allow myself to introduce myself

[thunderzy]

Hi, my name is Zack! I have been interested in leather working for some time, and now just getting into it. Im also a watch collector, so I decided to make leather bands for my watches. I have made 2 bands and now Im hooked. I would like to continue and explore leather working. Unfortunately I do not have the tools required. I have come here to learn what I need. I will focus mostly on leather watch straps and other small leather products. Im also an avid motorcycle racer and would love to learn to repair my leather racing suit. I do have a very small collection of tools

Hole punch set

Leather glue

Needle set

Leather Glue

What other tools must I absolutely have and where do I get them?

Thank you

Zack

[TwinOaks]

Hi Zack, and to Leatherworker.net!

Sorry to say, I can't really recommend a tool list to you, but fear not! Other members who know more about what you're doing will be along soon.

We look forward to seeing some pics of your work. Whenever you're ready to get 'the skinny' on what you're making, post some pics in the "Critique my work" section. There you'll get some honest feedback and suggestions on improving your craft.

Coffee's mostly fresh, bathrooms are down the hall to the left, and don't eat the donuts.

[thunderzy]

Thanks for the warm welcome TwinOaks! Im looking forward to the insight and tutelage from you pros on this site!!

[King's X]

Welcome to the forum.

[rustyriggin]

Welcome!! You'll find the answers to all your leather questions here. Just not from me, cause I don't know.

[flyingcuda]

if you wish to do any carvings you will need other tools as well, i use a stylus, beveler, rawhide mallet, swivel knife, there are many other tools...and then there are dyes and finishes...i believe there is a section for tools and how to use them? ...what's wrong with the donuts????? i had one

[kevinhopkins]

Hi Zach,

As a quick simple.... you need a way to cut, punch, and sew. Cutting could be a very sharp exacto knife, with the ability to polish and buff the blade periodically. Hole punches could be a few drive punches, maybe a rotary punch, and a slot punch. Sewing could of course, be a machine, but if not, you might want to start with a stitching groover, a spacing wheel, some small harness needles, thread of your choice, and a stabbing awl. You'll probably need contact cement, a few rivets, maybe some eyelets, a mallet, and a solid surface to work on. I could go on, but that's kind of basic. Hope it helps a little bit... And by the way, watchbands can command a pretty good price if you do good work. You might thing about exotics as you go along...

Kevin/Springfield Leather Co

[Ian]

Welcome Zack, this is a great place to be. Not only will you find answers to every imaginable question you might have, but you'll always be challenged (by seeing all the great work here) to get better and better. Since I've been checking this site out, I've kept raising my bar, in hopes of someday getting even close to where the successful members here are. Don't know if it will happen, but it keeps me off the plateau of self satisfaction. I'm guessing you'll like it here.

[badger]

Welcome Zack,

Some very good people here.

No question is stupid.

Cheers,

Badger

[joet]

if you wish to do any carvings you will need other tools as well, i use a stylus, beveler, rawhide mallet, swivel knife, there are many other tools...and then there are dyes and finishes...i believe there is a section for tools and how to use them? ...what's wrong with the donuts????? i had one

I am on the understanding that ClayB's dog licks the icing off the donuts. Eat them at your own risk.

Zack you might also look into getting various knives - headknife, utility knife, etc. as well as craft glue and rubber cement to name a few things.