custom tooled tri-fold wallet

[DJole]

I needed a new wallet, so I decided to build my own, from my own design.

I like tri-folds, and I knew what kinds of pockets I wanted and a way to install the ID card holder that wouldn't tear the plastic holder.

So I got out my tooling leather, and some pigskin lining, and came up with this design.

Here's the tooling bit on the top. The design is a copy of an enameled metal piece on the Sutton Hoo purse. (geek humor: this is a wallet, so it makes sense to have this purse image, right? right?)

I have a soft spot in my heart for oxblood dye, so I finally got a chance to use some here. And I've been wanting to use my lovely red linen thread, too.

Here's the interior:

The coin pocket is riveted at the high stress points (which is where my old wallet finally died). The side pocket which holds my debit card is open on BOTH sides, so I can slip it out via the angle side or the other.

The ID card folder is slipped through a leather loop sewn on to the interior.

It was a nice little project, that taught me some things about measuring and folding. You can see that I didn't get it quite right, and that there is one set of erroneous holes across one of the pocket edges, but I'm keeping them as a reminder for next time!

[rdb]

I really like that design..very different.

Making wallets by hand can be hard. MFG ones have an advantage. They use very thin split leathers, and machines to skive even those leathers, for folding over edges.

Nothing better than being able to make exactly what you want.

[Spider]

I like it. cool looking red too.

[TomSwede]

Great looking wallet! I love the front design from Sutton Hoo.

Tom