leash braid

[paleathercrft]

I'm a newbie when it comes to working with leather, so any input would be greatly appreciated. I wanted to start making some gear for my dog like leads, collars, and harnessesetc. and decided to make a leash first. I have a few leads that I have taken apart, so I know how the braiding is done, The question I have is what is the best way to make the slits? I was using a utility knife, but they are coming out crooked and don't look very professional. The leather I'm using is 5/8" wide so it's hard to use the straight edge and knife at the same time.

This is the type of leash I'm looking to produce.

Edited May 14, 2009 by paleathercrft

[kevinhopkins]

Hi... You might try a chisel. I think it's one of the easiest way to make slits that are straight and correct. You can actually buy 1/4 or 1/2 inch ones, but anything longer than that, you might have to make. I've even adapted wood chisels to do that. Hope it helps...

Kevin Hopkins

[tashabear]

Did you buy the leather already cut into strips? Because it might be easier to cut the slits and then cut the long strip.

[rawhide1]

use a spade bit. If the leather is a 1/2" wide use a 1/2" bit if it's 5/8" wide use a 5/8" bit and so on. Some have used wood chisels whatever works for you.

Mike