Newbie Question On Forms

[hosscomp]

Al Stohlman talks briefly about making wooden forms or wood mandrils for cases. Are there other ways to this? I am planning to make a cylindrical case similar to the dice cup about 2.5 inches in diameter. The largest dowels i can find in local hardware stores are 2 inches in diameter. Do most leather workers have their own wood lathe and wood tools for making such forms? I found this one, Neiko 10370 Wood Cutting Lathe G1-1000, online for around $100 and am wondering if this would be a good one for such or if there is a less expensive way to do forms, or if they are really necessary.

[Northmount]

You could try different pipe sizes from your local home center. PVC or ABS pipe is not all that expensive. Pipe is usually measured by inside diameter so take a tape measure or rule with you so you can get the size you really want.

Once you buy a lathe, you also need a set of lathe tools. A cheap set starts around $100. You also need a place to put it. Then to learn how to use it. You can make a lot of shavings or firewood in a short time.

[hosscomp]

You could try different pipe sizes from your local home center. PVC or ABS pipe is not all that expensive. Pipe is usually measured by inside diameter so take a tape measure or rule with you so you can get the size you really want.

Once you buy a lathe, you also need a set of lathe tools. A cheap set starts around $100. You also need a place to put it. Then to learn how to use it. You can make a lot of shavings or firewood in a short time.

Thanks. I was thinking the wood was necessary to put tacks in, but I was just reading in Al's hand sewing book that that you can use jars, pipes, and such, but will have to glue the seam for sewing. I am not quite ready to get into woodworking yet, so I'm sure I can find something the size I need or find someone with a lathe nearby that will make a dowel for me.

Thanks again,

Ron

[Ladykahu]

I work at a college.. and the woodworking tutor (also a cabinet maker on the side) made me a stitching pony.. and in return I am making him a couple of odd shaped belt pouches for some rare brass tools he uses. You may find a woodworker in your area who is happy to do some trading with you.

Natalie