first from scratch project done!

[wyldflower]

Yesterday I finished my first from-scratch project, a simple set of slobber straps (for the non-horsey folks, you use these to attach rope-type reins to the bit).

I designed the pattern based on a set of straps I had a long time ago. I used a manila file folder to draw the pattern and transfer it to the leather. The leather was some 8-10 oz scrap from TLF. There were some hard spots in it, and I had a lot of trouble cutting them out, so they aren't as symmetrical as I would like. But I got some good practice in sharpening and using my head knife.

I used a couple of the stamps from the beginner set from TLF for the border, and used dark brown antique and then mahogany antique over that. Leather balm with Atom wax for the resist and finish. I forgot to oil before I put on the resist and antique - oops! I put a couple light coats on after I was done, but I can see that it will need more. A black sharpie I had lying about worked pretty good for coloring the edges, and I used saddle soap and a rosewood burnisher to slick the edges. The edges could use more smoothing and slicking up, and boy is that something I need to practice. something to really focus on in the next project.

I had a lot of fun doing this and learned a bunch. Already started the next practice piece, and have an order in for some nicer leather - can't wait to work on some good stuff.

Wyldflower

[Storm]

Very good first project!  Keep on stamping and designing.

[TTcustom]

Looks good, very nice work. I thought I was the only one that sometimes uses a sharpie to color and edge or touch up a edge!

In the "how do I do that" section I think there is a edge finishing discussion/ tutorial by Hidepounder (Bobby) that is really helpful in getting those glossy awesome edges.

Finishing edges topic

Edited September 22, 2009 by TTcustom

[wyldflower]

Thank you Storm! I'm already on Project 2 - a little designing and lots more stamping whoohoo!

TTCustom - Thank you for the compliment, and the thread link. I got the idea of using the Sharpie from LW ... so maybe it was you I copied Bobby/Hidepounder sure does some beautiful work. I printed out the tutorial so I'll have it handy when it's time to finish the edges on project 2. If I could get my edges half so smooth and polished I'd be thrilled to my toes!