Hello all! I've been lurking around these boards for a while now trying to learn the basics so I wouldn't be that new guy. That said, I was hoping you'd be willing to check my homework as it were.
Note: Right now I'm mainly interested in the construction part of "historical reenactment" leather work. I have limited interest in carving right now especially since I want to get the basics down pat first.
Here's the shopping list I've put together through my studies:
Books I Have
Leatherwork Manual by Al Stohlman
The Art of Making Leather Cases by Al Stohlman
The Art of Hand Sewing Leather by Al Stohlman
Basic Tool Shopping List
(I already have a cutting mat, x-acto knife, and a utility knife.)
Awl
Overstitcher Set
Adjustable Creaser
Plastic Bone Folder (Would I be better off springing for a leather burnisher for my Dremel from the LaBarres? I've read good things about them.)
Edge Beveler (#2 to start)
Adjustable Stitching Groover
Mallet
3/16" Eyelet Setter w/Anvil
Line 24 Snap Setter
Rivet Setter
Rivet & Snap Anvil
Harness Needle "00" (2pk)
Material Shopping List:
Linen Waxed Thread
Bees Wax
Saddle Soap
Dyes, Paints, & Finishes: This is where I get confused. There are so many options and so many personal preferences out there that I've gone all paranoid. I've gathered a few pictures of dyes (?) and finishes that I like and I was hoping you all would be able to point me in a direction from there. The pic is attached below.
Other Things I've Come Across
Tandy can be expensive and iffy.
Springfield Leather Co. is a safe bet.
Poor quality leather = poor quality products.
Dipping leather to dye things gives you a quality coating (still reading about this one).
Okay, that's enough rambling out of me. If anyone could give me some pointers on my homework I'd really appreciate it. This seems like a great community and I hope to become a benefit to it. Thanks everyone!
