JayEhl

Definite sculpture art. Frame it, hang it and put it in your office. Or it'll make a really nice Christmas gift. But I would keep it, myself.

I dig the handle on the spine. I always liked that feature on my (cordura) bible cover. I've never added a zipper to anything but I do want to try it. I like your paint job, too.

Wow, very noticeable. If I were to see these on a table along with a bunch of other crafting type stuff (thinking arts/crafts fair) I would definitely do a double take. I also like the idea of a green edge. Well done!

Hi, It's been over a year since you posted so sorry if the reply is now inappropriate. Have you sold out? Just curious as I noticed what looked like alligator skin or is it just an impression on a chrome finish? Thanks in advance. ~JL

Frodo, a sign of a good learner is a reflection statement like you just stated: "If I do make it again, .... " I need to be more brave and work with zippers on a project that I've been putting off. Good job!

Awesome first start. I wish my first round looked as good!

Thanks for the definition. I was think that describes this group, about our passion for leather work, thinking about it, working with it, teaching it, mentoring, and just plain fellowship! #leathercrafter1%er ~JL

Stitch color and works really pop!

oh man! That first photo made me do a double take! Outstanding!

Yea, I'm still very much the novice/hobby-ist and am in total awe of the work that is done with other tools that are other than manual ones such as your creaser, skivers, heck even a sewing machine! I am saving my pennies and adding my next 'toy' to my wish list which I think is going to be a skiver since I've ruined so many pieces with my 'hand skiver' or an air brush painter. I'm also pretty scared of buying really expensive leather right now until I feel comfortable with a process. I did bite the bullet to buy some really nice 'pull up' leather that I made a badge ID holder and have enough to make a couple minimalist card holders. I guess that's the best practice, - that is, practice on more inexpensive leather to get the steps and processes down so I won't get frustrated with more expensive leather. But one thing for sure, I learn something each time I finish a project and learn so much from people like you and others on this board! Thanks! ~JL

yea, those colors snap. But I've always been curious. What does 1% er mean? (serious question)

The black and pink combination is always a great contrasting colors. But the lines you created with the creaser; now that set the whole thing off as PROFESSIONAL!! I thought that came from the factory it was so evenly spaced. Just a marvelous functioning artwork.

Dig the monogram logo work. Looking at the background works is what all the cool kids on social media call 'oddly satisfying'. :D ~JL

I got started with a starter kit from Tandy. Probably alot of us did. It helped to solidify my thoughts about the craft and is now a passion. can't say I've 'replaced' any tools but I sure have gotten some better ones. And with many crafts, the more you practice the better you get. And, also, like with many hobbies, you can spend as little or as much as you want. But in all seriousness, coming from a leather noob, too. Welcome! I learned so much just by searching the forums. An unbelievable amount of treasure from really knowledgeable and helpful folks from all over! ~JL

Very chillaxin' doggy

Man that would be cool to hang that along with a tool belt that I friend uses for his construction job!

I think as with many things, skill sets improve with practice. But if you make a gift such as this, I don't think anyone would be bothered by any imperfections. I think they'll be glad you thought enough of them to make them something from scratch. A leather craft gift such as this is truly something that comes from the heart. :) ~JL

Now THAT is a tool rack. Totally awesome and somehow oddly satisfying.

Man, I totally dig the work...and your tool rack! You should post a picture of that, too!

Adding pro tip from Don Gonzales that I use: add more than one line parallel line using a very light pencil marker. That way you can tell if your lines are going to go off kilter and stays true. The additional pencil marker doesn't show (for me) as I generally dye/antique it anyway. Just thought I'd throw in my newbie skill. ~JL

No disrespect to you but yea, they've already diagnosed that in me. I'ts called the Dunning-Kruger effect. LOL! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunning–Kruger_effect ~JL

Ah, now I understand. I never knew these existed! I unsure if I want to invest in something like that although these aren't too terribly expensive. I have an old Dremel, though so I may consider it. I am going to clamp it down to my work bench somehow and see if I can attach a burnisher, first. Thanks for the tip!

Man, that must be one cool diaper bag!

Man that is a very cool random design. I like it.