Hello from near Nairobi, Kenya – New Member Intro

[Bobs Brassware]

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! 

[PastorBob]

Welcome from SW Missouri USA.  That's pretty cool.

[OdinUK]

Hi John,

 

That looks like  quality buckle you made.  Im interest in casting too.  I bought a small propane furnace and just lined it.  All set to try melting some of the scrap Aluminum I have to get some practice sand casting. 

 

Regards

Paul (in Germany) 

[Bobs Brassware]

On 9/20/2025 at 6:29 PM, Darren8306 said:

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! 

@Darren8306 
Hey Darren,

Apologies for the late reply — I didn’t see your message sooner! I’ve been busy building the website for Bob’s Brassware, but I’m back now.

Thanks for the suggestion about the lost wax and lost PLA methods — it’s something I’ve been looking into. 3D printing for casting blanks is a really cool idea, and definitely something I’d like to experiment with down the road. Right now, I’m focused on perfecting the sand-casting process, but I’ll keep you updated as I try new techniques.

Appreciate the insight!

— John
Bob’s Brassware

 

[Bobs Brassware]

On 9/23/2025 at 1:42 PM, OdinUK said:

Hi John,

 

That looks like  quality buckle you made.  Im interest in casting too.  I bought a small propane furnace and just lined it.  All set to try melting some of the scrap Aluminum I have to get some practice sand casting. 

 

Regards

Paul (in Germany) 

@OdinUK 

Hi Paul,

Apologies for the late reply — I’ve been busy with the website. Thanks for the compliment! Sounds like you're off to a great start with your propane furnace and aluminum scrap. It's a great material for practicing sand-casting.

Take your time with the molds, and best of luck with your practice! Looking forward to hearing how it goes.

— John
Bob’s Brassware