Firewalker

I use WC primarily and have ordered it from them directly a few times. It did take 2-3 weeks to get it. I originally got the lower quality hides from them because I was making smaller items. It was worth it to me for the next time to buy the higher quality hides the next time around. The cost was somewhat higher but the quality made it worth it to me. I don’t know how much you need or what weight, etc but I highly recommend Maker's Leather. The price is fair and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to ship. I ordered a hide of 4/5 on Monday and it arrived yesterday. Good people and pricing, great quality and excellent customer service. You can order what you want with a few clicks. Easy as pie. Check ‘me out if you haven’t. Scott

It seems like "craftsman" is a label that other people call you but you don't really call yourself. In the most pure sense of the word if you have built, made, crafted anything you are a craftsman. I also agree there are many who fit this title that are not that skilled at it. I too have wondered where the title comes from when you read "master leather worker" and I would also assume the title was given to an individual by their guild or maybe it is after receiving an award or some other high level recognition by an organization. I also agree with Jeff regarding someone doing xyz "for 40 years" yet it is still not in line with what you would consider decent work. I work in the medical field as my "day job" and I have encountered MANY people who justify their technique with their years of experience. I have been the bearer of bad news on occasion by letting them know they have been doing it incorrectly for x amount of years. I do not do this just to bash someone but I will do it if a patient's safety is at risk. The use of craftsman is too generic to get too bent out of shape over IMO. I have only done this for a couple of years this month and I am quite happy with the items I make and sell a lot of them. Does it make me some sort or craftsman, guru, master? Nope, I am just a guy who loves working leather, pushing my limits, still making mistakes and trying to get better every day. No label required for me. Be well all, Scott

Thanks. I underestimated my stamp buying addiction and outgrew it immediately. Oh well, it gives me a reason to make another one. This one is made of rock maple with mitered corners, CNC tool holes and Laser etching. It did a good job replacing my 2x4 I had before. Haha

What he said! I want one in a bad way and what Jeff said is exactly why. Having a perfect match on a belt or even the inside and outside of a wallet would be nice but using a 5 oz backer and 2 oz pockets would be a trick because they are likely from a different run, definitely a different animal etc. I am trying to to convince myself I don’t need one but it looks like I do. Also you asked about what to do with the split. It would make great insides for raised dog collars, watch straps, belts. I asked for my splits to be sent to me. They are yours after all. Just cost extra on shipping. Good luck!

Have you looked at Springfield Leather? I bought some caiman tails from there and I believe they have fish leather, toad, some snakes. Not sure on the gator pieces but it’s worth a shot. Cheers

The pricing is better across the board for everyone. I was on Elite and then business before. After the change I get most of my commonly purchased items at even less than I did before. I don’t buy leather from them but some other items I really appreciated the drop. No club to join... flat shipping rate... better pricing all around. I’m sure someone will still manage to hate on them anyway. Weeeee

I don’t know how fancy you are going for but if you like beauty and versatility you can’t miss by having Dave Swallow make you one. His work is remarkable and this is coming from a woodworker if 30 years. They are not cheap but they are worth it in my opinion. I made my own rack but have outgrown it.

Jeff that is a dang fine looking holster. Nice work!

Thank you for taking the time to share this. I have been curious how this was done. Cheers

Thank you. My current wallet is made from Dublin and I sure do like it. It feels good from the start and just gets better. Cheers

Thank you very much. I appreciate the comment. Thanks brother

Thank you. Sure will!

Thank you very much. I am pleased with it so far. I got the frames ordered today so hopefully I will wrap it up soon. Cheers

Yes that is correct. It may be a little heavy for some but it worked out in this case. Thank you!

Here is how that turned out. Thanks again for the link. Take care all

Thank you. I agree it’s a little thick for me as well. The stamping wasn’t difficult and looked good initially. It just doesn’t hold like one might want, at least without the use of hot stamping. The most difficult part was getting the thick stitching to lay down on the single layer section without puckering/shortening the leather. Thanks for the comment. I appreciate it Scott

Thank you! It is two layers 12/3 to keep the sag out of it. I used natural bobbin thread to blend in. I appreciate the comment.

Here is a work in progress for my Wife. It’s been enjoyable to figure out the puzzle and build order. Still trying to find frames to close the ends.

Here is a wallet I finished a little while back (side note: I won’t be stamping Dublin again) Tell me what you think!?!?!

This was the first belt I stitched on the CB3200. Had to move the keeper closer than expected to stay off the letters when in center hole. Overall I like it. He was pretty dang excited about it. Cheers all!