tazzmann

I made some of these of various sizes using scratch Awls from Harbor Freight. I picked 'em up for a $1 a piece. Took them to the bench grinder and then to the polishing wheel. DO make sure you make the heel a long one, it really does help in NOT leaving a mark when you lift. Polishing is a must as well as it makes it easier to slide the tool on the leather without leaving marks behind from the scratches from the grinding wheel. Sharpening them has been a no-brainer. They are already somewhat heat treated and I just keep them sharp on a strop, or if they are really bad, I use my fine grit on my sharpening stone. So far, they have worn well.

Welcome John! I too am from the Northwest (Vancouver, WA). Nice to see you here!

I had thought about just re-lacing it, but just can't bring myself to it. The leather is starting to crack and the interior is starting to fall apart. In the bill area is ostrich leather, which seems to be holding up the best, but is still really worn. The wallet is 25 years old and I think I would like to put it in my display case next to my knives. Plus, it gives me an excuse to make another one. I have a really good deer scene I want to try out.

Well, my newest stuff went out the door before I could get the camera charged, but thought I would throw these in... The wallet has been with me since I was 14 years old. It was given to my by a good friend who not only taught me how to hunt, but got me started in leather working. This is going to retire next month as I am going to make my own. The "Knife sheath" (don't laugh) was my very first try at leather working (When I was 14 as well).

Found the camera last night. (Sorry Beav, not in the back of the closet) I will take some shots as soon as I get the battery charged.

Thanks for the welcome, I look forward to chatting with you fellas! WaG35, so you must be up in the Woodland area? I am actually over off of 164th Ave and Mill Plain.

I still do wallets. Checkbooks seem to be fading out, but the 6 ring address/calendar/note binder things are still doing ok, though they are fading due to phone that do everything. Belts will never go away!

Hello all, I am a leather worker (part-time) for the last 20 years from Vancouver, WA. A friend of mine showed me how to work on leather when I was 19 and I got the bug then and there. I still have a wallet that he made me and carry it around every day. When I find my camera again, I will take some pictures of it and some of MY work. I am mainly into belts, wallets, and knife sheaths, but have thought about making some quivers and rifle cases. I have a small set-up in my garage with a 1 pound anvil permanently in place for setting snaps and such & a 5 pound anvil for tooling. I hope to be able to add my knowledge and experience to this wonderful site! Mike