Leatherworking's topics - tribe.net

Deerskin flogger Help?

The Captain — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:36:40 GMT

Hey people,

I'm looking to purchase a deerskin hide so I can make a flogger. I wish to know the following:

Is it better to just buy a flogger and not make it? Are floggers that hard to make?

I want a 20" fringe..How much leather do I need for that?

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

hey (intoduction)

stefan — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:43:14 GMT

hey there i just thought id introduce myself
im stefan im 20 years of age and live in Lincoln in the uk

im just starting out in leather work im an avid larp fan and intend on making myself some armoure out of recycled materials
(ive got a couple of leather jackets and an old sofa to abuse)

i will eventually be buying better quality leather but the way i see it the recycled gear is cheaper to make mistakes with while im just starting out.

my first project will be a set of leather bracers using this guide( http://www.geocities.com/craiggoetz/leather/bracer_tutorial.htm ) out of 2mm thick leather jacket

i orderd my tools yesterday and they should be hear friday i have ordered

EYELET PLIERS + 100 EYELETS L
5mtrs - 2mm Leather Cord / Thong
LEATHER HAND SEWING NEEDLES
9 Pc HOLLOW PUNCH SET
and i have a few good blades from my woodworking (i carve wood)

my main question is really do you guys have any advice? and have i ordered the right tools for what i need? and can anyone point me to any other guides for other pieces of Armour?

thanks
stefan

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Bota Bottle Liners

JorvikVikti — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 19:07:35 GMT

Does anyone know of a supplier/source for liners to create Bota Bottles?

Thanks, in advance.

Jorvik

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

harden leather for fireplace bellows

chris — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:50:34 GMT

I am trying to figure out how to harden leather for the accordian section of antique fireplace bellows. Traditionally the leather in this section is hardened or dried to the point, that when you flick you finger on an edge it sound and feels like paper. Very tight feel to it like a drum. I am new to leatherworking for man who used to do this has recently died and I have been ask to try to figure out to do this. i have boiled the leather for 10 mins. but it did not harden enough. Can any one give me any suggestions how to get the desired results? It would be greatly appreciated. thank you, chris

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

elizabethan sword frog patterns?

brookswift — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 04:15:50 GMT

Hey, does anyone know of patterns for an Elizabethan sword frog? I'm not looking for a rapier frog, but rather something more suitable to a sidesword or longsword. I haven't made one before, so a starter pattern to evolve from would be quite helpful.

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

Shoes and Boots

Achbar — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:06:08 GMT

Who sews these in this tribe? What advice would you give me?

posted in Leatherworking - 18 replies

glue!

pooka — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 05:08:37 GMT

I am making a leather brooch for my Mother in Law for x-mas... so I need advice, quick! I've glued the leather together with leatherweld, but I need to glue a metal pin on the back of the ornament. It's a 3d flower, lots of petals, so it's quite a heavy piece. What should I use to adhere metal to the leather? Crazy glue, or what? I didn't think that the leatherweld would be a tight enough bond between the two materials. Thanks!

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

a Leather Mask Making Journey

Hjeron — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:12:43 GMT

MythMaker www.mythmaker.ca presents
a Leather Mask Making Journey
3 days of journeying, leatherworking and learning the ancient arts of the Mask.
Participants will learn to make there own Leather mask or headdress!!

The Mask is an ancient symbol of transcendence and power. A spirit calling up secrets from within.
The Mask has had a significant role throughout human civilization as a portal into the great mysteries of life and consciousness.
It was used by the great Shamanic traditions of countless cultures as a instrument for obtaining wisdom, gaining protection, seeking guidance, celebrating rites of passage, and for healing.
The mask is a way of reconnecting magic with life.
Hjeron O'Sidhe of MythMaker
will be guiding a group to journey with this ancient and sought after art. Teachers are rare for the art of leather maskmaking, it is a beautiful, lucrative and easy art, once the techniques are learned making leather masks, head dresses, gauntlets and sculpture are easy and sell for a good price. Hjeron has been blessed to have found those who will teach and in turn he shares what he has learned and discovered!

you create a plaster mold of your head to make countless masks from & your own leather mask!!

the San Francisco price is $333 or $250 if you bring a friend
Workshop dates are the 6th, 8th and 9th of March

contact Hjeron(at)mythmaker.ca or 541-292-2188

feel free to send this invite out to your friends

Also Contact me if you think this is something your community would be interested in!!!

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Hardening a holster

William — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 01:51:22 GMT

Greetings all,
I'm new to this forum thing ,so please bare with me. I looked at some postings about how to harden leather and read the different comments on using wax and hot water. I have a holster I made for pocket carrying a small automatic. I suspect, because I don't know much about leather working, I used a leather that was too thin. The thickness is 5/64 and I made the holster by wetting the leather and molding it around my pistol which I had wrapped in plastic wrap. I did the hand stiching and for me it looks OK. The problem I have is that after a week or so in my pocket the leather is getting soft. My question is, can I wet the holster and then do the Hot Water trick after the holster complete or will it do some sort of wild thing and not be usable? It looked like, from the postings I saw, the leather that was discussed was hardened before it was used. If I read the comments right, I may have to put the pistol back in the holster after it comes out of the hot water to make certain it will not shrink too much. Am I looking at something that is possible or should I go a different route? All comments will be appreciated.

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Make a REALLY strong belt?

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 23:51:48 GMT

I've learned something, now that I have my fancy-pants homemade belt holster:

It really does a good job of pulling down my fancy-pants on that side. It also causes even my most stout belt to stretch and sag over time.

Now I know why people talk about a proper belt being just as important as the holster. It's just no good to draw from a holster on a sagging belt. The belt lifts as you draw, bungling up your smoothness of motion, and the sagging is a dead-giveaway, plus it's uncomfortable all day long.

I need to make a REALLY sturdy belt. And by that I mean, it's gotta hold it's shape for years, never stretching or sagging. It's gotta be stiff and solid.

It also has to be small enough to fit through my pant loops. About 1.25 or 1.5 inches width is what I need.

How would you go about, making the strongest leather belt you can make?

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Bleaching leather

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 23:59:46 GMT

I asked this before, but maybe the wrong way.

I've got an old motorcycle jacket. black. Really thick, good quality leather.

I don't want a black jacket, I want a brown jacket. I don't even really care what kind of brown, or how dark of a brown. I don't care if it looks beat up and blotchy with some black still visible in the seams. If it looks old and abused, so much the better.

Is there a way of leaching the black out of the leather? A chemical process? Household bleach? can I sand the finish off? I don't care if I end up with a 'rough-out' or messed up suede look. In fact I just might like it, I would even prefer it to a shiny finish.

I imagine bleaching of any kind will rob the leather of all it's oils and suppleness. I also imagine with enough care i could re-saturate it with new oils after re-dyeing it brown, right?

So essentially, what I'm asking is, can it be done at all? leach or bleach a good portion of the black out? enough to take a little brown dye and end up with some shade of darkish brownish? and how?

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

My first completed project: Homemade Holster

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 20:39:41 GMT

http://leatherworking.tribe.net/photos/ab82bd57-4f6f-47a7-abda-63b89b61631a

This is pretty much my first leatherworking project ever. I posted a loooong time ago asking for advice about making a holster, here's the finished product. A couple of the stitch lines are buggered up, that was when I tried to use a leather awl, before I broke all four needles in about ten minutes and learned the hard way that pre-punching holes with a nail is really the only right way to go about it.

This holster is a custom adaptation of a Milt-Sparks holster that is only made for autoloaders, so I could not get one for my revolver. Most people will tell you that it's impossible to conceal a revolver of that size in such a holster, which is why they aren't made. Well, mine conceals just fine under even a normal-fitting t-shirt. Overall, the project saved me over $100, and a six-month waiting list for ordered gunleather, and taught me a fun skill that I'm really enjoying.

Next project is already underway, a shoulder-holster, for wearing under a light jacket or winter coat.

posted in Leatherworking - 10 replies

frog and belt for a sword

chris — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 01:18:55 GMT

does anyone have a plan for a frog and belt for a sword?
or source for nice buckles...

chris

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

Leather bevels and stone settings...

EliCurrey — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 22:19:46 GMT

I just started to play with setting stones, coins, seashells and other items into leather.
is there any good resorces out there that explain a bit more about how to secure a good bevel,
Also I was wondering a few things about what types of leather glues work best for binding leather/glass, leather/stone, and leather/metal

Any help would be greatly apreciated!

Hope you all are having a excelent start to the winter season

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

www.shirespace.com

Devon — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 22:14:11 GMT

Come check out my new site www.shirespace.com (myspace meets medieval times)

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Shotgun shell holder

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 22:33:21 GMT

I have a leather shellholder for my shotgun. It secures to the rear portion of the stock and has five 'loops' for holding five shotgun shells. Over a long period of not having any shells in it, it has become a bit tight of a fit in the loops and is unreasonably difficult to get the shells in or out of the loops.

I don't want to stretch it too far and loose, as it will no longer securely retain the shotgun shells. Seems to be a pretty touchy job to me, there's a small tolerance window between 'too snug' and 'too loose' and it needs to stay at whatever degree of stretch I take it out to.

What's the best way to tackle this problem?

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

Making Eyeglasses - How best to file and finish the surface?

quattrocchi — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:50:30 GMT

I'm a jeweller and I make eyeglasses usually from silver. However I have this idea to make simple reading glasses from thick leather. Like they did back in the olden days! So I have this thick shoe-sole leather I got years ago from a shoe factory (since closed down) with a fairly hard top surface and a soft bach surface. Not sure of the terminology, can you tell I'm new to leatherworking? And I've drawn a eyeglass shape on the leather and sawn it out with a fine jewellery saw. I have also cut out the eye-holes and put reading lenses in there (in a groove).

But the outside shape of these leather eyeglasses is kind of square. So I have tried to rasp and file a curved edge. This roughs up the surface a lot. So what would be the best tool to use to make the edge less square?

And how do I finish the surface, burnish with a shiny steel tool? Use boot polisH?

Remember these are functional spectacles, for reading in bed ... no temples and nosepads to get in the way when you fall alseep. That's the idea of them. Plus they look fabulous.

By the way this is my first post. Just trying to learn about a new material.

I'm in Auckland New Zealand

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Leather Bustier

Cassandra — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:10:16 GMT

so my boyfriend and i are making our second set of leather armor. we are not in the SCA ,so we are not following any rules, just trying to make something visually appealing. he also likes to make sure his is functional- because you never know when i might lose it and start hacking at him with my axe.
we are making me a leather bustier type thing and in order to avoid pointy boob sections (if we make a cone for each one) we are using a few curved sections and stitching them together. i really dont want some massive cones sticking out in front of me, poking people in the back. he, of course, wanted to put spikes right where the points would be. in any case, the body of the piece is composed to 3 separate pieces- the front (with attached boobs), and 2 back pieces that lace up in the center and also connect to the front.

anyways, due to some medication changes, i'm probably going to lose a little weight before i actually am going to wear the armor. we're already going to have to make it shorter, as when we wet it and i put it on, it stretched quite a bit and was super comfortable, instead of being a squish-oh god i cant breathe type of thing that i am used to.
my question is, should i bake it? we molded it, but it is not hard.. i am unsure about if i want it hard or not. if i am wearing it next to my skin and i'm sweating like crazy, will it suddenly lose it's shape and leave me hanging, so to speak?

and also, has anybody tried dying suede with normal leather dye? what about RIT? we bought him some suede pants but they are are a very pale grey, which neither of us like. we dont care much if the texture isnt great, as he'll only be wearing them a couple times a year (if at all- as it is he wont wear them). if we could do something to them to make them less offensive, it would be fantastic.

i posted this in the armorers guild tribe as well

thanks for your help
Cassandra

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

weaving leather

Cassandra — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 16:54:44 GMT

hi, i'm new

i was wondering if anybody has tried weaving with leather and inserting metal pieces in the weave to create sort of a reinforced armor?
i have an idea for a specific weave but since it'll be really time consuming and probably expensive (since i plan to use brass for the inserts) i wanted to ask before i started.
my questions for anybody who has woven are:
is it best to just cut slits in a piece or will the repeated inserting of strips cause the cut to widen and tear? would it maybe be better to weave out of single strips and then attach the finished weave to an outside piece to connect them?
if this is completely impossible to picture what i am trying to describe, i can probably sketch out what i am trying to say..

i did ask a guy who works at tandy leather and is also a member of the SCA, he sort of implied i was crazy to tackle a job like this.. that of course makes me want to even more, so any sort of input to help me succeed would be greatly appreciated!

thanks a bunch

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

Setting Semi precious stones

Mystful — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:01 GMT

I'm trying to set semi precious stones onto leather, like on a bracelet or thicker necklace.
Was wondering what would be needed for that.

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Where to buy...

Jason — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:25:16 GMT

My source for cheap, high quality tooling leather has dried up. I've been trying to search for places to get leather for a decent price, but the sites I end up googling tend to charge an arm and a leg. Can anyone help me out? I'm mostly looking for 8-9 oz oak tooling leather. Bellies, sides, shoulders, etc....it doesn't matter as long as there's a half decent area to it.

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Anyone from Maryland?

NightWolf77 — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:26:32 GMT

Just wondering if anyone in this tribe is from Maryland?

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

lacquer for leather?

Sat, 31 May 2008 13:04:45 GMT

Hi,
I've made a reproduction of a bowcase and quiver for reenactment and want to paint designs on them so I am wondering what type of lacquer to use on leather that won't damage leather or paint designs. I'm using earth pigments instead of commercial leather paints. Anybody have an idea what was used in antiquity through the middle ages in europe and asia to protect painted designs and waterproof the leather?

thanks, Jamie

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Metal Spots

Jason — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 23:29:00 GMT

Ok. So I was given some metal spots (Metal dome with a two-pronged bottom) and I was wondering about the most efficient way to use them. I'd like to use them on some bracers, but being curved pieces, how can I get the prongs to remain in place? Does anyone have some advice?

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Softening Leather

Jason — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 21:03:31 GMT

Ok, so I know that bowling leather and oiling leather will soften the material, though I'm having difficulty getting a piece soft enough. What I'm doing is making a boardgame board. It's 5 oz leather and tooled, but it still is rather stiff. I am able to roll it up as I had hoped to do, but in the end, when I unroll it, I still have to weigh down the corners to lay the game. Does anyone have any suggestions?

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

Stainless Steel / Leather flask questions

Artificer161 — Wed, 28 May 2008 11:31:54 GMT

Hi everyone I am new to this tribe and relatively new to leather work. I have been a crafter for many years and recently started to train myself in leather work. I have had some success and encouraging results. So that leads me to tackle something bigger and it requires me to ask questions of you all.

I have wanted to make a leather covered flask like the ones from Tandy. If you don't Know what I am talking about take a look here

http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/products.asp?number=44100-00

I have plenty of Veg tanned leather and all the tools and a good skill set with them. I even have an old stainless steel flask here to use for this project. So for those reasons and not wanting to spend the money I would like to avoid buying a Tandy kit. I myself for some time have wanted to do a project like this but only one detail has eluded me. How is the leather attached to the flask? Is it Glued, sewed, or a combination of both? And if it is sewed what type of stitch and where is the stitching located? Any help with this would be great. Thanks for taking the time to read my topic.

Artificer

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Shaping

willowRage — Tue, 20 May 2008 21:28:33 GMT

Does any know how this sort of shaping might be done. I like the technique and want to do something similar.
http://aslidesigns.com/clothing/page/55.htm

posted in Leatherworking - 12 replies

Changing colors

Wed, 21 May 2008 03:28:19 GMT

I ride motorcycles. I have enough leather riding gear to put the skin back onto at least four cows. But it's all black.

I have a police-style motorcycle jacket (the stereotypical 'biker gang' jacket full of zippers and buckles, you've seen em a million times) But I really wish it were brown instead of black. It's about twice my age, the jacket, and is tougher and thicker than they've made em in the last two decades at least. Even if I bought a brown one today, it would be a definite step-down in quality and road protection.

Is there any way to take out the black and bring back the brown? or leech out the black and add enough brown to cover it up? I dunno.

I love the jacket, I hate the color. Is there a magic answer out there for me?

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Etsy

Jason — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:07:54 GMT

Here's my vendor's site: ruehlleatherworks.etsy.com

Check it out and let me know what you think!

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

making drumheads

ozomatl — Sat, 17 May 2008 10:56:31 GMT

hey, I want make a drum out of a tree in my garden and a leatherjacket. I was thinking, how do I prepare a leather drum head? Do I harden the leather or just stretch it? Because I have played drums that seem to have hardened heads.

How do I harden the leather for a drumhead?

Do you know about making drumheads for hand drums?

Thanks, Ozomatl

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

What to do with suede

Jason — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:16:42 GMT

So I ordered some leather, and I thought I had ordered full grain leather, but I accidentally ordered a split. It's a LARGE piece of hide, but I'm at a loss as to what to make with it. I've not worked with suede b itself before. Any suggestions?

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Softening veggie tan??

Hjeron — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:30:58 GMT

How would one soften veggie tan leather once formed?
I was wondering about a light oiling, but an experienced view would help

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

My Gallery

Jason — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 13:04:24 GMT

I've recently signed up for a DeviantArt gallery to post my leatherworking pics. It's a nice site, but not to heavy on the leather craft. For anyone who'd like to see my gallery, go to www.ruehlleatherworks.deviantart.com

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

Looking for a Source for...

JorvikVikti — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 17:45:19 GMT

I don't know the name for this piece of hardware, but it is used on arm bracers (and hiking boots) to loop cord through to hold securely. When looked at from the side, this looks like a small "c" and is attached directly to the leather on the bottom of the "c" On archery arm guards, this item is used with either leather cord or elastic cord to bring the arm guard together around the forearm. I know I'm completely butchering the description of this "eye". If I have thoroughly confused people, let me know and I'll look for a picture of what I'm looking for.

I'm also looking for a source for elastic cord to make arm guards a person can put on solo without having someone else tie the armguard on.

Thank you in advance,
Jorvik

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

deer hide or scraps

sugarsink — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:39:42 GMT

i know very little about working with leather.
I have got a project in mind where i would like to try to construct a garment out of deerskin.
I dont really want to spend i whole lot of money just to fuck up a project.

Does anyone know where i could get some scraps of deerhide (for cheap or free) to practice on.

thank you.

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

Book Recommendations and Pattern Sources

JorvikVikti — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 17:39:28 GMT

I'm just starting with leatherwork. I am mostly interested in creating a quiver and armguards for archery.

What would you experienced folk recommend for a good book to start the learning process with? Does anyone know of a good web site for patterns?

Thank you,
Jorvik

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Maybe a simple question for you, but I'm stumped!

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 06:48:06 GMT

Hey guys, I'm looking to make a leather holster. I'm kinda new to leatherworking, but very handy. I'm really interested in all these different methods for forming leather. While many seem promising, others seem like they would be bad for the types of abuse that leather gets. What I need is for the leather to keep it's shape and a good deal of stiffness, while wearing against skin or nearly against skin. some sweat, some flexing, and some heat, nothing intense in and of itself but over long periods of time (day-in-day-out) i don't want the leather to lose it's form and stiffness. Also, I don't know how the ratings are for leather grades, but the stuff I'd be working with is about as thick as leather gets, (well maybe less... 2-3mm or so?)if that's any clue. Durability over aesthetics is my priority. The leather will need to closely fit all of the complex shapes of a firearm, it helps keep it in the right place. I hope I don't offend anybody not keen on firearms here, I work in the security industry and I'm trying to make something to keep you safe. I don't like strutting around with a shiny gun when I don't have to, but the type of arm i use needs a special holster, hence my need to homebuild one. Any help is greatly appreciated!

given these parameters, what do you think is the best method for forming/hardening the leather piece I need?

posted in Leatherworking - 8 replies

What to do first: Dye or Form?

Robert — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 01:25:17 GMT

I have experience molding vegetable tanned leather into masks - but I usually paint or stain them afterwards and have never needed to dye them.

I now have a new project in which I need to dye 4 full shoulders of veg tan leather one uniform color, tool it, and do some basic shaping for professional theatrical costumes. My question is thus.

Will the leather still shape properly if I dye it first? Or do I need to make the whole piece, shape it, and then dye it?

Thanks in advance - Robert

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

making a leather collar/choker neclace

brookswift — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 09:35:00 GMT

does anyone have advice on where to find hardware for a collar?

I'm going to be making my first one, as a gift and as a practice for the future. I have a lot of leather lying around to play with. I'm wondering where i might find things like buckles, d-rings, pendants to hang in front, and maybe some construction tips.

any help is appreciated.

posted in Leatherworking - 7 replies

Need a cincher pattern

padrhaig — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 18:39:22 GMT

Hey everyone!
I am looking for a pattern for a waist cincher like you see at the renfaires and sca events. Been doing every possible search i can think of on the net and no luck. Does anyone have a pattern I could look at / use? Thanks!

posted in Leatherworking - 10 replies

Introductions

Jason — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 14:03:05 GMT

Please allow me to introduce myself, I'm a man of wealth and taste. I've been around for a long, long .....

...wait....that's not right. That's the Rolling Stones! To begin with, people have frequently commented on my lack of taste (or as the polite ones say, my unique tastes) and I am FAR from being wealthy. Anyway, I do leather working as a hobby and I've been going about it for about 6 years now. My current pet projects are cuirboli and bracers. I got into leatherworking as a means of making leather objects that I couldn't afford to purchase outright. Of course there were some pretty ugly knife sheaths in the begining, but eventually they started looking nice enough to sell. Recently I've made everything from knife sheaths to custom leather carving, to a pair of sporrans for a local band.

Anyway, here I am! Hopefully I can be of assistance for someone here and, in turn, hopefully I can get some feedback from everyone else!

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Reptile Print Leather?

Jason — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 13:52:42 GMT

Does anyone know of an inexpensive place to find reptile-skin embossed leather? On an off chance, does anyone know how to MAKE reptile print leather easily and efficiently?

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Leather Pattern for Knees and Elbows

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 05:05:15 GMT

Hello,
Does anyone have patterns for Leather Knee "cops" protection and / or elbow. I've got some friends that have said they would get some to me, but it's been awhile and I'm getting impatient. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Conchobhar O'Ceallaigh

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

Forming leather??

MaRi'ANo — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 02:38:33 GMT

I want to make some masks with thin 1-2 oz leather, has anyone done extreme shapes? used heating process's to harden?

posted in Leatherworking - 7 replies

making leather stiff?

ALEXANDROS — Sun, 05 Mar 2006 02:16:05 GMT

Is there any product that can be applied topically to leather to stiffen it up after it becomes soft. The product that I wish to do this to is an renactor leather breast plate. I just don't want to go through the whole process of boiling it. Forgive me of my ignorance and thank you for any help.

posted in Leatherworking - 29 replies

Question about leather masks.

betty — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:39:28 GMT

I know how to form them and everything, so I suppose my question would be this:

Do any of you know what the best way of attaching feathers to a face mask is?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

BTW: I'm not talking about a feathered face mask, it's more along the lines of a mane of feathers.

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

white die problem

tight — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 23:27:53 GMT

aloha
i am using white die but i can't stop it from cracking
any ideas on how to seal it so it does not fall off and crack ?
thanks a lot

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

Sporrans

Umbramyst — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 21:42:12 GMT

Is any one in this tribe familiar with a Sporran? I am looking at one that is made from 2 different types of leather and wondering if there are any patterns out in the the world of internet or if anyone knows how to get one. I have been looking for 2 days, but it maybe a matter of not putting the right thing in when searching. It has been many, many years since I have done anything with leather and am getting the urge to get back into it a little. I am finding that I need to learn it all over again. If nothing else I have a pattern worked up myself, just need to work the bugs out of it.

Umbramyst

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

how do i make stiff, new looking leather soft and vintage like?

anna — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:03:18 GMT

i have a stunning leather bag that would look all that more perfect if it was or appeared to be 'worn in'..
are there any chemical solutions i can buy that will help me achieve this look?
thankyou in advance

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

Need help getting started! Classes or books? Esp. collars

Lizzi — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 07:58:18 GMT

Hello!
I am very interested in learning how to make things with leather. Specifically, I would like to learn how to make belts and dog collars. I am not sure if anyone has any info on specifics to dog collars, but I would assume there may be a difference in the type of dyes or sealants used to make sure they would not be harmful to the dog?
Anyway, I would REALLY like to find some sort of class to take on leatherworking but I don't know where to look for something like this. I'm in Chicago area. Alternatively, if anyone knows any good books or other resources which would have specific info on making belts/collars that would also be helpful! Or even if you can give me some key words to search for so I can try to find classes that would be helpful, because I'm not even sure what the title would be for a class on this topic, so I don't know if I could find it even if there was one available...

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

How Much?

jwalkmagic — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 19:36:18 GMT

The eternal question.

How much is our work worth?

As a leather crafter I always use the best materials available, I hand cut, hand tool and hand stitch every thing I make.

Increasingly I am finding that people are complaining that I am over pricing my work. Unfortunately they seem to be comparing it to mass produced items from third world countries that pay children about half a buck a day to do the work.

I see many crafts people in my area who seem to be resigned to getting less for there work just so they get something.

So what to do?

Should I pay myself like some third world wage slave and skimp on materials and workmanship?

Should I try to find a way to educate the customer as to why I charge what I do?

Should I just resign myself to waiting for that increasingly rare person who seems to appreciate solid hand craftsmanship?

I'm sure some of you have faced this dilemma as well. Any opinions are welcome.

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

boy scouts

dsleatherworks — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 06:33:25 GMT

We have a boy in our nieborhood that is in boyscouts. he has asked us to help him in geting his leathercraft merit badge. My question is has anyone here ever help someone in boyscouts get a merit badge . I already looked all the requrments up . just trying to get as much info that I can.

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

looking for rivets

tight — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:06:00 GMT

does any one out there in cyberland know where to find big head 1/4 rivets
or some that will fix 2 -8 oz pieces
any help would be great

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Top five tools to start leatherwork.

Amber — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 21:59:10 GMT

What are the tools you consider indispensible while working your craft? I am heading to the craft store this weekend and need some ideas. Please!!??!

~Am

thanks and LOVE

posted in Leatherworking - 17 replies

Dye Solvant ?

dsleatherworks — Sun, 20 May 2007 12:43:18 GMT

What other then the dye solvant in the tandy leather dye pack can i use?

To me the solvant smells like fingernail polish remover * blinks with an odd look * Either that or i have sniffed to many fumes from the dye *lol*

I have noticed that a lot of items that they sell at tandy you can find else where cheaper but they are not specifically for the job so im just wondering.. AKA tracing paper

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

leather bottles?

Fri, 16 Dec 2005 15:08:49 GMT

Hiya! I'm making leather bottles and I had a few questions if y'all dont mind.
I got them dried to the point where they're ready to waterproof on the insides. I found a place to get brewers pitch online, but I've never used it before, Any tips?
I'd love to find the pitch locally here in Michigan too, if anyone might have a local source they'd hip me to I'd also appreciate that.
Thanks!

posted in Leatherworking - 9 replies

Seeking Leatherwork Artists for Consignment in our Store!

Janna — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:37:23 GMT

Hi everyone,

I am in the process of opening a brand spankin' new (and my very first!) store in New Buffalo, MI. The name of my store is 'Superfly' and we will be specializing in t-shirts, jewelry, vintage purses, wierd home accents, original outsider arts & crafts and generally unique gifts! I am currently looking for artists and crafters that might be interested in putting items in the store on a consignment basis.

The store is located in a big, upper-class art community area and you would get plenty of exposure for your work! So anyway, if you might be interested, please feel free to drop me a line either here on Tribe or to my email addy: superflystore@gmail.com

Thanks for reading my post and I look forward to speaking with all soon!!

Janna

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

silkscreening on leather?

iRiS — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 01:12:36 GMT

have you ever?

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

what paint should i use for leather?

Smurfette — Thu, 05 Jan 2006 17:02:48 GMT

should i use acrylic? liquitex is pretty flexible when dry
what about flourescent paints also? anyone know, thanx

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

anyone?

iRiS — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 20:52:24 GMT

a very nice young lady contacted me through my etsy store and asked if I could make her a belt, and a belt bag like these for her SCA
shindigs... I dont have long enough strips of leather, nor do I make bags and pouches really...

I thought maby I'd post here incase anyone wants to take the custom order?

http://www.garbtheworld.com/items/g0042.shtml

Love, Iris

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

help to get started with leather craft

edward — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 22:47:39 GMT

if there is any1 out there that can help me get started in leather craft or know of any home correspondance courst out there for me to do can you please let me know.

posted in Leatherworking - 17 replies

Leather Crafting Groups On Yahoo

jwalkmagic — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 21:45:54 GMT

I found these groups on Yahoo and thought I would pass them along.

Both groups contain information, patterns and lessons that would be useful to both beginning and more experienced leather workers.

Enjoy.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/olhscleather/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/flasah/

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

my new old lady

slice-o-pi — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 09:45:52 GMT

My new lady is fine, a beautiful thing to look at! true, she's a little older than i'd normally go for, but that's just her experience showing. sure she's got some years on her, but man, i'm telling you: when you get my baby fired up she can go faster, longer, and harder than almost any other! i mean she's smokin! plus, she's GERMAN, and if you've ever had the pleasure of doing it with a german, i don't have to tell you how well they're put together. all she does is BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG...! far as i'm concerned she's worth every penny, and i'm gonna make sure she works to pay off all the money i put into her new "parts". she's downstairs waiting for me right now, all lubed up and ready for action. and lemme tell ya: i plan to give it to her!

that's right kiddos. i'm talking about my new lady. i'm talking about my new queen bitch. i'm talking, ladies and gentlemen, about my very own bali-in-the-basement.

meet hildegaard, my very ancient but very sturdy and ridiculously hardcore PFAFF 145 walking foot leather-ready industrial sewing machine with knob-touch reverse and stitch length adjustment, knee-activated presser foot arm and a drop-in bobbin for easy action. oh, she's a giver, alright.

i think i'll go fondle the machine some more....

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Share my excitement! New hide!

Amber — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 21:37:59 GMT

Hi leatherworker pals,

I just traded for a new gorgeous boars hide, dyed greyish/tannish- very distressed loooking and ultra-pretty!

I am sooo looking forward to beginning to put my new ideas to fruition!

I just wanted to share my glee w/ like-minded others.

YAY!

Am

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Getting started w/leatherwork.....

Marla — Sun, 11 Feb 2007 13:58:37 GMT

Greetings!

I would totally appreciate advice on how to get started in leatherwork (with a minimum of investment) without having a mentor to apprentice myself to. Can anyone point me in the right direction? I'm in Central IL. Thanks so much!

Love, Marla

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Leather Shoe sewing...I want to learn this

Achbar — Sun, 27 Nov 2005 23:12:23 GMT

Sewing Leather Shoes... what sight should I look at. I am in a Medieval Organization and I need good foot wear

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

a leather blog

bigy52 — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 12:40:53 GMT

thought I'd share my blog with the leather tribe :O)
http://people.tribe.net/bigy52

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

New pics.fron the Pict!

Sat, 13 Jan 2007 15:50:48 GMT

Finally had a chance to upload some pics. of my recent projects . Got Leather?

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

will wax hold leather on a mask?

j-e-s-s — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 19:51:26 GMT

Hey - I am working on a mask.
A friend suggested that I cover it in beeswax, then warm it up and stick whatever on top to make my mask.
I've cut fine slices of leather and am wondering if anyone has used leather and wax together?

Any suggestions on how to best attach leather strips to a mask form?

Thanks in advance..

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Eyelets and Swede

Nick — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 00:26:19 GMT

Hope someone can shed some light on using eyelets in swede. I am finding that after placing the eyelet through the precut hole in the swede and crimping it that it is not holding as the swede is so stretchy... the eyelet falls out. I also tried crimping the eyelet in place without making a hole first but this was even worse. Can anyone suggest what I am doing wrong, or am I using the wrong tool or item for this? I am making swede pouches and the eyelets are to allow a leather thong to be woven through as a draw-string.

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

Rivit variations?

EliCurrey — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 18:01:03 GMT

Does anyone know where to get any rivits...or other leatherwork accessories..
Im looking for rivits that are carved/engraved/stamped... something too add just a lil differnt to my items hehe...
but all iv been able to find is the Tandy Star rivites....
anyone have any secret vendors out there theyed like to share?

also im goign to be hitchign my way upto alaska in the spring/summer and am looking to make a travel leathershop...
does anyone also know of any good small portable leather toolkits?
-=^..^=-
would be much much apreciated!!!

also... can I upload my photos here for some feedback?

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Where to get leather

puckschilde — Sun, 18 Dec 2005 22:33:35 GMT

Help! My old leather sources have disappeared! Boy, you look away for a couple of decades and everythings different.
I'm looking to buy some belt quality double shoulders. Any suggestions?
Thanks

posted in Leatherworking - 15 replies

Check out my new tribe

jwalkmagic — Tue, 28 Nov 2006 18:27:25 GMT

I decided to start a tribe.

I know it is titled Crafty New Englanders but all are welcome.

http://tribes.tribe.net/craftynewengland

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

do you know where

iRiS — Mon, 02 Oct 2006 19:43:59 GMT

I can find a pro skiver? The kind you attach to the edge of your work table? I am sick of using the hand skiver to make belts....Tandy doesnt seem to have it on its site...
Thanks, Iris

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

searching for locking roller buckles

Kari — Tue, 03 Oct 2006 00:17:37 GMT

I am looking for sources for locking roller buckles. Business only suppliers are okay.

posted in Leatherworking - 7 replies

Leather dyeing

border_reiver — Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:11:25 GMT

Greetings all, new to this tribe, looks like fun as well as informitive. I would like to darken a pair of seude leather boots. What would be the best way?

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Grommet question

dans — Mon, 16 Jan 2006 20:26:36 GMT

I would like to reproduce this buckle <http://www.byz.org/~dans/Rivets/Rivets.html>, but I can't figure out how it is secured. Is there such thing as a two-headed grommet? Both the front and back of the grommet appear smooth, without any screwdriver slot or smashed flanges.

The only thing I could think of was that the grommets were set before the leather was folded over, then the leather was glued shut, making it look like nice and clean. What kind of glue what you recommend to for something like that. Clearly it wasn't done with a hot glue gun, because it is quite sturdy.

I looked at a tandy, brettuns village and siegel, but couldn't find any such two-headed conches or grommets. Any thoughts?

posted in Leatherworking - 8 replies

reinforcing a leather belt

sharon — Thu, 31 Aug 2006 02:16:07 GMT

I'm new to leather AND tribe. I'm making a wide belt that I will hang small bags, phone holders, ipod holders, etc. from (with a clip). I don't want the leather to stretch out where the clip sits, so I want to back it with something. I am thinking of some sort of plastic sheet, is there some sort of non-stretch interfacing that could be used? Something non woven so I won't have to bind the seam.

Because the belt sits low on the hips, the belt is curved, (not from a straight cut of leather). Therefore I can't use something that comes on a roll. I also don't want this interfacing to be thick. The thinner the better. (Its a fashion item, and no one wants to add bulk to their mid-section).

posted in Leatherworking - 9 replies

Leather hardware.

Fuego — Fri, 28 Jan 2005 19:37:07 GMT

Hi there folks. I'm always looking for web sites where I can find unusual and unique hardware such as snaps, rivets, eyelettes, buckles, ect. Not Tandy...been there done that

posted in Leatherworking - 7 replies

Finally got pics up

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 18:52:03 GMT

Here are some pics of a few of my leather projects for your opinions
most of it was made for sale at renn faires, and one suit of SCA combat armour

http://entertainment.webshots.com/album/553713576yVrYiv

Thanks
Morgan

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

double & single sided rivets

Yamina — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 12:28:07 GMT

Everytime I try to use these the rivet does not set even. For example the bottom is not directly under the top after I set it. I'm using a rivet setter and have practiced a lot, but it still happens. Any advice?

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

a few recent pieces

slice-o-pi — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 05:41:26 GMT

finally had some time to myself to create. please check em out and let me know what you think!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/77227781@N00/sets/72157594224552142/

posted in Leatherworking - 7 replies

new pics posted

zoltan — Wed, 24 May 2006 00:01:21 GMT

of a vest googgles and gauntlets...
waddaya reakon?
i do custom orders should anyone perchance fancy...

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

I'm sorta new to Leather working...a few questions

Burgolf — Thu, 24 Nov 2005 04:53:12 GMT

Hey Hide Slicers!

I am making leg armor and am having a hard time cutting curves in saddle skirting...I have an Xacto and a razor knife.

In the past I used a scroll saw....but that's down.

Is there some sort of a super tool for cutting thick leather?

Also...cleaning up edges....I have that plastic wheel thingy...it doesn't work that great...is there something better??

Please...any advice will be cherished.

Thanks
Burgolf

posted in Leatherworking - 6 replies

Newbie who nids help...

ben — Sun, 02 Jul 2006 04:23:06 GMT

Hi,

I nid some advice on wat type of paint to use for painting a nike air force 1. I bought a "Daler Rowney" acrylic tube of paint but when i painted on paper and let water run through it, de colour ran, so i'm kinda holding bak painting ma shoe... Help, tks...

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Soft Spongy leather

Chuck — Wed, 07 Jun 2006 16:34:05 GMT

Hello Everyone,
I bought some bracers a few years back at a Renaissance Festival and they are the most comfortable bracer I have ever worn. The seller said that they were made of buffalo. The unique thing about these bracers is their soft, spongy feel. The leather is very thick, at least ¼”. I have been googling looking for instructions on how to do this with leather because I want to make some custom bracers and I want them to feel the way these do. Does anyone have any ideas how to make leather super soft and spongy? Someone said I should try boiling the leather in saddle soap or pure lye but that seems kinds dangerous to the poor leather. Any suggestion or ideas?

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

making a watch strap

Vladimir — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 13:47:52 GMT

Hi people!

I would like to ask you a little help...

maybe my english is not excellent but i'll try to explain myself...

I would like to make for hobby watch straps-bands...

So, my question would be : What do I need of tools to start making them...
To clear one thing, I would like to make them by hand, without use of machines...
I think that i know in theory what do I need, but it makes me difficult searching through internet because i do not know what are the names of the tools that i need to get for starting my project...
In basic, what would i need is this :
1.leather
2.strap cutter
3.oversticher/space marker
4.strap end punches
5.hole punches
6.awl
7.scratch awl
8.needle
9.waxed thread
10.mallet
Maybe I missed something...correct me if that is so...
Every measure on the Internet from web stores that offer tools for leathercrafting are US..would be helpful if you could tell me what measures of needle do i need, hole punches, etc....

It would be nice if someone of you could make me a list of the needed tools with a little explain of what a single tool use is...
Also, i found some books that could be of help to me...could you give me a comment if they are the right ones...
1.leathercraft tools - Al Stohlman
2.The art of hand sewing leather - Al Stohlman

If anyone answers to my questions I would be very grateful...
Tnx in advance...

Kind regards,
Vladimir

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies

Hello.

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 14:30:27 GMT

I am new to this group and just wanted to take a moment and say "Hello" to everyone. I hope everyone is well.

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Photos

fayme — Sun, 15 Jan 2006 04:16:07 GMT

Thanks for posting your photos Fearghus. Are you the Fearghus I know from the archery range?

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

Question on grommets/eyelets...

Alanna — Fri, 13 Jan 2006 19:16:02 GMT

Hi, I am new to leatherworking. I have made some leather costumes and toys using those cheap "hit-to-fit" style nickel grommets and fasteners. Over time they have accrued some rust. Is there a rust-resistant alternative? What do all you professionals use?

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

New Photo Comment Feature

fayme — Thu, 08 Dec 2005 01:30:33 GMT

Has anyone else discovered the photo comment feature? I love it so far, because you can click on a photo and then ask questions or compliment the person that made the project. The only downside is some people never say anything nice, but hopefully everyone will use this feature wisely.

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Just saying hi

jwalkmagic — Wed, 09 Nov 2005 15:35:29 GMT

Hi all

I am new to this tribe and tribes in general. I am an old hand at leather craft having honed my skills in the Renaissance Faires in California.

I am currently living on Cape Cod trying to get my business going out of my home. More on that when/if there is progress.

Any way - just wanted to intro myself.

Joe

"Life is to short to splice wire rope."

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

sewing machine

slice-o-pi — Tue, 11 Oct 2005 23:30:17 GMT

anybody know where to get em cheap? of course, it's gotta go through leather.

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

check out my latest piece

zoltan — Wed, 19 Oct 2005 13:47:22 GMT

arrowone OPH organic protective helmut
more than 100 pieces
around 140 hours work entirly by hand and tool
learning off selim check on google selim ibiza
he has invented it and has been in development for 30 years!
we are happy creators on the final frontier of freedom!!
im developing the idea so i can make them for ski-snowboard action ... i also make fire performance outfits stilt costumes and motor bike suits.... all in various stages of development...

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

whip tribe

fayme — Wed, 24 Aug 2005 22:42:23 GMT

If you are interested in whips, we could also use your expertiese over here: http://whipsropesandwires.tribe.net/?r=10025
At the very least, please post your whip photos over there.

posted in Leatherworking - 0 replies

Bay Area leather crafter?

Raaaagh! — Mon, 22 Aug 2005 07:29:33 GMT

So, I'm from the bay area and im looking for a leather crafter. Can you figure out what kind of projects im working on? Thats right! adult projects! And i need someone with some experience to do some leather work for me, i'm trying to find people who do good work and would like to help me get a few ideas out there. Anyone that might be able to help me directly or indirectly, please say hi!

posted in Leatherworking - 1 reply

Sincrafters pictures.

Nick_Matern — Wed, 10 Aug 2005 05:33:01 GMT

Hey everybody. I finally managed some decent pictures of a few of my pieces. I posted to the tribe. Hope you enjoy.

posted in Leatherworking - 5 replies

Just a few pics

WINEGOD — Sun, 07 Aug 2005 17:33:49 GMT

Since I'm new on the tribe I figured I'd show a few pics of a bracelet I did not long ago, I hope you like it. I have more things, just not photos yet.

posted in Leatherworking - 2 replies

Greetings all!

Fearghus — Thu, 21 Jul 2005 13:58:29 GMT

OK if for no other reason than to get more people to post I'd like to say hi... My name is Floyd. I actually Joined Tribes.net because I wanted to join several SCA tribes, (Fearghus is a SCAdian name) but I have also been a leatherworker for about 10 years now. I am always willing to share information and always looking to learn more. My skills have concentrated on sewing and tooling leather. (I especially have a thing for Celtic knot work) but I have also done experiments in hardening and shaping leather. I just recently picked up a couple books on braiding but have only mastered the very simplest of braids

Anyway this is just a hello to all in the tribe and I’d like to get to know some of you. Once I get around to it I will post some photos of my work in my profile.

TTYL

posted in Leatherworking - 3 replies

Any braiders or knot tyers here?

Nick_Matern — Mon, 11 Apr 2005 07:18:16 GMT

Hi all. I've been looking through the posts on here and haven't seen any pertaining to leather braiding or fancy knotwork. I myself make SM toys, mainly floggers. I do a lot of turks heads, pinapple knots, gaucho knots and the like. Anybody who wants to see is more than welcome to check out my stuff at Sincrafters.com. I also dabble with tooling and moulding and every once in a while, I even break down and sew something.

Most of my pieces include at least some kangaroo, I also deal a lot with goat, deer, elk, moose, and buffalo leathers.

I know there aren't likely many fellow Utahns on this tribe, but I'll jump on any chance to talk to other leather geeks. I'm always interested in sharing tips and techniques.

posted in Leatherworking - 4 replies