Tote Bags

[wlg190861]

I have just started making leather tote bags and am wondering two things.

1 What is the best size of thread to use ? I have been using 277. The bags are mostly 16"x16".

2 What is the best lining material for durable linings ? and where do you get it ?

Dan

[wlg190861]

No one ?

[Northmount]

138, 207, 277 are all fine. Most tote bags won't see really heavy stress on the threads, other than abrasion likely on the bottoms. If glued (contact cement) as well, there is likely little chance of the leather pulling apart.

For linings, there is a wide range of materials. Do you want fancy or plain and tough? A light weight canvas type material would take a lot of beating. It frays easily so edges need to be rolled over or otherwise bound to keep it nice and neat. Needs to be pre-shrunk is there is any chance that it will get wet.

There is a stretchy velvet like material that would look nice and I believe that because it is stretchy, it should take a fair amount of abuse too, though I don't know how long before the velvet surface would look worn. Looking at that side, probably not a good choice.

Polyester material wears well, doesn't shrink, should last a long time.

Maybe some others will chime in and correct me if I've strayed too far!

Tom

[wlg190861]

I am looking for a though wearing leather for a liner. I just haven't been doing leather long enough to know what is good for lining.

[robbied]

Heavy cotton canvas looks good if you suspect it will have a lot of abuse. Otherwise a thin leather such as pig skin would be sufficient. I think given the style, a nice patterned cotton canvas would suit the style you have going on already.

[wlg190861]

Where can I get ahold of cotton canvas ?

[stelmackr]

I do not know the BEST place to get cotton canvas, but you might get surprised by typing "Where can I get a hold of cotton canvas" into a Google search. It came up with millions of links.

Bob Stelmack

[wlg190861]

I do not know the BEST place to get cotton canvas, but you might get surprised by typing "Where can I get a hold of cotton canvas" into a Google search. It came up with millions of links.

Bob Stelmack

Do you think that is the best or what else do they use to line purses and totes that will last ?

[stelmackr]

Do you think that is the best or what else do they use to line purses and totes that will last ?

Sorry, I don't make purses. You asked: "Where can I get a hold of cotton canvas ?", so I provided links to places to get a hold of cotton canvas. If you are interested in the best place to buy cotton canvas, then there is a good article http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=62814&hl=duffle that discusses one man's opinion and how he uses it. I have pinned his article and may attempt to make that duffle bag. Perhaps others can make suggestions.

[wlg190861]

Sorry, I don't make purses. You asked: "Where can I get a hold of cotton canvas ?", so I provided links to places to get a hold of cotton canvas. If you are interested in the best place to buy cotton canvas, then there is a good article http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=62814&hl=duffle that discusses one man's opinion and how he uses it. I have pinned his article and may attempt to make that duffle bag. Perhaps others can make suggestions.

Thank you