I believe the edges are just part of their "look" - I believe all of their collars look like that. I personally don't like that and would finish it, but I'm just looking for the stones and the right leather at this point. I was looking into Springfield, just wondering if there was a place that would be cheaper if I'm buying a lot more stones at once. I do have a Michaels and a Hobby Lobby near me so I could actually see the colors in person, whereabouts in the store would I find them? I know the Michaels near me has a very limited "Leather" section, but I've never seen the stones near that area. As for the leather, what thickness would you suggest so that I can have a good bit of sturdiness without stretching?