Single shoulder vs. side

[Dullguy]

   I'm fairly new to leather work and have been ordering my leather through Springfield Leather. I can buy a veg. tan single shoulder for about  $8.30 a sq. ft. or I can buy part of a side by the sq. ft. for $11.00.

   What are the benefits of ordering off a side vs. a single shoulder?

   I will be making pliers and tape measure cases with the thick leather and phone cases and wallets with the thinner leather.

[bikermutt07]

For what you are making there is no need to change.

The side shouldn't be priced that much higher unless it is a better quality tannage.

Also, a shoulder is part of a whole side. In a side you have the shoulder, belly, and back. The back is going to be the strongest due to the straighter grain.

[Dullguy]

Oops, I just checked back on Springfield's website and realised I was comparing a craftsman grade shoulder with a B grade side so that would probably explain the price difference. Craftsman grade sides are only $.30 more a sq. ft. Thanks for your help!