New Member From Southern Illinois.

[The Grizzly]

Hello folks! My name is Craig Collier and I'm from Metropolis, IL. I'm 30 years old and last year I started into the craft of knifemaking. I am currently doing handmade handles on professional blanks while learning the 'stock removal' method of bladecraft. I also do all the sheaths for my own knives as well as sheaths for other folks. I am still very new to this craft and I seek to learn all I can to better my skills and produce the best quality items I can for customers and myself.

I am an Eagle Scout, receiving the award in 1995. During my Scouting adventures, I loved knives and enjoyed doing a bit of leatherwork while at camp, but never picked it up after I made Eagle. After doing my first few knives and sheaths, and one small tooled project...I can say that I'm hooked. I wish I had stayed with doing this stuff instead of getting into other, much more expensive and less fruitful hobbies.

As a new member, I would like to share with you my first 4 knife sheaths. I am still in my early learning phases, but I'm loving every minute of it. These sheaths are all 8/9oz veg tanned leather, dyed with Fiebing's Pro Oil black and finished with several coats of Kiwi Mink Oil worked in with a hot hair dryer. Please let me know what you think!

My first sheath after watching Chuck Burrows' DVD set. Made for my EDC knife.

First order, knife and sheath.

Next two orders for the previous customer, one for his dad and brother. The C looks double stamped, but I think its an artifact of the photo...because it's not there

Also, this is the first piece of actual tooled leather I completed. It was a pattern in the back of my tool set and I thought "Hey, I can do that", so I did.

Once again, I appreciate you looking and any comments are most welcome!

[Luke Hatley]

Welcome Craig, you have showed us some very nice work. have i seen you at Ft Masic (sp)

[The Grizzly]

Thanks Luke!

I've been to the Massac Encampment the past several years, but never participated. I've been thinking about doing some period type stuff and taking it out there this year, or at the very least setting up a table outside with some knives on it. Do you set up a booth/tent there?

Edited February 4, 2011 by The Grizzly

[TwinOaks]

From one Eagle to another, Welcome to Leatherworker.net!

You've got a good start, and we are looking forward to helping you progress in your addiction new hobby.

[The Grizzly]

Thanks Mike, I appreciate it! It is an addiction for sure, but a good one

[Luke Hatley]

Thanks Luke!

I've been to the Massac Encampment the past several years, but never participated. I've been thinking about doing some period type stuff and taking it out there this year, or at the very least setting up a table outside with some knives on it. Do you set up a booth/tent there?

Do some period knives and you will do good.

I've always went as a visitor,i realy like the food and visit with friends that are

partisipants

[The Grizzly]

I think the food is what most people come for!

[Luke Hatley]

I think the food is what most people come for!

Also i like to say "I WENT TO THE HOME OF SUPERMAN "

[CowboyBob]

Great Looking sheaths the stitching looks perfect!!

[mandyregal]

Hi,

I just wanted to chime in here and let you know that we're practically neighbors! I'm from Paducah and I'm fairly new to leatherworking as well. I've been kind of apprenticing under a leathersmith in Lone Oak and I'm really enjoying it.

PS. I love FT Massac, I can't leave with out getting some kettle corn and chicken n dumplings.

Mandy

[King's X]

Nice work you have there. Welcome to the forum and greetings from Central Texas!