Where can I get quality blanks that will carve well?

[pete]

Can someone please help me. I need to make a few belts for friends and haven't done so in years. I used to get nice blanks from Tandy(YEARS ago) but the last two that I ordered were terrible(to my likeing.) The leather was 8-9 oz and was consistent but the quality was poor to say the least. I had my doubts but when I cased it and came back the next day they were like mushy, sponges. The grain opened up and wouldn't hold water and the backs soaked it up too. I tried to trace and carve a few inches but ended up throwing it away for scraps.

Where can I get quality blanks that will carve well like Seigels or W/C. leather.

I REALLY don't want to buy a side and cut my own just for 2 belts. Does anyone make quality "head to tail" strips? Maybe some of you saddlemakers or belt makers would like to sell me 2. I need 2 1-1/2 x 50" blanks.

thanks

pete

ps- what do folks get for tooled/dyed belts these days? Do you charge by the foot/inch? I'm making a Sheridan design with 1/8 borders, no stitching just edged, antiqued, no taper.

pea-aire"

[Johanna]

How long does it take you to tool a belt, and what is your shop rate? You have to price belts like anything else. Materials + (time spent X shop rate) X % of profit.

I've always been amazed at how you carvers/stamper/toolers can take a crappy looking strap and hide every blemish in it with your tools. However, I can appreciate the difference of cutting into a high quality hide vs. trying to compensate for a non absorbent or spongy leather. Maybe someone can help you out with some straps?

Johanna

[Cowboy Crafts Online]

Pete,

I have wickett and craig leather on hand I can cut you some blanks. your asking for 8/9oz are you planning on lining these belts, if not I would make it out of something heavier. PM if you want some cut.

Ashley

[pete]

I would love 2 of them 50" long and 1-1/2". How heavy do you make dess/casual belts anyway?

Back in college I made a trophy belt for myself 8/9 and it lasted for over 25 years of daily wear.

What do you charge and how can I get ahold of you?

Thanks

pete

[Cowboy Crafts Online]

Pete,

I line all my belts. I make them out of 7/8oz and then line with 3/4. I also glue a peice of poster board to the back when stamping so I dont have stretch. I leave this in, which helps give the belt body, but keeps the weight down. On belts I do not line I use 10/12.

Ashley