mjhayesleather

PeterD, I did exactly what you did but not with the same results. My hook did not flare on the end like a snap does, the shaft just compressed. I have tried two brands of hooks but maybe I need to look for one with a thinner walled shaft. Do you remember who you purchased your boot hooks from? Thanks for the help. -Matt

Thanks Indy.

Luke, I already tried line 20, 24, durable dot and eyelet setters but none worked. Thanks for the input though.

Does anyone have a good method of setting boot hooks without the use of a press? Is there a handheld setting tool available or something I could fabricate? I would really appreciate any of your ideas. –Matt

Thanks for the help Tom. Thats a great site. -Matt

Beautiful job Tom. I really like all the braiding, that main seam is amazing. I have done very little braiding myself but I would like to learn. Any resources you can suggest? Keep up the good work. -Matt

If no one wants to trade, you can purchase just the female ends at Oregon Leather.

I purchased one of Bob Douglas' awls and blades a few years back and I love it. Bob's awls cost 3 - 4 times what others charge but they are worth every cent. All the handles are a little diffirent so if you can go to a show and try a few out you are more likely to get one that fits your hand perfectly. His awl is a copy of an old Osborne awl. A few times a year I see the Osbornes on *bay, so if price is a major concern and you can wait a while you may be able to save some cash. -Matt Hayes

I have made lots of these. On the single ones I make english points on the ends and us a line 24 snap in place of the rivets. This is a great way to use up scrap and try out new belt patterns. -matt