Sylvia

Wiz: What about an old sewing machine which has a walking foot attachment?? I have a 2011 Brother CP7500 home machine that has a walking foot. I was able to successfully sew through 5 layers of 5oz pliable leather with the walking foot and a denim needle. ( I also have leather needles but this was just a test) The only thing I didn't like was the machine's max stitch length was a little shorter than I would have liked. I have an older singer too which I will probably use with a walking foot. As with most things one is only as good as the box of tools with which they work. But if I go out and buy yet another sewing machine I think the spouse will disown me. LOL!!

Hi David: I'm originally from the Roseburg area. I know that Paul at http://www.sodhoppers.com has a video apprenticeship available on DVD. I don't know if this is something you are interested in but the Course is $500. I would give my arm and leg to be able to do afford that. (maybe when I win the lottery?) Paul seems like a very friendly soul, so it couldn't hurt to give him a call. Maybe you and the gent from Gresham can lure him up to the big city for some private lessons? Couldn't hurt to give him a call, all he can do is say "No." right?

Ha ha ha Good one!

I had a Native American friend who chewed her stiffened hides to soften them. I mean she literally sat there with a caribou hide hanging out of her mouth for days! I must say the parka she made was fantastic and extremely pliable. I was envious but could never bring myself to chew hide like that.

Did you step on a pop top? As to the soles of these I'm wondering if Barge Cement mixed with Tire Dust from a re-tread operation would make an acceptable sole for these sandals. Heck, Nike' started with the founder using a waffle iron and some sort of rubber. I know this fellow in Winston, Oregon uses the Tire dust on his custom mocs and boots. http://www.sodhoppers.com

I think you've come up with a nice solution to a bad situation. It reminds me of the "nature" finishes we did back in the 70s where the depressions left by the stamps were left natural.