TomWisc

I have been using packaging tape, the clear tape you use when sealing up a box for shipping. I think it comes in 2' wide rolls. I just run as many strips as needed to cover the back of the piece I am tooling. Cover the back side while tooling and comes off pretty easy when you are done.

I am in the same boat as you, Ragingstallion. I have a few ideas that I am going to do. Drink coaster set of 4, portfolio cover for common size paper (8 1/2 x 11, 5 x 7), dog leash, simple tote bag.

Thanks, Grey Drakkon, I have not used that feature before but I will give it a try.

Thanks, fredk, I will try the print shop in town and see if they can enlarge it.

I have never made a bag and this pattern looks perfect for my first try at it. I see from Tom's post that the pattern is 36' " x 24". I don't have a plotter, just a basic printer. Just wondering what you all do to print the pattern out in full size with just a printer?

Very nice job! I like the white leather because it is different from the usual dark colors, very classy! If you care to share, where did you get the pattern for the bag?

OK, bullmoosepaddles, if I make another one I will let you know

Well, chrisash, I have never been on a cruise so I had no idea what kind of chairs they use. I just may keep the leather as it is, not sure, but not in a hurry to discard it either. I assume the chairs on a ship use some other fabric that can stand up to the weather, but I see what you mean that someone copied the idea and used leather.

Thanks for the dye ideas, YinTx. It is definitely different from what I have seen. I thought if it turned out ok after adding the missing seat support, I might try to make one from scratch. My woodworking skills are a bit rusty but it would be a neat project. The large backrest would be a perfect place to try some really exotic tooling! I am new to leather tooling but what a great place to be creative and do some really great art!

I purchased this leather folding chair today from on online ad. There is a wood seat support missing so the chair seat is low and looks like a kids chair. When I replace the wood seat support the chair will be the correct height and angle on the back will be better. There are no markings on the chair to indicate who made it. I am wondering if anyone has seen this type of chair? I bought it with the intention of replacing the leather. The marks on the back are not to bad but the seat looks like someone spilled a glass of wine or something to really stain the leather. I looks like the leather is Vegtan about 8 oz. I was wondering if any of you have cleaned leather and then re-stained the leather? Also wondering what type of leather would be good to use for the seat & back if I replace it?

I am looking for any information you all may have for making a home-made first aid kit. I buy Christmas gifts for about 15 family and friends and thought rather than get a shirt or sweater that many of them do not need I would make them family type first aid kits. I know most of what I want to include in terms of contents but would like to make a leather pouch, bag, portfolio type thing with everything easily displayed. I want it to be easily carried in a car, suitcase, or backpack for travel. Have any of you made something like this or have any suggestions?

Very nice! I would like to make a few camp chairs, would be a nice gift for my sons. Where did you get plans for your chair?

Thanks for making this video! You did a great job explaining the process that you use. And also thank you for no background music! I was going to try a watch band soon and your video will be so helpful. A question, I have a deer hide and wondered if that would be ok for the lining material? Thanks!

Opps! Just filed my bill...it was $62 for the stamp, $8 for the handle, $5 shipping. Total $75. A great stamp!

I recently had a nice 1" round brass stamp made be John at Leatherstampmaker.com. Quality product & great service. I think $52.00 plus a steel stamping handle for $8.00. Fast turnaround. I would definitely do business with him again!

Never saw anything like this! Fantastic pattern and great coloring! Definitely one of a kind. great job!

I am new to leather working and haven't done much hand stitching. But I really like the variation in color in your dye job. I think that looks great compared to a solid color. Did you use an airbrush to achieve the multi-color? Great job!

Amen, brother! Married 42 years to a great woman but paid dearly for my son's divorce!

Thanks for the idea Gary, that should work. Sometime I overthink the problem and don't see the easy way to get it done!

I just got an airbrush to apply stain and so far, I really like it. It uses so much less stain and for lighter brown colors it allows me to keep my project from getting too dark. I am making a few belts and would like to be able to apply a darker stain to the edges of the belts like a two-tone effect. Sounds like a simple things except it is really hard to keep my old hands from shaking too much. So, not to be discouraged, I know if I can come up with a slider jig to hold the airbrush I can adjust the airbrush angle to stain just the edge plus a little bit of the face of the belt. I have a few ideas how to make this jig but I was wondering if any of you have already made one and are willing to share your concept .

I am also new to leather working. Started a couple months ago. I have made a few simple belts and I wear the first belt I made every day. I would suggest making a belt without lots of fancy tooling and I bet your husband would be thrilled to wear a belt you made. Seriously, if my wife made a belt for me I would be over the top excited! You do not need many tools to do a belt. A buckle, a few rivets and riveting tool, a simple burnishing tool, and a bit of patience. My first belt was not dyed, just some neatsfoot oil. There are so many great leather workers on this site that is easy to get caught up in how to make your first project perfect. I mean no disrespect to all the experienced leather workers who contribute so much to this site. My suggestion, from a total newbie, is to give yourself a break and make something that you can complete is a relatively short time. Finish the project, hopefully your husband's belt. Then when you are ready, make your next belt. Maybe a little more involved. If your husband is like most guys, he probably never shops for a new belt. so you have a dedicated customer for the new things you make1

Thanks Dwight, that sounds like a technique I could do right now. I look forward to trying the spray idea but brushing is easier for me until I get an airbrush. Leather working is new to me and I do not have a bias one way or another regarding what technique is best. I expect everyone gets comfortable with their way of doing things and most likely there are different ways of achieving great results. It is so helpful getting different ideas. Most of what I have learned has been following ideas on this forum and some videos. Thanks again to all of you who give great suggestions.

Thanks Gary, I will try the resolene. I don't have an airbrush yet but do have a simple sprayer that I think will work. I was thinking about adding a liner but was worried it would be too thick. However, I think it is a good idea to try different techniques to decide what I like best. The liner would give the belt a great professional look. I am not looking to sell what I make, just be nice to make a few special things for my sons and a few friends. A little extra effort usually produces a better end result. Thanks for your suggestions. Tom

I guess the other question I should ask is do you all dye the flesh side of your belts? If not, do you apply any type of finish to the flesh side ?

Can Resolene be applies without using a sprayer?