Using the Hansen String Cutter

[rcsaddles]

I'm thinking you might try cutting lace from leather with a little more body than suede. I learned to cut lace with rawhide and it is a little stiff when I cut my lace and that is much easier than leather that is very soft and flexible.

The hardest thing for me to learn was that no matter how well I thought I was doing, go slow. I have a lot of pieces of lace that are not long enough for the project they were started for. Practice!!!!!!!!!!!

Joe

[entiendo]

Do you have Gail's book on cutting a hide? Easy to follow instructions and you can start on roo. As already stated a circle or oval is very important point. When I make a mistake it's usually because of a corner. What I do is find the center of the hide and then measure roughly were to start.

Oh and the circle cutter roo mentioned is great! I use it to cut up all my scraps! It's a must have.

[kalliergo]

Thanks, again, everyone!

I'll keep practicing, try the little lace cutter on scraps, spring for some kangaroo to see if that works better...

I don't have Gail's book, entiendo, but I'll get it. Her work is just stunning. She's a long drive north of here, but not *that* far. I've been thinking about trying to take a few lessons from her. Seems like it would be hard to find a better-qualified teacher.

-Doug

[Rawhidelady]

I have a used Hansen String Cutter up for auction on eBay if anyone is interested.