Want to Try out Some Leather Works

colu41

colu41

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Dec 24, 2014
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I've never really worked with leather other than a few IWB Glock Holsters in which I just used chicago screws. But I'm really interested in making some leather sheaths for my knives instead the normal kydex. Now I know what type of leather and where I can get it, but is there any particulars on what thread to use when doing the stitching?

Also, if there were ONE leather working tool to have, what would it be?

I'm just going to start out with a few simple "fold over" sheaths for now. Then maybe if I like it I'll go into the more technical stuff. I went through the stickies a little bit, and got a quick idea from it but, all I need is a few more details before I go further.

Thanks!
 
The ONE leather tool would probably be a knife. A utility knife with new blades will work at first.

You'll need a way to stitch the leather together. So needles and thread are a must.

I highly suggest that you buy the two low cost books by Al Stohlman: "The Art of Hand Sewing Leather" and "Craftool Tech-Tips". They can be found at any Tandy Leather location.

You'll want veg-tanned leather, probably in the 8-oz. (1/8") thickness.

That's a start.

Good luck,

Mike L.
 
"one" leather tool? :p Nope, aint one leather tool to have. Its a sickness that compels one to get more and more.... :D

Gotta feed that addiction. I am always looking for more, and more and more..
 
Cutting mat! You should be able to grab one of those cheap green ones for a few dollars until you build up to a nicer one ;)
 
For hand stitching thread, I would highly recommend the Ritza, Tiger Thread. You can get it from multiple sellers on Ebay which is where I get mine.

I don't know that I could pick just 1 tool. The first couple that come to mind are the edger that Dave already mentioned and the other is a stitch groover. Both items greatly improved my work when I added them to my toolbox.

Chris
 
If you go to the tutorial section and read the tutorial "The Frugal Leather Craftsman: Basic Tools
you will be able to build a sheath and may already have many of the tools it takes to do it.
John S.
 
darkmatter35 said:
If you go to the tutorial section and read the tutorial "The Frugal Leather Craftsman: Basic Tools
you will be able to build a sheath and may already have many of the tools it takes to do it.
John S.
Click to expand...
Thank you, just made my week. Better yet my month. :D
 
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