comparison of before/after

[corter]

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

[abn]

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

[Randyc]

Nice work, much improved!

Now that your buying tools, your on your way.

Randy

[Don101]

Wow what an improvment, that small investment has realy paid of to the look of your work, Don

[Kevin King]

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.

[corter]

thanks! what do wingtip dividers do?

[Kevin King]

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.

[freak]

***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 ???

[Kevin King]

  freak said:

***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

[corter]

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