strap retainers on flap or no

[esantoro]

I tried looking into getting brass closures for the flap. The ones I wanted were about $20 from England, but I'm not sure if they are even made anymore. That may be the next design change, though. It would be nice to get Chicago Screws and locks with "Walden Bags" printed on them, but that would indeed cost a fortune. If it's possible to get them lazer engraved, that might be incentive enough to invest in the necessary machinery.

Ed

I'm pretty sure I like the one with the retainers, although the photpgraphs don't allow a fair comparison. The two cases on the right have buckles and stitching around the buckles which add enough detail to that side of the case to make the design look complete and balanced. In Ed's briefcase the strap draped across the front actually adds visual detail to the front which in actuality is not there. This is why I believe that the retainers, or some other detail may be needed on this side (the front) of the case. Ed, is there a reason that you do not add a buckle to the front (aside from the fact that making a custom "signature" buckle probably costs a fortune!)? Your cases are amazing. I really like these.

[esantoro]

The black bag on the right looks just about right, so no retainers. I also have made a few brief cases, and like some of the Aldeney Briggs bags want to use handle plates, but don't know about where to get or make the stiffener to attach these to. Any clues? I have beautiful brass plates and loops for attaching to metal frames, but these type of bags don't use frames--do you reinforce the lids?

You can run a thin metal bar underneath the handle and drill holes at the appropriate places.

ed

[Torquewrench]

Ed, I like the look of your bag with the retainers much better. The clasps on the others look gaudy to me. Also not sure of their quality and once the leather softens up a bit from use how easy they will latch. Some times less is more- offer these other things as options. Just come up with another name for a bag with these options, to seperate the origonal from those with the options. You have a great looking product that I am sure people will pass on down to future generations. Just my 2 cents, Ross

[UKRay]

Ed, I like the retainers because they add a lot of character to your bags. Without them you risk your products looking like everyone else's. It may be an idea to offer to make the bag without them as a no-cost option - rather than offer to add them.