JRB

I think I've got it. The key for enough room is having your stitch lines the right distance from the outline of the gun. I would guess that forming both sides helps w/retaining the gun better? I was thinking you started w/a slight "pocket" already, to where the 2 pieces were not touching. I don't think that's what you want though. Having the larger outline will give you the space needed to form around the gun. Now to determine that spacing! I'm going to give the file folders a try. Maybe I should start with an auto first instead of a revolver. How do you get a sight channel in the holster so the front sight doesn't drag going in & out? Thanks guys! More questions to come I'm sure.

So if I glue & stitch the 2 together flat against one another I will still have enough room to get the gun in and mold it? I plan on having the cylinder and trigger guard inside.

I just picked up the Pro kit from Tandy tonight along w/needles, waxed thread and some cement. My first attempt will be a OWB pancake holster for a K frame revolver. I've read until I'm almost cross eyed and still am not clear on a few things. First, when you cut out your front and back pattern do you leave some "play" where the gun will ride or do you lay the front & back flat together and glue & stitch. Unless I am not understanding right you're laying the 2 pieces flat, glue & stitch, then wet mold to fit the gun.

What is a good substitute for durometer natural gum rubber when making your own press?

The pro leather kit from Tandy looks like what I'm looking for. Wish it had a list of what came w/it. Do you need a burnishing wheel/tool? PS - My first attempt will be for a K frame revolver.

Just for fun I would like to take a shot at making an IWB or OWB holster. In browsing thru threads here it looks like there is a wealth of info on how to make a holster so I think I can find all the how tos here. What are the must have tools for starting out? Where is the best place to pick up supplies & equipment. Can you get a package of tools as a "starter kit"?