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Hey leathercrafters of reddit! I'm a complete beginner in leatherworking and my end goal is to make a cute purse for my spouse, watch straps and a dopp kit for myself. I have watched videos and I'm reading about the basics, and I want to set my foot in there. I would greatly appreciate tips, tricks, advice, maybe even links? I have a budget of about 200$ to begin with and hopefully make it with the purse, or at least. In terms of tools, I only own rulers a cutting mat and small knives (like x-acto knives). In geographical terms I'd rather use European suppliers to aid with lower shipping costs to me. To be specific, she likes leather products from the big brands, with finishes like the Saffiano, Epi and Epsom leathers. I know it's standardized leather and I might have to put a good penny on it by itself? I'd like to make a lightweight bag, yet have it hold shape and stiffness. I want to add a lining too, but I went lost in all the options. the watch straps I'd like are simple, yet I want them to be comfortable to wear in terms of material that lays on the skin. I'd like to make a dopp kit that js waterproof (or at least splash proof) lined with something soft. I know I'd need a mallet, pricking irons, needles, thread, probably edge dying and finishing supplies, and probably some more tools and supplies. Is there a type of leather, supply, thread, tool etc to avoid? Anything I can cheap out on? Things that are worth the investment? I'd appreciate any and all inputs! Thanks in advance!

So been chugging along, finished a holster or two and a couple of dopp kits, and a replacement belt for the oldest's favorite buckle.....next is a western style holster/belt...hoping i'm ready for this one...kinda fudged up on the holster for my little bro...forgot he's a lefty...

Greetings from the Czech republic. Today I completed the Dopp Kit with an attempt of two tone dying :-D Tell me what you think about it and I will be happy for every suggestion for improvement.

Just a Dopp Kit: Veg Tan 3/4 oz, lined pig skin.

We're doing tboyce's Dopp kit pattern for February: http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=60062W