Beginner Questions

[JohnnyG]

Hi Everyone,

I am just getting into leatherwork and would greatly appreciate some help/advice on a few topics. I’ve been doing a lot of practice tooling and carving on Herman oak veg tan pieces and would like to try my hand at a lighter, more pliable, and higher end leather hides. However I’ve had a hard time locating a company here in the US which has a vast selection of similar hides and exotic skins. Through watching some of Ian Atkinson’s videos I found that he recomends the hide company that I’ve linked below. Perhaps you know of it as well. If anyone knows of a company that is basically the US alternative to this company I would be very grateful if you could tell me about it. Also I’m looking into upgrading my swivel knife. I’ve landed on a leather wranglers SK-3 knife. If you guys know of a higher quality knife or one that is better than the SK-3 please let me know.  Thank you guys. Glad to be a new member here. 

http://www.aacrack.co.uk/

http://www.shop.leatherwranglers.com/product.sc?productId=4&categoryId=18

[terrymac]

If you use Grade A Hermn Oak, you are not going to find any better.  The leathers shown on the website you mentioned, are not to be tooled on.  It is like comparing oranges and apples. The answer to your question depends on what you are trying to accomplish. There are many companies that handle those kinds of leather.  Do a search in the "Suppliers section", and you get an idea of what is available.  Decide what you are trying to do, and then go from there.  Interms of the swivel knife, none better thn the SK 3.

Terry

 

[bgl500]

Yep, in terms of your leather and swivel knife you've already got the good stuff!

[JLSleather]

Since your profile says interested in tooling, then you will need tooling leather.  Hermann Oak and Wickett & Craig are the big ones in the U.S.