Hi to all,
I'm a first time contributer to any forum whatsoever so please forgive me if I miss some protocol. I've been carving leather for about two years now. I developed a nice relationship with the manager of Tandy Leather in CT, so naturally all my tools are from them. I do pretty good work but I always wondered if I purchased "quality" tools from a real tool maker if it would make a difference. I could afford to spend money on good tools but I was reluctant to spend any if it really wouldn't bring me to the next level. After reading about the introductory special on your site from Ellis Barnes, I ordered the set. I reasoned that the cost per tool was a little over a dollar more than the Tandy tools if you bought the special. I just received them today and I would like to contribute my opinion. I first would like to add that most of my work is your typical "Tandy/Stohlman" style and I'm looking to start phasing into "Sheridan" style carving. The bevelers are fantastic. I hadn't beveled so easy before. They "walk" very easily and leave a clean track and sharp edge. They're angle is just was I was looking for. The seeders are clearer and require virtually no effort to imprint. You could stamp the center of a border without mashing down your edges. the border tool is also beautifully made. It is crisp, sharp edged and adds character which I wasn't really getting with Tandy's tools. However, for the type of work I do, I find that at least with the tools that were sent in the intro kit, some of Tandy's tools I still prefer. The veiner is sharp, very sharp. I'm not stamping saddle leather so it really is too "stark" for me. The same goes for the camouflage tool. Tandy's pear shaders "walk" easier in my opinion. There is a roundness to them that helps them roll, which Ellis's does not have. I haven't used the "thumbprint" yet but since I wouldn't have a tandy equivilant I'm sure that the professional made tool would be better. So the bottom line is that you really need to determine what your actual needs are for the style are are working in. As it is in many cases, what gives you the look you are after is the best tool for you. It could be a inexpensive mass produced tool or it could be a custom made to order tool. Each one has their place. Thanks for letting me share.
