Hello from near Nairobi, Kenya – New Member Intro

[Origibelts]

Hi everyone,

My name is John, I’m writing from Nairobi, Kenya. I’ve been fascinated with leatherwork and metal casting for a while, and recently started experimenting with sand-casting solid brass buckles and hardware in a small foundry and workshop.

I’m still at the beginning of this journey, but my goal is to create strong, character-filled pieces that makers can use in belts and straps. Along the way, I’m also hoping to learn more about what leatherworkers actually look for in their hardware — things like finishes, dimensions, or styles that make your work easier.

Outside of casting, I enjoy exploring traditional crafts and finding ways to combine them. I came across leatherworker and I’m looking forward to being part of the community, learning from you all, and (hopefully) contributing something useful as I go.

Thanks for having me!

— John M.
near Nairobi, Kenya

Edited September 7 by Origibelts
forgot the image

[Darren8306]

That looks like a cool hobby. Some pals and I made up a small rocket stove and used it to forge a bit of aluminum. Looks like you have managed a lot more heat than that.

 

Have you heard of the 'lost wax method' of casting? Ten or fifteen years ago, a youtuber copied it with the 'lost PLA method', allowing him to 3d print blanks, and cast complex shapes.

 

Too much infrastructure needed to do anything like that in my teeny shop, but I hope to see more about yours!