Computer Drawing Software For Making Leather Patterns

[JLSleather]

I usually just measure 'em up and draw 'em in. Takes a bit, though, so I don't get too concerned about the back end

TIP:  If you know PS and / or IL, guy might could create a new drawing 11" x 8 1/2", transparent background, at 80 px/inch, and makes it fairly easy to draw.  Digital graph paper with 1/8" squares.  You talented folks likely work in something more like 300 resolution 

You might recognize this Ruger.  Exact position of the safety and/or take down lever not critical, but I do like the port in the right place, and the mag release at least quite close to right.

[ABHandmade]

I'm using CorelDraw. Maybe because I've been using it for more than 10 years and not only to work with the leather, it seems to me that this is the best option.

[JLSleather]

4 hours ago, ABHandmade said:

I'm using CorelDraw. Maybe because I've been using it for more than 10 years

CorelDraw is pretty slick, appears to be efficient to use.  The guy who used to do our vinyl logo stuff uses it, sends it right to his cutter.  If I didn't already have PS and some knowledge of how to use it, I would likely get CorelDraw.  Shoot, I thought that 10 years ago -- could  have had it mastered by now!

[ABHandmade]

10 minutes ago, JLSleather said:

CorelDraw is pretty slick, appears to be efficient to use.  The guy who used to do our vinyl logo stuff uses it, sends it right to his cutter.  If I didn't already have PS and some knowledge of how to use it, I would likely get CorelDraw.  Shoot, I thought that 10 years ago -- could  have had it mastered by now!

I happened to work with many vector editors, but CorelDraw became my choice. The fact that in CorelSuite there is also PhotoPaint for working with raster graphics is also a huge plus. I use both from time to time in my main job. Therefore, when a year ago I suddenly decided to do leather work, the question of choice was simply not standing by me

[Stetson912]

in the how to section i made a little crude walk through of my inkscape adventure in making a 50/50 pancake for a 5" 1911 if you care to take a gander. 

[Rick56]

Illustrator

CoralDraw

Inkskape

[JLSleather]

On 8/18/2011 at 9:48 AM, dickf said:

I scan the gun/blue gun then use Photoshop to create the pattern. When printed, it's actual size and easy to reprint 

8 years ago.  You'd think with all the people touting their videos these days, surely SOMEBODY has a video out of how this is done ?#@!  That would be THE video I'd be willing to endure watch.

I have blue guns (and others).  And i have a flat bed scanner.  Still haven't figured out how to make those into an accurate "pattern".

[JLSleather]

Two more months gone by.  A JILLION more "holster videos".. and NOT ONE of them shows me how to scan a blue gun

 

[LatigoAmigo]

34 minutes ago, JLSleather said:

and NOT ONE of them shows me how to scan a blue gun

You might try layin' the gun on the scanner glass, then place a black cloth over the glass to block out light. Press scan, and you should have what you're lookin' for.

[MikeRock]

I just put a M66 S&W and an M9 magazine on the Canon scanner an the dimensions on the print are within a 1/32" of reality.  Barrel diameter, cylinder length, trigger guard.....the only iffy thing was the front sight, being further from the glass plate was not in focus.  A little imagination and I got that within a 1/16" for length and height.   Looks like it will work.  Beretta magazine, being more shallow came out right on the nose. I'll throw the M9 itself on in a while....dinner's ready!

God bless