ruthless

I presume the stitching on these collars is done by hand ... http://leerburg.com/flatleathercollar.htm Could you achieve the same finish with a sewing machine? If so, what kind?

Ok, thanks

Are Chicago screws as strong as rivets? I was told they're not. I'm making heavy duty dog collars, so I want to use the strongest materials.

I'm looking for some heavy duty double cap brass rivets [not gilt] with a 10mm post. Preferably from an Australian supplier. I've tried Birdsalls and Leffler already.

I hear you!!! I've found the that I like English cast brass dees as opposed to Taiwanese ones. There's quite a big difference, and as usual it's the more expensive one that I prefer! I wonder if it's the Taiwanese kind you're looking for, they're really thick. There's images of the two different ones here. It's a company in Australia, so probably no use to you unfortunately.

Thanks, that's my other money sucking hobby I've been doing it a bit longer than my leather stuff though.

Some dog collars taper, for example from 2" to 1", at the buckle. Is this done freehand or is there a special tool?

Especially the view of the inside with the black panel over the pink!

I made this collar for Angel yesterday. I bought a big piece of hot pink calfskin [?] for $5 ages ago and I was determined to use it somehow! It took several attempts to get it right and after she ran around in it for a couple of minutes [instead of sitting still for photos ] I realised it's going to get trashed and dirty very quickly and it'll break my heart. So, it's going to have to be for very special occasions only Although I probably won't make any more of these, I welcome any comments or criticism

I emailed Tandy and they sent me instructions, I'll upload them here in case anyone else needs them Thanks for the safety tips! I'll make sure my husband is careful not to cut himself

Does anyone know how to sharpen the blade on a Tandy Craftool High-Tech Leather Splitter?

Has anyone ever bought a franchise? I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask! I've been in touch with a company that doesn't have a franchise program, but is interested in having an Australian branch. Since I initially contacted them it took a while for them to reply* and I decided to go it alone, but now they've gotten in touch I need to decide what the pros and cons are. Basically they'd train me and I'd operate under their name. Other than that, I'm not really sure what to expect to have to give them either upfront or on an ongoing basis. How do franchises generally work? * They explained why and the reasons were completely understandable!

Nope, tapping gently. Maybe I'm punching too big holes

Thanks, that's what my husband suggested, but I didn't believe him!

I'll take a picture of the buckle next to the keeper and rivets so you can see what I mean.

That's AUD, the exchange rate's really bad for us at the moment. Even if I bought one from the US for $1200, with shipping and currency conversion, it may end up the same price!

There's no Tandy near me, I'm in Oz. When selecting the hardware I didn't have an option to choose things that matched Someone PMd me and suggested soaking the shiny bits in vinegar for a couple of days.

I'm not sure that's the problem, but I'll keep it in mind, thanks

Thanks Luke, but the AUD is too weak at the moment to buy from the US Thanks Tony, I've sent him an email.

I bought a pack of brass rivets and a keeper and they're very shiny. I also bought a buckle and two d-rings which are dull. The girl in the shop said it was because they'd been oxidised and the shiny stuff would eventually go the same way. I think it'll look odd to have them all together on a collar. Is there any way to dull down the shiny hardware?

I have another question! When I'm riveting collars I find it hard to get the rivets straight. I always measure carefully, but somehow they always end up crooked Is there any kind of template you can get or tricks of the trade to help me get them straight every time?

I'd like to buy a machine as handsewing this collar took me faaaar too long! The aim to is eventually make collars and leads to sell, and it won't be profitable if I spend so much time handstitching. My local leather shop suggested this one, it's an Amish made handstitcher. http://www.birdsall-leather.com.au/product.asp?id=91 However, it's the only machine they sell, so I was wondering is it the best one for me or should I look elsewhere? Possibly for something with a motor.

I've been getting my stuff from Birdsalls, I just thought there might be a more economical way. Especially if I bought in bulk.

I'm in Australia, so buying conchos and buckles from the US is expensive with the exchange rate the way it is at the moment. Does anyone know of anywhere in Australasia where I could get Tandy style conchos and good quality buckles and d's? I'd like to buy in bulk to save. ETA I'd like recommendations for US online stores too for future reference. Thanks

Thanks guys! Great to see my bumping was not in vain!! If anyone else has anything to add, please feel free :D