Starting to play with leather....

[Tripton]

At least, I plan to this winter.

I dont plan on becoming as skilled as many of the great makers here at BFC. I just want a new hobby for when the weather is frightening this winter.

I have looked over a few of the excellent tutorials here, and while it looks like a lot of work, it seems that if I take my time and follow the steps, I might be able to make a sheath or two.


I wonder though,

What is the best thickness of leather for knife sheaths? Where can I get some?

I have a drill press and table space. What do I need for hand tools to get started?


Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

 

[rayban]

I believe 8oz. (1/8" thick) veg. tan leather is best all-around sheath making leather.
Have a Tandy store nearby?
Look for a book by Al Stohlman called "The Art of Making Cases"...it's a very well illustrated "how to" book, and shows the necessary tools and how to use them.
Hand Sewing Leather is another "must have" by him.....you can find these on the bay as well.
Good luck...don't ever hesitate to ask questions here.

 

[Bigfattyt]

Tandy also sells kits with tools and instruction books as well.

I use the 10 ounce leather (some times heavier).

When you get a thick welt and leather it becomes a beast to hand punch.

I have been told by at least one leather bender pro to just get a dremmel drill press set up and save my self some hassle.

 

[SBranson]

Somewhere in this forum someone posted a long list of tools for people starting out. I'll look around and see if I can find it.

Look at the two stickies that show the process as you can glean what's necessary from those as well.

And Chuck Burrow's video is a great introduction to sheathmaking. Paul Long's new dvd's are fantastic too but in my opinion, they are best for someone familiar with leatherworking.