I just want to say that this thread has been extremely helpful! I also just picked up the Tandy beginner kit and was starting to think I was just sucky with the swivel knife, but now I think it's the knife. Are there better companies/brands for swivel knives? Also, the info about properly casing has been helpful too. I've been watching tutorials on YouTube and so far no one has mentioned doing anything other than lightly wetting the leather with the sponge and letting it dry a bit.
And the idea about trades is awesome.