MarshalWill

The design looks very usable. Congrats. Looking forward to hearing how you like it.

Thank you, Bruce. I suspected they were. They're nice looking tools.

Bruce, I see 4 Gomph French Edgers in your inventory. Are those originals?

You may want to contact Lonnie Height, who is running the show now at Gomph-Hackbarth. I talked to him about a year ago and he was still selling tools. 520-642-3891 or on his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/people/Gomph-Hackbarth-Tools/100021212726476/ . He might be able to answer your question.

I like the simple tooling technique you used. Looks mighty good.

Nothing beats a good hand made tool. That one looks to make a perfect stitching hole.

Outstanding straps! Super work on all of them. Very nice detail work.

I use a 1' x 1' piece of marble for a lot of my tooling. It has worked well so far but it is developing a fine crack across the middle. I also have a large slab of slate I use for larger pieces. It's pretty solid but I don't dare hit really hard on it. Your idea of quartz is a good one but like you mention, it's thinner. I have been tempted to get two slabs of quartz bonded together to make a thicker piece. I'll probably pursue that one of these days.

I use oil dyes, mostly Fiebings or Lincoln. I add alcohol to get the shade I want. Before I apply the dye, either by dipping or wiping (heavy coats when wiping), I wet the leather with alcohol first. I never get blotchy finishes doing it this way.

I like the little round knife but with those points it would wear out my pocket in a hurry. Heck, keys alone do that. LOL

Those are most interesting. I can see why folks like them.

This is what quality leather is about. It's the real reward.

Looks good. The magnet on it could also be used to hold your awl.

A fine bit of workmanship, there! Good job.

I have one of those and use it as a 'push bevel' but draw it towards me. It's tempting to cut it down and fit it in a swivel knife.