LatigoAmigo

Letter size paper (8.5 x 11 inches) is shorter and wider than A4 size paper (8.27 x 11.69 inches). What you can do is print it at 100% to a legal size sheet of paper (8.5 x 14 inches). I print to legal size paper all the time, and typically it involves adjusting the printer's paper tray.

Not sure if sturdier, but can be purchased separately. Right now at Amazon, the tips are 2 for $3.99.

I build the handle around a piece of stretched-out bungee cord, so that when I release the tension, the cord fills the void inside the handle.

I've imagined that the leather could stretch and cause the cap to come loose, so I've always punched a hole slightly smaller than the shaft on the snap's cap, then use a snap setter so that the cap is set with very even pressure. I'm not sure it did any good, but I sure felt better about it.

Very similar to some Horween latigo that I picked up from Maverick Leather some years ago. My leather appears to be a little lighter in color, but the grain on this looks very much like yours.

I understand your issue, I've faced the same problem, but I'm curious... what do you mean that "snaps wear out the leather"?

Latigo leather (combination-tanned, both veg- and chrome-tanned) comes close to matching your description. Over the years, I've purchased latigo from different sources, and find that finishes range from very firm to very supple. Your hide makes me think of the latter. What throws me off is its size. Maybe you could show us a photo.

You can access those settings from Illustrator when you "Save As" a PDF, then in the PDF dialogue box you can set the marks and bleeds. I never would have imagined that would have solved the problem. Thanks for sharing.

Interesting...

I print from PDF's quite often, and have had similar problems with my color HP printer, where objects might print somewhat randomly on the page. I have never experienced this same issue with the HP monochrome printer so, in my case, the problem is the printer. I resolved the problem by exporting the file as a JPEG and opening it in Illustrator, then save it as a PDF, which, because it has now become a bit-mapped image, prints correctly. Sure hope you find this helpful. I have attached the bit-mapped PDF. Slim Pocket Wallet exported as JPEG.pdf

Have you considered contacting Maverick Leather? They carry a selection... https://maverickleathercompany.com/product-category/horween-leather/horse/

The Hide House in Napa carries a wide variety of cow. You might call them and chat about your needs, they are very knowledgeable. https://www.hidehouse.com/

I use Adobe Illustrator for all of my pattern design, but it has a steep learning curve and a high price. The issue for designing with a computer is that typically you can only print to a letter-sized sheet of paper. For patterns larger than that, there is a feature called "tiling" where you can print to several pieces of paper and tape them together. Sounds easy, but it is not always easy to properly align all of the pieces of paper.

The words look to be etched with a laser cutter.

You will want to keep in mind that to engrave, the laser burns off the top layer of leather, and the results are not always very durable. I had stars in my eyes when I bought my 100 watt laser cutter, but have had to dial back my ambition due to the vulnerability of the engraving. It looks good, but does no wear well. And the look is always dark due to the burning process, but then that can look pretty good.

I settled on this one from Campbell-Randall. The price was fair, and I liked the way the lever works... you can really control the pressure. Keep in mind that the dies come separately. I use it for double-capped rivets and snaps. I got those dies from Ohio Travel Bag where they sell a wide selection. https://campbell-randall.com/product/italian-twist-press-no-3 https://ohiotravelbag.com/

I used to have that problem until I got myself a rivet setter. Since then, no problems at all!

Absolutely stunning. Very nice work.

I sure do.

I count my blessings, believe me.

You might take a gander at The Hide House. I go there all the time and see them shipping hides all over the world. Plus, they are really nice folks. https://www.hidehouse.com/

I have had pretty good luck with what is referred to as "bonded leather." Here is a link to an Etsy site that sells it, and there are others. The big advantage is that the material is thin, strong, even color and relatively inexpensive. I have used it successfully many times. https://www.etsy.com/listing/757729222/salpa-bonded-leather-reinforcement?ref=landingpage_similar_listing_top-3&frs=1

I leave the strips in the dye and stir them around at least 3 times, making sure that I get full coverage, then I leave it in the dye for at least 1/2 hour to get full penetration. Then I hang it up to dry. I leave whatever dye is left in the container (I use a large jar) for future dipping.

So what are you making with it? Have any pics to share?

I'm interested. What makes it great?