Hedge

A picture would help. But, if I'm visualizing correctly, all you need to do is leave sufficient length on your standing ends so you weave them into your braid pattern on the back. Do it all the time on appliques. It won't come out.

Thanks! Yeah, iPhone is Mac based. Been out of the programming game for a few years now and re-familiarizing myself with another OS is not appealing. :brainbleach:

You're welcome, red. It's based on a spiral math equation. So, the more precisely you cut, the more accurate it will be. In any case, it'll get you in the ball park.

Dwight, Just a recommendation not to use suede for a liner. It tends to collect dirt and will end up putting scratches on your rifle.

Hi Karen, Welcome to the forum! It's been awhile since I've been on (we have our little ranch here, too) Busy, busy. I'm not as advanced as some of the rawhide braiders, here. But, I can share some of my experiences. I use a Lace Master for all my cutting and prep. (stock up on razor blades...rawhide uses 'em up quickly). Some people just use their thumb and a sharp knife, but that takes lots of practice. You'll need to work with finding the proper tempering for the rawhide so that it cuts easily without stretching. It's not something someone can tell you. You will have to get the feel of it from actually trying it. Also, don't get frustrated and just yank it through when you hit a hard spot . Go easy and pull smoothly. Develop a steady and consistent procedure. Beveling your strings will take practice, as well, to keep the string positioned properly for a consistent cut. If it gets hard to cut and the temper is correct, adjust your blade for a fresh edge or replace it. Don't try cutting with a dull blade just to finish. You'll ruin the string. Also, watch your blade for deflection as you draw your string through. If it's anything but vertical, it's getting dull or you are not pulling straight. As to braiding rawhide, not much different from 'roo except to be careful not to stretch it out of dimension as you braid and keep the temper. I don't know what the video you have contains, so, I'm not sure what to add. Except, be patient; work slowly at first. You can always re-temper the rawhide when it starts to dry out. I'm sure you'll get plenty of help from the more experienced rawhide braiders here. Good luck and post some pics of your progress!

You're getting better. No doubt about that. The pineapples just need a more symmetrical foundation. They'll get better with practice. I was looking at what CWR said about the beveling. Might be my eyes, but I don't see any hair side bevels. Rawhide should be beveled the opposite of leather; on the hair side. Hedge

Thanks. Yup, long commute alright. Retired early just to get out of the rat race there. Came back home where the deer and the antelope play, etc. (we won't talk about the winters). Sure has done wonders for me. No stress, horses to ride, lots of room for my dog, fresh air and quiet nights. Good luck to ya. I hope things work out the way you want. Hedge

Hey, megabit. Next time you stop in at the FV Tandy store, say hi to Rosie for me. I used to teach the braiding class at her shop. Hedge

Bevel the flesh side. The hair side edges will soften and blend in when you braid with it. Hedge

Myriam had an idea for a tool rack. She's always wanting to build things, so I showed her how to use the drill press and hand plane. Here's what she came up with. For a first wood project, I think it came out pretty slick. I'm thinking of having her make another for me. I have a simpler construction in mind, but basically the same look. Hedge

Congratulations, Tom! Here's hoping this brings you fame and fortune! (things like this never seem to happen at an opportune time.) Hedge

You're very welcome. It's great to see such enthusiasm!

Maybe this will help.