Hello all,
First off, allow me to thank each of you that keep this forum alive. The past week I have spent countless hours scouring threads attempting to learn what I could from all the posts(which I might add is like a free college course). That being said, I cannot get the search function to work, so I have just been perusing threads, my apologies if what I am asking has already been answered. I simply can't keep searching one by one, as I am looking to order everything sooner than later. My apologies if this seems long, I wanted to provide as much information as possible; and provide a little bit of who I am, since this is my first post.
Hi everyone. My name's Guiseppi. I'm 30 years old, a capricorn, and I'm looking to get into leatherworking!
The story-
A few weeks ago I looked into purchasing a scorecard holder for when I walk the golf course(think generic checkbook cover for those not into golf). I was astonished at how expensive the nice ones were, and began contemplating how difficult it would be to make one from scratch. I stumbled onto this forum and began researching, watching videos, etc. I think it is something I can tackle, I really am not concerned with how perfect it looks, function and knowing I made it is all I really seek. A few of the companies that made them also sold hand stitched cash covers(think single fold minimalist leather cover with o-ring to keep cash in place) and thought they would be pretty cool, too. My leather working will likely not extend beyond the aforementioned items and maybe an occasional billfold for family or friends as gifts.
Tool list-
Attempting to keep it to the minimum, I should have almost any tool imaginable outside of leather tools(my dad's garage/shop has a bunch). So any miscellaneous items, such as knives, mallets, etc., I already have access to. Ideally I would like to keep this under $100(not including leather or thread), with decent quality items. I'd rather spend a few extra bucks now and if I hate it, have some resale value.
Awl blade, diamond - Osborne or barry king - $10-$20
Awl blade, round - Osborne - $3
Haft - Osborne - $20
Needles - JJ - $8
Beeswax - free
Now the parts I'm a bit undecided on.
Overstitch wheel. Other threads have all kinds of suggestions as far as size and brand. I was leaning toward 8 spi, but am undecided if I should go 7 or 9; any suggestions on size, and brand? This seems to be the most expensive tool that I want(need?). I found a couple antique ones on ebay, but they are like $45ish. From other threads I am to understand that the multiple interchangeable wheels are not a great item?
Thread - I am likely going with Royalwood. It will cost $16 a spool, but am not sure what ply to go with for this application.
Skiver - Is this really necessary? The minimalist stuff I will be sewing I don't think I'll have to skive, but not sure.
Leather - I understand what I need (I think), and how much. My question is since these items are for myself and I am a beginner, any good suggestions as far as finding scraps or discount pieces that are big enough for my items and on the cheap? Also any suggestions as far as type of hide(goat, calf, etc.)? I am impartial to color, as I am kind of a funky person and typically clash, so odd colors are fine by me!
Any omissions you see from my list? Any items you would go a different direction with given my application and skill level? Any items you see there that you think I can get cheaper?
I think that just about covers it. I really appreciate any help you guys can provide, and your time.
Thank you again,
Guiseppi
