Need A Starting Place

[BaldDonkey]

Howdy.

I have just begun working with leather and what I really want to do is make stuff. Stuff like hats, gloves, boots, armor, bags, and so on. The problem is that most of the resources I find are more focused on carving. So, does anyone know a good place to star I would appreciate it.

[UKRay]

The best place to start is wherever you feel most comfortable. Start simple and work your way upwards. There is nothing more soul destroying than starting a complex project and realizing you don't have whatever it takes to complete it. This could be tools, materials or simply the experience and expertise to do the job.

You will need some basic knowledge like how to use the tools so my advice would be to get some scrap leather and chew it up finding out what the tools can do. Then try making some straps - get a few buckles and spend time learning how to make a good job of the simple stuff. Then make a belt. A plain belt if you like... Then make a decorated belt. By the time you have finished you will know how to edge shave, rivet, dye, edge stain, burnish and a load of other stuff that defies description.

IMHO, far too much emphasis is placed on turning out perfection. As long as you feel a sense of achievement from your work then you have achieved.Your next project will be an even bigger success because you will have expanded your knowledge even further.

Good luck!

Ray

[Chief31794]

  On 6/7/2012 at 6:22 PM, BaldDonkey said:

Howdy.

I have just begun working with leather and what I really want to do is make stuff. Stuff like hats, gloves, boots, armor, bags, and so on. The problem is that most of the resources I find are more focused on carving. So, does anyone know a good place to star I would appreciate it.

If you're looking for instructional material the I would get the three volumes of Al Stohlman's , The Art of Making Leather Cases. These are somewhat dated but the general principles of leather goods construction and layout are still valid and a good place to start. Welcome to the dark side, this hobby is addictive and will absolutely consume you so either leave streaks in the parking lot getting away while you can or strap in and hold on it's a wild ride. Leather is fun!!!

Ken

[Northmount]

  BaldDonkey said:

1339093342[/url]' post='251606']

Howdy.

I have just begun working with leather and what I really want to do is make stuff. Stuff like hats, gloves, boots, armor, bags, and so on. The problem is that most of the resources I find are more focused on carving. So, does anyone know a good place to star I would appreciate it.

Also look at a couple other recent threads. Starting

CTG

[BaldDonkey]

Thanks for the replies guys!