Belly For A Belt?

[Mikes Hide]

I have a good amount of veg tanned pig belly leather and I want to make some belts. I know it is frowned upon due to the natural stretching of a belly but is it completely impossible? The reason I ask is college kid budget concerns.

Bonus question, I am thinking about buying an australian strander for making a braided belt. Worth it or should I just cut by hand?

Thank you.

[Matt T]

It's not impossible.. maybe it will stretch and you will have to add another hole, not the end of the world.

[Peter T]

Regarding the strander, if your on a budget you could cut the lace free hand, but it will take a while. Having a strander will make it a lot easier.

Either way, cut your strands a bit wider than you need them, stretch them then trim to the width you want.

Pete

[humperdingle]

I made a belt from thick belly leather... I've been wearing it about 6 months with no stretching so far. It might over time, but it cost me virtually nothing, so not too bothered.

It has a very nice natural grain, too.

[Mikes Hide]

Thanks for the input guys!

[Cyberthrasher]

As long as it's for you - go for it. But, try not to use it as an example of your work for potential customers.

[Rayban]

I would advise gluing and stitching it to a thinner piece of veg tan, this will firm it up quite a bit and won't stretch so readily.