Vintage Postal Bag Reproduction

[corter]

I got a job in this week that was the largest piece I've ever done- a 17"x12"x5" reproduction of an old leather postal carrier's bag. I never really use a template, but the bag came out nice and centered and looking really swell I think. I used about 20 rivets, and everything is hand sewed. Took a couple days, but I'm really happy with it! I'd love any thoughts, or maybe ideas for next time. This one is natural leather, which the customer will tan and oil to his liking, so it'll eventually turn a nice carmel, then get darker over time.

[builderofstuff]

I really like this a lot! Very well done. I think the color is perfect for this, in fact if it were me I'm not sure I'd do anything but oil it. Great job.

Chris

www.builderofstuff.com

[BIGGUNDOCTOR]

I have an original one, possibly two-can't remember. I was teaching handicrafts at a BSA summer camp, and someone donated some to cut up for the leather. Some were shot, and they were used up in projects. I found some that were still in good shape, and rescued them.

[Ferg]

I got a job in this week that was the largest piece I've ever done- a 17"x12"x5" reproduction of an old leather postal carrier's bag. I never really use a template, but the bag came out nice and centered and looking really swell I think. I used about 20 rivets, and everything is hand sewed. Took a couple days, but I'm really happy with it! I'd love any thoughts, or maybe ideas for next time. This one is natural leather, which the customer will tan and oil to his liking, so it'll eventually turn a nice carmel, then get darker over time.

I think it is clever and well done.

I have a question. Did you copy the way the seams are done or was that your idea for a "Different" looking "Welt"?

I noticed you sewed close to the edge of the welt/seam. Did you also sew at the joint towards the outside?

Just curious

ferg

[corter]

Thanks guys!

50 Years Later- are you talking about the seam at the bottom? it's not a welt seam, just a 1" overlap, riveted and stitched on both sides to strengthen the bottom, which was true to the original I worked with in designing this one.

[abn]

Awesome! I love the design, the color, and especially the thoughtful use of copper rivets... Very classy!

[Mandy]

wow, that's awesome !!! Don't think i will ever be that good !

[corter]

Thanks!

Mandy- Don't say that, you totally will. I've only been at it 3 years- just work on deconstructing things you want to make, it's really not that difficult in the end. Work thoughtful and clean, and it all comes together fairly well!

[Ferg]

Thanks guys!

50 Years Later- are you talking about the seam at the bottom? it's not a welt seam, just a 1" overlap, riveted and stitched on both sides to strengthen the bottom, which was true to the original I worked with in designing this one.

No, I was referring to the vertical seams. Yes, I realized they were not Welts.

ferg

[UKRay]

Nice clean work. I'd use one of those!

Ray

[Miett]

I got a job in this week that was the largest piece I've ever done- a 17"x12"x5" reproduction of an old leather postal carrier's bag. I never really use a template, but the bag came out nice and centered and looking really swell I think. I used about 20 rivets, and everything is hand sewed. Took a couple days, but I'm really happy with it! I'd love any thoughts, or maybe ideas for next time. This one is natural leather, which the customer will tan and oil to his liking, so it'll eventually turn a nice carmel, then get darker over time.

Absolutely brilliant! I would love to try making one of these when I have more experience under my belt. You mentioned you had an original to work from? Is that why you didn't use a template?