tanda4

Wondering about their punches.

I know some people on the board are gifted with woodworking and turning.

To start I will be using .8mm-1mm thread. Is one size better for this? Do I need to use thinner thread for 8-9 stitches per inch?

I want the the seam to be thinner than the rest. I see skivers, french bevelers, skiving knives, and head knife. Which of these would be best to shave off the 1/4" I'm looking to do?

Or something else?

I’m new to leatherwork and have been researching, learning, and practicing for approximately 3-4 weeks. I’m very impressed with most everything. I frequent many forums relating to photography, cars, home theater, etc. and Leatherworker.net has the most friendly and helpful members out of any forum I have been a part of. I wanted to share my experiences with purchasing from the several vendors. This is just my two-cents regarding my experiences so far. Springfield Leather – Placed a few orders with Springfield for tools, supplies, and leather. Orders have been shipped the same day and email correspondence was always quick. I requested a return and was promptly issued a return authorization. I will shop with Springfield again. Tandy Leather Factory – The only company I haven’t been completely satisfied with. The tools are extremely cheap in quality, but have the prices that match. The store I have been to has so-so employees that are not readily willing to answer questions. I will shop here again, but it will not be my first or second choice. Bruce Johnson – Bruce is willing and has answered any questions I had. He is extremely prompt in email correspondence and shipping was quick. I will be ordering from him again soon. The Thread Exchange – Today I placed my first order for hand sewing waxed thread and the order was ready for shipment in a few hours. I sent an email requesting samples of several colors and I quickly received an email saying “I would be happy sending out samples”. I haven’t received my order yet, but I’m sure I will be satisfied. Abbey England – Yesterday I placed an order for 2 rolls of Tiger Thread. I haven’t received the products yet, but even though the time difference email correspondence was extremely quick and the product was shipped the same/next day. Maverick Leather – From the recommendation of Bruce Johnson through searching on Leatherworkers.net, I placed an order with Maverick Leather for 2 sides of Horween leather. I talked with Erin and she took time to explain the different types of leather available and helped me choose what would be best for me. The leather was shipped the very same day and arrived within one week. I will be ordering more within the next few days. Ohio Travel Bag – I have not purchased yet, but plan on it. Email correspondence was quick and prices seem pretty good. Hopefully website ordering will be updated, but not really an issue. Jeremiah Watt – I placed an order for several tools and they shipped out quickly. The tools are beautiful and arrived sharp and ready to use. I plan on buying more from Jeremiah Watt. The only problem is the website that desperately needs updating. Booth & Company – I have not yet placed an order, but plan on purchasing a Dixon Pricking Iron and a few other tools soon. Email correspondence with Ken Chapman was very quick and answered all of my questions.

I just added it to my cart.

How are he edges done in multiple colors and so clear and shiny? Picture borrowed from Niwa Leather http://www.niwaleathers.com/_src/sc1237/sign.jpg

I can't decide which manufacturer to choose. As a hobby do I choose the least expensive or should I go higher end? Is there some tools not to go cheap on? Is there a huge difference between Weaver, Dixon, Tandy, Springfield, Osborne, etc.? Or even the Douglas, Barry King way. I plan on making smaller leather items such as wallets, key fobs, small bags, and camera straps. Tools I would like to purchase include (probably not at the same time): Oblong Punch (1/2" & 1") - I may be able to get away with just the 1/2" Oval Punch (1/2", 1", & 1 1/2") English Point Punch (1/2", 1", & 1 1/2") Multi-Size Strap End Punch Pricking Iron (most likely will have to be Dixon) Overstitch Wheel Scratch Compass Groover Edgers (1 or 2 sizes) Knife (1 or 2 different) Are the punches considered a little less of a worry by the material they are made from as long as the edge is sharp. Thanks for your opinion.

It is for hand-sewing. Possibly something that is readily available in the US?

I would love to attempt this. I'm just trying to think how to work the bottom of the bag.

Only looking for 25 or so.

Thanks.

What is your favorite brand of leather working tools?

Knipex has a rotary punch, one of the best names in pliers... http://www.knipex.com/index.php?id=1216&L=1&page=group_detail&parentID=1369&groupID=1414

1st Time Poster - ..........MY WORRIES SHOULD HAVE BEEN WITH CUTTING........... I'm sure this aspect 17th that I didn't realize I would have a problem with. I cannot cut a straight line to save my life. I Tried and wasted leather with utility knife, rolling knife, x-Acto, and Scissors. I also, tried metal rulers, with and without healing mats. I even tried to clamp down the ruler to the piece I was cutting. Something always turns out a little off. How am I suppose to get 2 identical pieces for a wallet if I can't cut one straight line? I'm not choosing difficult projects. Just keychains, minimal 2 pocket card case, simple camera strap, etc. Any help or tips?