SDP

Hello MolyCW, I prefer to learn new things the traditional way however once I become profishent the possibility of using a machine may be consider. My intention are small step first then refinement which it's always better to move slow and learn the basics well before make a large investment on equipment. With that said you could invest in a hand powered cobbler machine which are all over YT for about $125.00 to start machine sewing.

SaddleBags, Thank you for your suggestion, I plan to start small with wallets, sheaths and belts. I am currently working on hand stitching and working on the basics hopefully moving onto hand carving and stamping once I have gained some proficient skills.

Once again thank you, I will post my progress and hopefully receive some constructive criticism.

First and for most I want thank you all! I appreciate all the advice, Zulu dog thanks again for the break down on those items and I have already taken your advice on the polishing. My first project is going to be blade covers and I hope to move onto belts with an interest in bags once I have become proficient with needle and thread. I'm planning to only exchange the Fine Diamond chisel to the ones mentioned above, as for the other Items I will keep them. I apologize for not mentioning that I had purchased wing dividers and some Veg. tan Leather (shoulder & Belle). I already had a few utility knives and hammers plus a cutting mat. Also many of the YT video's I watch recommended Al Stohlman books on Hand Sewing Leather and LeatherCraft Tools would be helpful in getting me started, so I purchased both of them. My next project will be a belt so I'm looking to purchase Punches, rivets with setter and strap cutter (wood). I understand there are two kinds, the one built here in the states is the better of the two. Again it's a pleasure to be a part of this community and thank you all for your guidance. I look forward to sharing my progress with you all.

Thanks SaddleBags, I'm in orange county. I hope to get some assistance especailly with leather selection and what tool will benefit me the most.

So I'm addicted, unfortunately I have rush out and made some not so smart purchases from my local Tandy however I haven't used any of the Items and now looking to make the right discussion bye reaching out to you. Should I return the item's below and purchase some Leather craft tools as they are priced better and I believe my local Tandy has poor customer service, so I'm looking to do business with LC, SLC or Rocky Mountain Leather supply. Understand I'm not trying to bash Tandy but my experience locally has not been wonderful. Below are the purchases I have made (ruffly a $100.00) and looking to return, please let me know your thoughts as I'm a new to leather work and trying to make the right choices. Stitching Awl 1-1/4 blade P# 31218-01 Edge Beveler size 2 P#8076-02 Fine Diamond Chisel 8 prong - 3.5MM P# 88057-08 Fine Diamond Chisel 2 prong - 2.5MM P# 88055-02 (Payed for a 3.5MM and was given a this one) Carriage hand sewing thread - 0.55 mm x 91.4 m Double wood slicker - P# 8121-2

Hello everyone, I hope you are all doing well. I have just completed a few small hand stitching project and have built a stitching pony. I hope to get some much needed leather assistance from all of you, looking forward to improving my leather work and hopefully get a better understanding on how to purchase the correct leather and avoid buying unnecessary tools and products.