex is all you need in terms of raw materials.