MarshalWill

Dying the background would certainly do the trick. It wouldn't even have to be very contrasting, either.

Very well done. Looks realistic, which takes a good eye and touch with the tools. If you want to subdue the background stamping, could you go over it lightly with a modeling spoon?

Good information. I generally follow Bruce's rule(s) depending on other variables, of course. rktaylor, my all favorite border stamp is the same Hackbarth one you show on the left. I have a few others but that one I use more than others.

I use Jeweler's files along with what ever else will give the desired result. Here's a thread on how I made one stamp.

Your laser-made stamp looks to be good. Yes, if you want the impression to stand out more antiquing would certainly do the trick. For comparison, here's a stamp I had professionally made and the impression it makes. This one is 1-1/4" long. You may be onto a good sideline, as well.

You do have a good product idea there. I particularly like the 'hotel' designs. Especially the HOTEL CALIFORNIA one. Those should really catch some interest. I also like traditional carving and stamping but the laser does give a texture not possible otherwise. I hope they work out well for you.

Great. Thanks.

That looks like a mighty fine knife. The shape is much like one I have that works good except that it doesn't hold an edge well. Does he have a website or phone number for those who don't have a FB account?

Mine have curved blades but that doesn't mean those are best. They're just what I have and am used to. The one with the hole in it is much like using a round knife with the points cut off. I like the control I get with it. I have used straight blades, too and they work fine but my preference is a curved one. The angled one is good for running along an edge and the other is good for other thinning tasks like the end of a strap or belt. I suspect that there isn't any best one, just what you get used to and like using. If I didn't have a good knife for the job, I'd try one of the Osborn leather & skiving knives or one like them. I think the Japanese make some pretty good knives for the money. The main thing is to keep it sharp so there's no drag when you cut with it. Ebay would be a good place to look for used ones. Amazon lists a bunch of inexpensive imported ones but there's no guarantee those will be good enough steel to properly hold an edge.

Lately I've started using magnets to hold my most used knives. Quick access and in a box, dust free. This box is what I made years ago when it would hold most of what I needed. Not so any more but I still keep the box for some things.

That's almost too simple. Thanks.

Looks good. Clean and functional. I also love that 1911. They're a great piece. How is it to draw without the toe being anchored to your belt or anything?

Your choice to go with the Tandy starter set is a good one. I did that many years ago and still find myself using some of those first ones.True, I've added a whole lot of other stamps over the years but still find myself using a few of those first ones.

Pastor Bob posted a photo of a Chartermade skiving knife. I find that type of knife the easiest to use. Pushing gives much better control than pulling or working sideways. Here are photos of two I made but you can find manufactured ones of both designs. The one has a hole in it because I made it from a circular saw blade. Of course, the other one is also made from a saw blade, possibly the same one.

Looks like a very usable design. Nice work. Great wood, too.