Questions About Tool Quality And Supply Companies

[Tombers]

I have questions about where the best places to buy tools and supplies. I know everyone in leathercraft knows about Tandy, but I've read that the quality of their tools is not the best? I'm just starting out and can't really speak to this. Does anyone with more experience have any other companies that they can recommend for tools and supplies? Thanks

[Art]

The quality of Tandy's tools are not the best. They are trying to keep the hobby costs down to a reasonable level. I know that their stamping tools are not up to the Bob Beard level, but they don't cost north of $50 apiece either. Their knives aren't up to the quality and hardness of the custom makers either.

For stamping tools, start with the 15 piece 1013 set from Gomph-Hackbarth, you can build up with makers like Bob Beard, Barry King, Wayne Jueschke, Jeremiah Watt, Gomph-Hackbarth, and others, some newer to the business like Clay Miller that do fine work.

For Leatherworking tools, Start with Weaver Leather, they carry many different makers of good basic tools. Springfield Leather also has good tools, and the hobby stuff too. The used tool market is a good place to go if you know what you want; buy from Sheridan Leather Outfitters or Bruce Johnson, they won't sell you bad tools unless you specify them (for collecting), always specify using tools. Ron's Tools makes great edging tools.

Read the above links to get some idea of what you need.

Art

I have questions about where the best places to buy tools and supplies. I know everyone in leathercraft knows about Tandy, but I've read that the quality of their tools is not the best? I'm just starting out and can't really speak to this. Does anyone with more experience have any other companies that they can recommend for tools and supplies? Thanks