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Big Steve, welcome to Leatherworker.net. That's some creative work you have posted on your website. Looking forward to seeing more! Best regards, -Alex

Alymon, welcome to Leatherworker.net. You've found what I think is the best collection of online leatherworkers in the world. It's a great place for beginners to learn more. If your workspace is cramped, it's actually not a problem. I worked for many years on the kitchen table in a small apartment. While I now have a larger dedicated space, I still fit all of my hand tools into a 20" Craftsman toolbox. Over time, many people invest in sewing machines or a larger set of tools, but keeping it small won't hold you back. Two books to consider: Making Leather Purses & Totes, by Lisa Galvin The Leatherworking Handbook, by Valerie Michael Good luck as you get started, and don't be shy about asking questions. Best, -Alex

I might add that Springfield Leather carries the entire Tandy product line, plus items from other sources. They're great to deal with over the phone, and if you call them and explain what you're interested in, I'm sure they'll be glad to help. http://springfieldleather.com/store/

Best of all, you don't have to dye or finish it -- which is a significant benefit for larger projects. I admit I don't experiment around much with different types of leather... I'll have to check this stuff out next time I'm in Tandy. Thanks for the idea.

Looks good!

Nice design. Very attractive.

It may be quick and dirty, but it's very elegant. Nice job there!

You've been busy! Great work, as always. Very unique style.

CW, leather dye is intended for vegetable-tanned leather -- i.e., the pale, stiff variety of leather. Upholstery leather is chrome-tanned and pre-finished, which unfortunately means you're stuck with the color you have now. Maybe someone here has experimented with dyeing upholstery leather, but I can't imagine the results were very good...

Those look great. Keep up the good work!

Sweet.

I think it looks GREAT. Can't wait to see the finished product!

On this topic, I might add that I had the recent pleasure of placing my first order with Springfield Leather Company. I was looking for some items that Tandy didn't stock. I called SLC and the young lady I spoke with was extremely courteous and efficient; we set up a new account in about two minutes. Even though one of my items was a special-ordered C.S. Osborne tool, I received my shipment in only five business days via UPS. Their selection is impressive, with an extensive list of items from Tandy, C.S. Osborne, Hermann Oak, Chaylor-Fenneli, Artisan, and others. Perhaps the most helpful thing is that they're willing to assist hobbyists like me in dealing with larger wholesale firms like Ohio Travel Bag -- or help find special items I'm looking for. I apologize if this post is starting to sound like an advertisement, but I think it's important to give credit where it's due. Kevin and his crew were a real pleasure to do business with. -Alex

Freak, I bow to your mastery of figure carving! I see a very strong "prehistoric caveman" influence in your line art. Simply superb. As for the cuffs, well what can I say... Beautiful design and outstanding color, as usual. Kudos!

Great color. Super construction on that bag, too.

Those are very sharp! Congratulations!

Great job. And hand-stitched? My, you're a glutton for punishment.

Hi, C.M. - Welcome to Leatherworker.net. It sounds like you have many of the basic items needed to get started. Here are some other tools and supplies to consider: an awl, a mallet or maul, an edger, a skiver, an edge slicker, a head knife (or leather shears), a stitching groover, and snap and rivet setters. I'm guessing I missed a few things, and maybe others will chime in. Good luck! -Alex p.s. Here are a couple of members from Utah... http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=23745

I really like the Hawaiian saddle. Very unique and well-done!

Quality construction. Should last a lifetime!

Sweet!

Wow, I like it too. Nice job!

Mike, I've referred your thread to our Sewing Machine Moderators. I'm hoping they'll be able to weigh in with some potential solutions.

Willie-Joe, thanks for the introduction. Make yourself at home!