The best way to cut straps

[oltoot]

Learn to use a draw gauge and when you do, you'll never look back. Like all tools, learn to sharpen and then, not the only way, just my way, select blades with a sharp point and punch in to the beginning of the strap leaving ~ 1/2 inch attached to make handling the strap easier then cut it loose  after finishing.

[Markwell]

In this video you can see a draw gauge being used. It takes a while to learn, but after that it is a joy to work with.

[garypl]

When I cut a long straight edge, I used to clamp my straightedge to my table because it always moved when holding it by hand.  Today I rigged up the straightedge with 2 thumbscrews and threaded inserts .  Drilled a couple of holes in the top edge of my bench and threaded the inserts slightly below the surface of the workbench.  Now I simply slide the leather under the straightedge, tighten the 2 thumbscrews, and make the cut.  If the leather is longer than my cutting mat, I loosen the thumbscrews and slide the cutting mat further under the leather.  This is quicker and easier than fumbling to tighten clamps without moving the straightedge.  If I want to work in this area of my bench I unscrew the thumbscrews and remove the straightedge.