Gluing stiffener leather onto holster body?

[Regis]

My last holster (IWB), I had to toss because I got a kink in the stiffener when sewing back accross the bottom of the stiffener. Therefore, I have a question about the whole process of gluing and sewing a 5 - 8 oz leather stiffener onto the body of a holster (7/8 oz). Same applies to decorative trim/overlay that may wrap arround.

For example: Holster 7/8 oz and 7" top to bottom. 5 oz leather stiffener (2 1/2" high) set even accross the top from from front edge all the way around to back edge. I have been gluing them with some bend on the front like the finised holster will be. Then sew them all arround all 4 edges. I've had problems on other ones too but, not bad like last one.

Do you assemble as above or glue everything flat. And perhaps sew just stiffener top & bottom and let the ends be sewn when sewing the holster togather? I have been using the Fiebling white cement thinking it is a little more forgiving if I'm molding a holster but, maybe that is part of the problem???

Thanks,

Regis

[BOOMSTICKHolsters]

Hi Regis.

I glue and sew the support pieces on flat. This helps them match up and more importantly, provides counter tension to keep the top of the holster open. It makes a much stronger reinforced opening then if you were to sew the piece on after it was bent.

I would also suggest that you invest in some "Barges" or "Master" cement. Spread it on to both pieces in light layers, then allow a minute or two so they both get tacky. Place them together and "set" the glue by pounding the pieces with your hand or a flat faced mallet. You should be good to go after that. Sorry for the over explanation if you already know this stuff, but some folks on here might not.

[Regis]

Thanks for the "pounding" idea. And, I didn't really think about the natural outward pull of gluing flat. I have Barges but, have not used for sometime. I think it was simply that I was gluing up some things "in the house" and the Fieblings white has no odor. I'll go back to Barges!

Thanks,

Regis

Here is layout (Sure don't understand IWB for a S&W model 410 .40). And the guy is not too large either but, customer is right as long as it's safe (did question "are you sure and for this gun?".

[BOOMSTICKHolsters]

Just wait 'til someone wants a pocket holster for a six shot .45ACP snubby :mellow:

You will get some strange request from time to time. My wierdest one so far was a belt holster for a Thunder Five .45LC/.410 revolver. It was huge! I hope he didn't plan on concealing that thing.

I agree with you though. As long as it's safe, give them what they want.