Wet Mold/Mould Guides

[Elena]

Hey there,

I apologize if I missed any threads on this subject, there seems to be quite a bit here and I am feeling a little lost.

Does anyone know of a website with a good guide on how to make wet molds for pockets/pouches? Like what to make the molds out of, how to avoid small issues, etc.

Just wanting to read up before I get to it myself. Thank you!

[Jordan]

The Leatherworking handbook by Valerie Michael and the Making Cases 3 book series by Al Stolhman are a good starting place for mold making. Basically wood or some other shapeble material is used to make a form the wet leather is shaped to and held in position until dry. Here is a simple mold I made to form a case for a zippo lighter.

[David Fields]

The Leatherworking handbook by Valerie Michael and the Making Cases 3 book series by Al Stolhman are a good starting place for mold making. Basically wood or some other shapeble material is used to make a form the wet leather is shaped to and held in position until dry. Here is a simple mold I made to form a case for a zippo lighter.

I haven't tried wet molding yet but I'm interested in doing it. What are your molds made of? It doesn't look like wood in your photo.

David

[Jordan]

I cut them out of MDF with a jigsaw, screwed the one block (cut to the size and shape of a zippo) to the other and plugged the heads with leather. The whole contraption is held together with C clamps overnight after putting the wet leather piece in it.

[David Fields]

I cut them out of MDF with a jigsaw, screwed the one block (cut to the size and shape of a zippo) to the other and plugged the heads with leather. The whole contraption is held together with C clamps overnight after putting the wet leather piece in it.

I have a dumb question...what is MDF and where do I find it. Is there an advantage in using MDF over wood?

Thanks,

David

[TroyS]

MDF is Medium Density Fiberboard (also known as "Particle Board"). You can get it at any home supply store (Lowe's, Home Depot, 84 Lumber, etc.). Scientifically speaking, MDF is stronger than plywood, however, unless you seal it, the moisture in the leather will eventually ruin the MDF. It's best to stick with solid wood.

That's just my opinion....

[David Fields]

MDF is Medium Density Fiberboard (also known as "Particle Board"). You can get it at any home supply store (Lowe's, Home Depot, 84 Lumber, etc.). Scientifically speaking, MDF is stronger than plywood, however, unless you seal it, the moisture in the leather will eventually ruin the MDF. It's best to stick with solid wood.

That's just my opinion....

Troy,

I know the product as particle board. I agree with you...I will be using solid wood as a mold. I'm sure it will hold up much better than particle board would.

Thanks for your info!

David