Wallets

[eirenealetheia]

I'd like to make a wallet for a friend. Just have his initials tooled, dyed and perhaps details painted, and laced edges.

Now, my problem... I have no idea where to start! I think I have a vague idea what I'd need for the tooling as I've read a few tutorials and tips on here which are a huge help! Dying shouldn't be too complicated I guess (I have dyed for another project I did and that worked out OK!). But the actual construction and lacing are what worry me! I thought about trying to get a kit, but the only leather supply shop near me doesn't have any blank ones (only ones that have been pre-stamped with designs, which really isn't what I want). I'm on a budget so I don't want to buy a ton of books, and can't find anything useful in my local library...

Could someone please outline basically where I'd need to start? OK so I guess I need veg tanned leather coz I'm carving, but what thickness? Is there a "standard" size or pattern I should cut it to? Would it be better to get premade wallet inserts (considering I'm a flat-out beginner) or try making all that too (I saw there was a tutorial on here)? How would I fix the insert to the leather?

Then for lacing... I read another thread where there was a bit of discussion whether holes or slits were better, etc. etc. I think it left me more confused than when I started!! Basically I want my lacing to look *something* like this: http://www.indiantrailtradingpost.com/lalebi.html OK maybe a book with nice obvious pictures would be a good place to start for me here. Any suggestions of useful titles? Also, what do I basically need? Hole punch and lace are the obvious things... What else?

Thanks so much, and sorry for the total newbie questions!!

[ferret]

Leatherwork manual is good for newbies, it's got a pattern for a wallet and lacing instuctions (with pics)

Edited February 9, 2009 by ferret

[Dags3777]

Remember to make the outer bigger than the inner, it's not much, but it will save you some heartache. Trust me. Darryl