Wet Forming Tight Curves

[Scott Ebersole]

Ok, I've been making holsters for a while now with no issues but I'm wanting to make some things with flat backs and all of the forming done on the face. How do I accomplish this with things such as mag holders and speed loader pouches. I would like to use just 1 solid piece in front with not cuts at all. There are also some holsters I would like to try this with as well. I have attached a picture of what I'm trying to do.

[Dwight]

You make a two piece wooden form, . . . male and female. The male would be the back part, . . . and it would be the shape of the back and the empty void you desire in the piece.

The female part would be the front, . . . hollowed out to accept the back piece.

What you will probably have to do is make the back on a lathe as a round piece and saw it in half.

The front will only be done by gouging, drilling, cutting, and sanding, . . . and will take some time to do. Be sure to fully, . . . completely, . . . throughly sand the front piece, as any imperfection will be transferred to the face of the leather.

Leave the space between them for about 3 or 4 oz thicker leather than you plan to use.

Wet the leather, . . . hand force them into the female part as much as possible, . . . then force the other piece into it, . . . leave it for about an hour with clamps on it to keep it from moving, . . . remove the clamps, . . . air dry.

May God bless,

Dwight

[Tree Reaper]

You can make the mold and press form the wet leather over it.

[shtoink]

You can make the mold and press form the wet leather over it.

I'd pay attention to what this guy is saying, I think he might know a thing or two about bending leather to his will.