Hello From Nj

[Kevdynamite]

Hello everyone!

I've been interested in leathercraft as a potential hobby for some time now and am ready to finally take the plunge. I've been collecting tooled leather wallets for a few years and i've generally always appreciated and collected things made out of brown leather. I'm 24, recently married, and at a point in my life where I need to figure out what I like to do. I'm heavily involved in music and have always wanted a leather pickguard for my guitar. Since they tend to be somewhat pricey online, I figure I may as well try to make one myself with a pattern of my own that's unique and interesting. I do tend to love western saddle designs with acorns and leaves, and will probably try my hand at that.

Because my wife is pretty awesome and doesn't know what to get me for christmas, I'm currently putting together an order for an online website to get the basic things I need to get started with this hobby. The only real hobbies I've ever had have had to do with music and guitars, so this is something that I feel would keep me busy and interested. I recently dug out an old planner I bought at a thrift store in Seattle for $3 and decided to try and personalize it. It had had some small logos in the corners from a company that I didn't really want there, so I messed around with a soldering iron and ended up burning a really awesome tree onto the cover. I didn't really know what I was doing, but I had a great time and it made me want to finally try and learn more about crafting with leather.

This community seems like a great place and I'm excited to be able to learn new things from people who seem to be extremely passionate and talented.

Thanks,

-Kev

[Norton Custom Leather]

Kev, i would say try locating someone in NJ before you jump into this craft.

leather & the tools used can get real pricey quick. not just in tools but in stains, hardware, leather & anything else you may use. i did this many years ago then gave it a rest to serve my country, go thru a divorce & rebuild my life. i picked this up because i remembered that it calming calming for me to put on my headphones get into a zone & craft something that no one else has.

if you do decide to jump in take a look at Springfield Leather Company. they are my only supplier for leather. also look at Ohio Travel Bag. while prices seem high with them your not just buying 10 snaps or d-rings. your buying bulk, & quality.

many on this site will be glad to help you with all your questions. if you have any let me know