Molding to 3D shapes

[Temporary]

Keep in mind that I am very new at this, but I have a question about molding leather to shapes.

As of right now, I am working on some gun holster ideas and trying to mold the leather to the gun before riveting/sewing the holster together. This works ok, but I am thinking that I might get a better mold if I rivet/sew a cut piece of leather first. Then soak the unmolded holster and then mold it to the gun.

With that in mind, the guns that I am trying to fit the holsters too are irregular shapes (revolvers). Is there someway of making a pattern easily out of something that will fit the irregular shapes without having to build numerous prototypes to get the fit right.

Also, if I do go the prototype way, after I stretch a holster to fit a gun, then take it apart to use as a pattern, If I press it flat so that I can trace it, how much distortion will the leather have from the shape I want, and is there a way to compensate for it?

Thanks in advanced.

[paris3200]

Pattern Making

The easiest way to make a pattern I've found is to use a heavy manila folder. I begin by tracing the outline of the gun. I then trace another line offset from the first line. The distance of the offset comes with trial and error. For a semiautomatic I start with 1/2 inch and go from there. I've never made a holster for a revolver so I don't know what to recommend you start with there.

The offset line will become your sew line that defines the outline of your gun. Now all you have to do is fill in the shape of your holster. Don't forget to include your belt loops. Once you have a design that you like make a copy of it.

Now using the manila folder for your material make a holster from your design using the copy you made. You can use glue or tape to hold it together. Check the fit of the gun, the cant, etc. If you don't like something refer back to your original and make a new pattern. This is lot faster than making leather mock ups and cheaper too. Continue to tweak it until your satisfied.

Holster Making

Take a look at this topic 346 post 8 and 9. He uses a press for the initial molding but the idea is the same with a boning tool.

Hope this helps,

Jason

[Hilly]

Get the book "How to Make Holsters" by Al Stohlman. Tandy sells it. It gives very good detailed instructions on how to pattern a holster. The only changes I would make to the instructions in the book is to add an extra 1/4" to the pattern around the trigger guard area and chamber area, and to add about an inch in length to the leather at the end of the barrell.

After you make a few, you might want to start adding a narrow strip of leather along the inside of the holster where you stitch it together. It makes the holster fit even better, and you can probably stop adding the extra 1/4" for the trigger guard/chamber area on your pattern.

Have fun!