What Tools To Get Started With Wallets?

[eglassman88]

Hello Everyone,

I'm a complete newbie and I want to start making simple leather wallets. What tools do you suggest I invest in to get started? I'd like to make something small and simple. I wouldn't be carving designs into the leather (maybe just a stamp) and they'd be very simple designs. Is there a package or something of the like (with all the tools) I could purchase?

Thanks much!!!

Ed

[eglassman88]

I'd like to start by making something like this - https://www.etsy.com/listing/156213059/sale-three-pocket-flat-wallet-hand?ref=shop_home_active

[electrathon]

As an absolite minimum you will need a box cutter, punch or awl and needles. Once you get a better focus on exactly what you want to do the list will get longer, but you can start (and make simple wallets) with a very short list.

[superpacker]

I'm in the exact same boat as the OP. Totally new, just wanting to make small, basic card cases and fountain pen sleeves. Not to hijack the post, but any further contributions would be great! Or any links to previous posts. Any recommendations on where to get said tools, the level of quality, what about thread, what kind of needles, etc.

[electrathon]

where are you at?

[superpacker]

SW Florida (if you were referring to location)

[electrathon]

Yes, I was going to tell you to come over and I would show you, but not now. Long drive.

[superpacker]

Yes, long drive. I appreciate the offer, however. I have done continued reading, and it seems like if I want to make simple card holders out of chromexcel and english bridle leather, these are some for sures that I will need. Please also feel free to way in on the quality. I am just thinking of picking these few things up tomorrow, as Tandy is having a big sale. However, if anyone has an opinion on a better source, please share.

1. Pack of stitching needles: http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/en-usd/search/searchresults/1195-00.aspx

2. Stitch groover: http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/en-usd/search/searchresults/8074-00.aspx

3. Overstitch wheel: http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/en-usd/search/searchresults/8091-00.aspx.

I go back and forth on the overstitch wheel, as chisels seem more professional, as well as technically easier (don't you have to go through an then punch each hole individually after the stitch wheel? Seems like a 3-4 pron chisel would save work and provide more uniformity, but, they do cost more. Which chisels should I get, if that route is better?

4. Scratch awl: http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/en-usd/search/searchresults/3217-00.aspx (do I need an awl with a blade)?

5. Thread: still reading about what thread I want to get (unless you can recommend a good training thread, and I and get nicer thread for nicer leathers)

6. Burnishing wheel.

[electrathon]

1. Pack of stitching needles: http://www.tandyleat...ts/1195-00.aspx

2. Stitch groover: http://www.tandyleat...ts/8074-00.aspx

3. Overstitch wheel: http://www.tandyleat...ts/8091-00.aspx.

I go back and forth on the overstitch wheel, as chisels seem more professional, as well as technically easier (don't you have to go through an then punch each hole individually after the stitch wheel? Seems like a 3-4 pron chisel would save work and provide more uniformity, but, they do cost more. Which chisels should I get, if that route is better?

4. Scratch awl: http://www.tandyleat...ts/3217-00.aspx (do I need an awl with a blade)?

5. Thread: still reading about what thread I want to get (unless you can recommend a good training thread, and I and get nicer thread for nicer leathers)

6. Burnishing wheel.

1- loose the big eye needles and get harness needles. Work better and are stronger.

2- no need to do this. Just push a dent in the leather with a stylus (or a nonworking ball point pen).

3- I hate overstitch wheels. I use pricking irons but on a budget go to the thrift store and buy a fork. Theywork well. Sharpen it on a stone.

4- 31218-01 this is the awl (tandy quality but will get you started).

5- 1227-02 OK starter thread.

6- do not buy. Glycene saddle soap rubbed with a scrap of denum is better. But you can not burnish chrome tan.

Edited December 31, 2013 by electrathon

[superpacker]

Is there a recommended training leather? Would like to make a few before ruining a beautiful piece of chromexcel.

What about edge bevelers? How do you know which size you need?