When u design a new holster pattern

[rccolt45]

Hi guys,
 

when you design a new holster pattern and are ready to build the first prototype what are you using leather wise? I have always used what I have laying around but I noticed if it’s not the correct weight leather it throws of the stichlines. I have read some people use bellies of foam what’s the best way to go?

[Thadrick]

I use the leather I would normally use but I don't spend any time with carving it. A holster uses very little leather, maybe $30?  If it's a failure, I throw it away and if it's good to go then I have a knock around holster for camping and such.

[chuck123wapati]

Except I go for it all the way, tooling and finishing to boot, if it's good first time around that a win, if it's not then it's a lot of good practice for the whole project.  I usuallypractice my tooling and finishing a couple of times on scrap beforehand to help make that good first try.

Edited 4 hours ago by chuck123wapati

[AlZilla]

I like 1/8th" craft foam. It's about the thickness of 8 ounce leather and gives me a good idea how things are going to align and fit together. I don't sew anything or make a full prototype. 

Once I get it satisfactory, I have a craft foam pattern.

[Dwight]

I use either marine grade vinyl ( about 25 bucks for a piece that is 36 x 48 . . . 

OR . . . I use yellow manila folder stock.  

The vinyl gives me a really good shot at what I need . . . and is best for some unique do dad . . . but in the end I use the cut piece of leather to mark out and cut the pattern on manila folder stock for future reference.

I always make the first cut 1/2 inch wide in all directions . . . and trim as needed.  It is very seldom that 1/2 inch margin doesn't do the trick.

May God bless,

Dwight