stef73433 Report post Posted January 27, 2013 How do I cut nice clean, square corners when I am cutting inlay shapes?I can get a good corner, so my diamonds turn out like ovals? Not sure how to add a photo on here? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
benlilly1 Report post Posted January 27, 2013 When you want to post photos start your topic post or reply post. Scroll down and you should see (attach a photo) or attachments. If it's not there click (more reply options) right next to the post button and it should pop up. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stef73433 Report post Posted January 28, 2013 Example, this ear piece should have diamond shape inlays I was on mobile version, when I switch to full version,I can add photos! Thanks so much for that Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dwight Report post Posted January 28, 2013 (edited) I have had real good luck with some of my home made punches, tools, etc. You can easily make one just for that job, . . . or similar ones. I start with a piece of galvanized EMT tubing (electrometallic tubing, . . . or conduit as it is called in the electrical trade), . . . comes in 1/2, 3/4, 1, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 2 inch. I sharpen the outside of it by holding it up against a disc sander, . . . then cut, bend, form, . . . whatever necessary to get the shape I need. They sharpen fairly easily with a file & sandpaper, . . . putting a piece of scrap leather under the piece I'm punching helps safeguard the cutting edge, . . . and while you may not be able to make it a "perfect" shape, . . . at least it will always be the same imperfection, . . . and you can "fix" it from there. I use a piece of steel, . . . a pair of pliers, . . . end of an anvil, . . . first one thing then another to get the shape the way I want it. One of my favorite successes is in the upper left corner, . . . it makes an oval, but doesn't cut it completely out. I make two parallel cuts from the opening of the oval, . . . about 6 inches long, . . . it puts a tail on the oval, . . . makes a gorgeous hammer thong for Western holsters. Another one in there is only 1/4 of a circle, . . . makes the slickest rounded corners around (no pun intended), . . . and in the total, . . . I've probably got a $2 cash investment. May God bless, Dwight Edited January 28, 2013 by Dwight Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
David8386 Report post Posted January 28, 2013 You can also use woodworking chisels and gouges for cutting leather. A lot of tools used in other crafts can be used. Hope this helps. David Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
