CustomDoug Report post Posted September 9, 2012 I've been searching for left slanting pricking irons (aka "portmanteaus", opposite from normal ones), which is basically impossible to get, and the one's that are mentioned anywhere are over $300 for custom orders. So, I got to thinking... how hard would it be to get a good quality chisel, grind a series of 45 degree slits at specific spots and see if it works? I completely understand that it would take a huge amount of refining before the tips would be consistent. Never the less, it seems kind of do-able. If I gave it a try - could anyone recommend particular metal (of the chisels) and methods for making the cuts (as in.. grinder, dremel, etc.). Thought? General comments? thanks. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CustomDoug Report post Posted September 9, 2012 BTW, when I say chisel I'm not thinking of the ones with the plastic or wood handles.. but more like a mason's chisel or like the punch chisels. Also, since I'm dreamin' here and willing to make it myself... I wouldn't mind it being capable of piercing completely through the leather - like the strap punches are supposed to be able to do. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Leather Guru Report post Posted September 9, 2012 It's a good idea & I've made some in that way but to get all the teeth the right size & spacing will be a challenge ! Maybe U could find some one to cut the teeth with a laser & all U would have to do would be to sharpen them & re temper them . Don't forget U will have to have some with 3 teeth etc. etc. . Why don't U order your pricking irons from Vergez-Blancard ² save yourself a lot of hassle ? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CustomDoug Report post Posted September 9, 2012 It's a good idea & I've made some in that way but to get all the teeth the right size & spacing will be a challenge ! Maybe U could find some one to cut the teeth with a laser & all U would have to do would be to sharpen them & re temper them . Don't forget U will have to have some with 3 teeth etc. etc. . Why don't U order your pricking irons from Vergez-Blancard ² save yourself a lot of hassle ? I can't find any mention of left facing teeth angles on the Vergez-Blanchard website. Of course I'm finding the long list of pricking irons but none are described as being lefties. I am translating with an internet translator btw. Do you have a particular term I should use in the search area, to find them? Other than that, I was considering the price too. I wonder if a machine-shop could whip a couple of these up in a rough form and I could sharpen them? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
fivewayswelshcobs Report post Posted September 9, 2012 Hi I bought a 8/1" portmanteau stitch marker last year from Dixon Tools in Walsall Uk, I wouldn't have thought their price would add up to $300 as mine was about the £50- £60 area, their tools are some of the best I have used. I think they have been on this forum in the past. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CustomDoug Report post Posted September 9, 2012 Hi I bought a 8/1" portmanteau stitch marker last year from Dixon Tools in Walsall Uk, I wouldn't have thought their price would add up to $300 as mine was about the £50- £60 area, their tools are some of the best I have used. I think they have been on this forum in the past. I emailed them several days ago and never got a reply. I figured they didn't want to mess with the special order hassle. I will try again though. Thank you. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
