Entering Leather Crafts - Essential Things To Get Started

[Glendon]

For resources, also don't forget http://springfieldleather.com/ Springfield Leather Company. SLC was originally a Tandy store, but was then bought by it's then manager, Kevin when Tandy was going to close a lot of locations. They don't have all of the Tandy stock, but they have the bulk of it, and their leather selection is much better. They don't carry the beginner kits that Tandy has, but I'd look at them for anything else. Their customer service is really something to experience.

[Cyberthrasher]

I find all their beginner tools are usually better as well. I've never purchased anything from Tandy because I always find better stuff for lower or same prices on Springfield's site. But, the Tandy kit is a good way to start - as long as you realize that there is better stuff out there once you're ready to get down to work outside of the kit.

[BurnTheBarrels]

So many choices O.o lol

Would the basic kit from Tandy be a good starting point?

[DoubleC]

I think Tandy's kit would be a good place to start, and they're having a sale right now, although I don't know on what. Also WC, one of our members sells Tandy stuff so I get all my stuff from him now, support a small business, etc. His shop is www.standingbearstradingpost.com I do some horse things, and made a dog leash for a friend of mine, and hope to do tack later on, but I'm having too much fun doing what I'm doing right now to focus on that. If I see something on here that looks intriguing, I try and make it. usually doesn't work out but it's fun and I learn a lot. And I also keep up with my rhythm beads and 'Mare's Stare' which are products I'm selling by doing it that way. I've had a lot of help on here getting what I need to do some work, and you'll find people are willing to answer all your questions! But think about the fact it's an expensive hobby.....and addicting. If you start you probably won't quit until you own a mall sized work area

[Cyberthrasher]

So many choices O.o lol

Would the basic kit from Tandy be a good starting point?

Yeah, that would be fine to start with. The knife and mallet in the kit are a little sub-par, but all the other stuff that's good in it would set you back at least $60 if you were to buy it separately, so that alone is worth it. If you're going to buy the kit, I really do suggest also getting a bag of practice leather. The kit leather has been treated weird and really doesn't tool the way it's supposed to. My work really started improving once I got a hold of the real stuff and figured out what it was supposed to be like. Besides, then you'll be able to practice designs before you make stuff out of the kit patterns.

[Sylvia]

So many choices O.o lol

Would the basic kit from Tandy be a good starting point?

As I said before I would NOT get the basic kit but pay the extra to get the Deluxe Kit. You get a better mallet and better adjustable knife. You get better project pieces too.