james m Report post Posted June 11, 2011 (edited) Hi there, I've just draw out a rough patten for a medium size satchel/messanger bag. (18"-14" ish) the only problem i have is what to do next! The first one is what thickness of leather to go for and the second one is what tools would i need? As there isnt any time limit on the constuction so im planning to sew by hand. Almost forgot... how much overlaping do you allow for the stitching? Many thanks James Edited June 11, 2011 by james m Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TwinOaks Report post Posted June 11, 2011 Try starting here: http://leatherworker...dex.php?act=idx You can also look at some other of Tom's bags as he made some improvements on the initial design. search function [ "Indy Bag" ], or look up the posts by Carr52. The bag may not be exactly what you're after, but it should give you an idea or two for construction techniques. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Glendon Report post Posted June 25, 2011 Hi James, Rather than answer each of your questions, I am going to point you to two very good books on leather bag making. Your local liberary should have both of them. The Leather Handbook by Valerie Michael & Making Leather Handbags The question of leather type and thickness really depends on the project and personal preference. Bags can be anywhere from 2-3 oz leather for flowing puddle like fabric purses up to 6-7 oz leather for a typical western style bag. For a messanger bag I'm thinking in the 4-5 oz range, but it depends on if you want a bag that is kind of stiff and will stand up on its own or something more flowing. As for type, that is a bit easier. You would be looking for something called bag or chap leather. That's a bit thicker and stiffer than the garment lather used for clothing but not as stiff as the stuff used for furniture or horse tack. The two books above git into all of this. When you've done some reading and have an idea of a rough range of the leather you want, you can call either your local Tandy store or my personal favorite Springfield Leather springfieldleather.com. Explain to them what you want to make and they will set you up with a nice cut of leather. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
james m Report post Posted June 27, 2011 thanks for that, i'll have a look next time im down there Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
