Law Dog Style holster 2009 015.JPG

Great job on the holster. I have just bought my first $300.00 worth of leather tools just to make some great holsters. I only hope they turn out half as good as yours. Good job.

Thanks WESTBOUND, I started in leather a little over four years ago, and my main purpose was to learn how to make my own holsters and gun leather, it's a lot of fun, and the best part you can make it the way you want, fit and finish is all up to you. Good luck with your holster making, just go slow and enjoy the process, and make sure you save your first holster, so you can have it to look back on to see your progress.

Regards

tEN wOLVES

tEN wOLVES, Do you have any tips for a beginner, or other pictures of holsters you made. I am trying to get some ideas.

How far from the outline of gun do I make the stitches on the pattern? I have read anywhere from 3/16" to 3/4". The holsters I am starting with are going to be ones that I form to the gun so it will be snug inside. I backpack and don't want to lose the gun, so a tight fit is necessary to prevent loss. I will make other holsters, so will the stitches vary on proximity to the gun for different types of holsters?

I am more excited about making the designs on the holsters than making the holsters themselves, but excited about the whole process.

Thanks for your help.

Howdy Westbound

On stitch lines I usually use 3/16" to 1/4" away from the edge, I also make sure the back side is just a little proud of the finish side on the seam line when cementing, after I cement the seam line, I go to my belt sander and using a clean 220 grit paper, I bring the seam line to 90 degrees, this is where having the back side a little proud of the front comes into play, you won't end up sanding into your seam line, on the front but will straighten it out so you can put an accurate stitch groove on the back, it makes this process a lot easier when everything is at 90 degrees.

Good luck, and enjoy the craft

tEN wOLVES

Thanks, tEN wOLVES.

I used a sanding wheel on my drill press for my first holster I made a few days ago.

It helps to have a knowledgeable person to ask. I have a lot of ideas for holsters. Now I have to get busy and make them.

Thanks again.

WESTBOUND