smilinjack Report post Posted March 17, 2016 Howdy everyone. I'm new to the site and new to leathercraft. I recently made a holster for my 1911 because I was tired of the cheap plastic one I had and wanted something a little bit classier. I didn't expect anything spectacular being my first project, but I ended up pretty happy with the results and I found I enjoyed the process. I used 8/9oz Hermann Oak I ordered through Amazon and some waxed thread I picked up at Joann Fabrics. While I think my stitching is decent, I realize I should've gone deeper with my stitching groove, especially on the inside of the holster where the stitching from the belt slot comes in through the back. Currently the stitching is somewhat frayed from being rubbed/caught by the edges of the gun. I think I may also try some different thread, something nylon and not so thick. Another thing that needs improvement is my edge finishing. I used a wooden edge slicker but they still didn't come out as nice as I was hoping. Overall, I don't think I did too bad for my first time and I definitely learned a few things to watch out for next time. I posted a picture on Facebook and already have a friend asking me to make him a holster for his .357. So if anybody has any other comments, I'd be happy to hear them so I can improve the quality of my work. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JLSleather Report post Posted March 17, 2016 Stitching was the 'thing' that stuck out for me. Aim at a consistent length and a consistent tension. Could be the angle of the photo, but some stitches look deeper / shallower. But I agree that overall, that's a pretty good looking first shot! Free holster patterns and tips over on the site... help yourself! http://www.jlsleather.com/diy/holster-patterns-diy/ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Red Bear Haraldsson Report post Posted March 17, 2016 The very first pinned post in "How do I do that?" will give you what you need for edges. Yours is definitely better than my first! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dikman Report post Posted March 17, 2016 Pretty good for a first effort. We all have to start somewhere, and it's not until you actually make something that you learn what works and what doesn't. Each one you make will be better than the previous one. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Toney Report post Posted March 18, 2016 Very nice Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
smilinjack Report post Posted March 19, 2016 Thank you all for the kind words. Stitching is definitely an area for improvement. I think I might buy a stitching wheel (is that what is called?) to get a more consistent stitch spacing. What would be the recommended stitch length for a holster like this? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JLSleather Report post Posted March 19, 2016 Call it an "overstitch" -- 5 or 6 would work. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
snubbyfan Report post Posted March 20, 2016 (edited) I prefer using chisels. Sometimes I set the stitches in a groove. Sometimes not. Depends on the look I want. Edited March 20, 2016 by snubbyfan Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Earl Ash Report post Posted March 22, 2016 Nice job! All of us have a first project and we learn with each one. Read the suggestions found on this website about smoothing your edges. I have made a number of holsters, my first was not as good as yours! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stu925 Report post Posted March 22, 2016 Looks great for a first holster, nice work. Stu Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
