abn

Bill, here are two threads that may assist: http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=20171 http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=7144 I arrived at both by searching for the word "streak." For what it's worth, I apply Satin Shene using a damp sponge. Each coat is very light, and I do 2-3 coats. You can buff between coats, if you like. I hope your next try gives you the results you're looking for.

Superb work. I especially like the matching set.

Pleased to meet you, Bill.

Tandy sells Super Shene and Satin Shene acrylic finishes that will produce the shine you're after. Use Super Shene for a glossy finish, and Satin Shene for a satin finish. Always test on scrap before applying to your finished product!

Idahotim, if it's any consolation, I think most of us here have thrown out more leather than we care to admit. Natural materials have their own peculiar temperaments, and sometimes react in strange ways to techiques we think are common sense. Stick with it... Your next try will turn out better!

Tyler, denatured alcohol is a solvent that can be found at virtually any hardware store. Good luck!

I've never seen that stamping pattern before, but it's very attractive. Really nice dyeing job, too. Kudos!

Quality work there, Matt. The lettering is beautifully carved, the two-tone color scheme is well-done, and the construction seems so clean. Really nice job.

<--- I don't use this icon much, but I think it's very well-deserved in this case! Figure carving is hard stuff, and it looks like you've mastered it. And that hand-built guitar... Well, what can I say. A masterpiece. Congrats.

Fantastic job!

Cory, Super Shene and the other acrylics are only used on veg-tan leather that you dye yourself. If the leather you're using already has a color and a finish, you'll find that the Super Shene peels off because it's not able to absorb and bond. Good question! -Alex

Welcome! You have a very unique look to your leatherwork. Please make yourself at home, and post pictures! Regards, -Alex

Nice job! Wish I could master that arrowhead basketweave pattern... I've tried with poor results, guess I'll keep at it!

I love projects that involve recycled materials. This has got to be one of the best I've ever seen. Two thumbs WAY UP. -Alex

There's been some good discussion on Bick's... For anyone who wants to learn more, just do a search on "Bick" and the old topics will come up. Happy reading!

That's a heckuva nice bag there. Keep posting those pics!

Beautiful job!

Hmmm... I never considered the idea of adding one hole smaller and three holes larger. I always add two holes to either side of the correct size. But this is a good tip... In all the belts I've made for myself, I don't think I've ever lost enough weight to use the smaller holes. But I sure could have used an extra one on the end! (Especially if I'm wearing layers.)

So we can order from them, but we can't request a catalog? Maybe I'm confused: http://ohiotravelbag.com/catalog_request.htm

Thanks, Andy. I used the small end of a pear shader to create the texture.

Thanks, rdb. I can't take any credit for using the mulefoot on the border... TomSwede's excellent rifle sling gave me the idea...

Nothing special, just a few recent bread-n-butter items. Leather is Tandy's Live Oak, finished off with Eco-Flo dyes and Satin Shene. (And thanks to Freak for explaining how to do a color fade with Eco-Flo.)

Glad you found us! I know there are several books on the market that deal with handbag design. Typing the keywords "leather handbags" into Amazon will show you a few. They're good reading, and some books even have fold-out patterns. Your decision to start with a kit is a good way to go. Also, just wanted to make you aware of K.C. Leatherwerks just a few miles from the Knoxville Tandy. If Knoxville is in your proximity, K.C. offers a number of leatherworking classes that may interest you. Plus they stock some items (like Hidecrafter stamps) that Tandy doesn't. Make yourself at home, and fire away with any questions! Regards, -Alex

Lace, if your edge is really a mess, you may want to start with some fine-grit sandpaper, maybe 300 grit. Sand it dry first, and then wet the edge and sand it wet. That usually works for me when I have an unruly edge. I hope it helps you, too! -Alex

I'm not gutsy enough to try lacing yet, but it looks like you got the hang of it pretty quick! Nice work -- I'm sure the recipients were very pleased.