How Was This Awesome Bag Made?!

[kieote]

Bit of a leather newbie here ... I came across these amazing leather bags online, and I would LOVE opinions on how one would even begin to go about making them!

Mostly, how one sculpts such a beautiful skull that's so 3d out of the leather.

The bags are here: http://dmitrybyaliknyc.com/shop.html

Thanks!!

[TomG]

I'd like to see someone try to get that handgun bag through airport security without enduring a body cavity search!!!

[kieote]

I'd like to see someone try to get that handgun bag through airport security without enduring a body cavity search!!!

I thought the same thing, hahaha. I'd imagine they'd be so confused for a second.

[wolfe9]

Looks like it was done on a vacuum table

[raysouth]

You name it and someone will do it in leather. lol.

Very creative leatherwork.

I have a lifesize anatomical skull should anyone need one to purchase one for their skull molding. Was used in anatomical medical school some years ago.

God Bless.

Ray

[kieote]

Thanks so much for the replies! I definitely never would have thought of a vacuum form.

More newbie questions: What kind of leather would be that is pliable enough to take such detailed form? Would you basically wet it, form it, then let it dry?

Thanks!

[johnv474]

I dont think wet-forming chrome-tanned leather works as well, but vegetable-tanned mold easily when wet. Im guessing that to get that level of detail the leather must be on the thinner side, say 2-3 oz.

[Matt T]

I'd be willing to bed that there is a form behind that leather, that remains in the end product. The leather is probably pushed/stretched to the form and attached with glue.

[oltoot]

It would require very carefully selected piece from a 4-6 oz, perhaps even heavier if you have a 14 or 20" splitter to run the piece through to get the perimeter of the piece down to an even ~ 3, hide that had not been leveled. Probably with center in an armpit (front more likely to fit) very soft and pliable in the middle, getting firmer toward the edges. Steam would also help with the molding process. Yes there is a form behind that stays in and is sandwiched in between outside and lining. The form is smaller and not as detailed as the finished.