corter Report post Posted December 10, 2007 I bought some tools that have drastically increased to quality of my leatherworking this weekend, thanks to reading up on the boards. I got an edge beveler and one of those spacer wheel deals so my stitching is even, and I got some leather weld. now, i can glue my pieces down, round them, and lay out my stitching, which makes my work way way better! here's a little comparison of before/after with a simple cardholder. i'm working on 3 wallets right now that i'll post probably the end of the week when they're done. I'd love crit, i've only been at this a couple months so i want to learn before: after: Click here to see the new one bigger, you can see the details much better Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
abn Report post Posted December 10, 2007 Wow. Not much to critique. I love the pattern layout with all the curves -- really professional looking. And the contrasting mahogany color on the interior is a really nice touch. Most folks put the darker color on the exterior and sometimes leave the interior the natural color. But I really like the way you did it. About the only additional tool I'd suggest for your growing collection might be a stitching groover. Using one will allow your stitches to sit just below the surface of the leather, both protecting them and making your stitching line look even better. Tandy sells a couple of different types, and I have the adjustable one and the freehand one. One thing I'll say -- your work already has a distinctive look to it. It's obvious that you're taking the time to execute some unique designs. I really look forward to seeing more of your work. Be sure to post some pics of those wallets when done! Regards, -Alex Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Randyc Report post Posted December 10, 2007 Nice work, much improved! Now that your buying tools, your on your way. Randy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Don101 Report post Posted December 10, 2007 Wow what an improvment, that small investment has realy paid of to the look of your work, Don Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin King Report post Posted December 12, 2007 lookin good so far. One thing i'd recomend is a small set of wingtip dividers. If i had to go without mine, i'd quit. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
corter Report post Posted December 13, 2007 thanks! what do wingtip dividers do? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin King Report post Posted December 13, 2007 wingtips are useful for many things. In the case of your card holders, i'd use them to mark my stitch line by running them along the edge of the piece. Then i'd use them to mark my hole spacing. I have one of those wheels, but i have found the wingtips to be much more accurate. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
freak Report post Posted December 13, 2007 ***WARNING *** WARNING *** WARNING*** The reply you are about to read is a total and complete highjacking. After the highjacking you may return to your normal posting. You have been warned. Kevin, do you hand stitch your wallets ??? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin King Report post Posted December 13, 2007 ***WARNING *** WARNING *** WARNING*** The reply you are about to read is a total and complete highjacking. After the highjacking you may return to your normal posting. You have been warned. Kevin, do you hand stitch your wallets ??? I dont handstitch the wallets, but I do alot of projects that require hand stitching Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
corter Report post Posted December 14, 2007 oh, cool. i like my overstitch wheel but i'll have to look at one of those next time i'm at the store. theres another one, i think my stitching and edging is coming along good, i got some beeswax so now the edges are all shiney and smooth too Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin King Report post Posted December 14, 2007 thats very nice looking Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Timbo Report post Posted December 14, 2007 Looks great!!! Tools make a big difference. One other thing about a stitching groover is that it will make the groove perfectly parallel to the edge. Either one of the adjustable ones by Tandy will work for your purpose. I've always had the cheap one and have gotten along well with it for years. I know I've used it for at least 5 years and have yet to need a new blade for it. Practice with it first, especially in corners. You don't want the groove to run off the end of the leather, you want it to turn the corner. One thing I have found is if you have to end the groove before the edge and not turn the corner, just lift the edge guide and pivot the blade around and it will cut the tail off. You'll see what I mean once you get one. keep up the good work!!! Tim Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
corter Report post Posted December 14, 2007 i don't know if i'm going to start with a groover yet, i really like the stitching in my work right now being out there. i've been carrying a wallet for a long time without any stitching problems, i use it as a design element i guess. one day, i'll get one, just cant make it out to tandy right now Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Warren Report post Posted December 14, 2007 Having the right tools will always make a huge difference in the quality of work that can be produced. After that it's just a matter of practicing until your technique catches up and you've mastered all your present tools. Then you need more or better tools so you can do more things or better work. Then the race starts all over again! So welcome to the never ending cycle and enjoy yourself! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
corter Report post Posted December 14, 2007 haha, sounds like all hobbies are the same. at least this one's less expensive than photography was :D Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
