sizing tooling patterns

[Joshstrange]

On 1/25/2019 at 12:16 PM, mdawson said:

Hi Josh

As you working with MS Paint presumably you’re using bit mapped images such as jpeg, bmp etc.

A simple way to get a precise size would be to place the picture into a word processor such as MS Word, Libre Office (free), Open Office (free) and use the picture tools to resize the image to the actual dimensions in mm or inches, then print without scaling.

If you’re unsure how to do this I can put together a how to for you but unfortunately not until Tuesday, if that would help, let me know.

Mark

I never thought of that I will try that

[Joshstrange]

Thanks for the reply's.  I sat down in front of inkscape and i think I figured it out for the current project it did take 6 hours but got it done.  someday I may try one of the non free programs but right now my secretary AKA the wife wont let me spend anymore money on this hobby.  I'm glad this forum exists, so much info.  thanks again.

[Handstitched]

On 1/25/2019 at 10:07 AM, Joshstrange said:

I cannot draw to save my life.

I second that Joshstrange . But over the years, I have become quite adept  at modifying patterns to fit particular projects or jobs. Either that or lose money. 

For example, a  tooled bag with acorns & oak leaves etc.  Sometimes  I would pick an acorn from this pattern, and oak leaf from another to make up a design that I like. The pattern becomes a ' bitsa' ( bits 'a this and bits a'  that) We call breeds of dogs  that here in Oz . But its the end result that counts.  I think that over time, you will become  quite good with a pencil and paper, have confidence, you might even surprise yourself    

Also , I do use the photo copier at our local Shire office to enlarge or reduce a pattern , very handy. 

HS

[VYO]

Here's the completed pocket/clip on holster for a Ruger 38. I did it with 2-3oz veg tan doubled up for the holster and 8 oz veg tan for the clip holder. Pics came out a little blurry for some reason.

 

 

[Joshstrange]

On 2/6/2019 at 2:32 PM, VYO said:

Here's the completed pocket/clip on holster for a Ruger 38. I did it with 2-3oz veg tan doubled up for the holster and 8 oz veg tan for the clip holder. Pics came out a little blurry for some reason.

 

 

That came out very nice is there a reason that you used such light leather.  I have used 4-6 oz leather to make holsters but they seem to wear quicker and not look as good than a 9-10 oz. holster, but I have never made an in the pocket holster just out side the waistband pancake style holsters.  

[VYO]

28 minutes ago, Joshstrange said:

That came out very nice is there a reason that you used such light leather.

Thank you.

Yes, a total of 6 ounces seemed more reasonable to me to fit in a front pocket comfortably than using a heavier leather with a liner. The customer was accustomed to a nylon holster and I didn't feel that a heavier leather would be very comfortable in a front pocket carry. Also the paddle has a little bit of give when sitting. I wasn't sure a heavier leather would easily give or at least not dig into a leg when sitting. It's the first pocket carry I've made. Also since this is a conceal carry holster worn inside the pants I felt it wouldn't get as much wear and tear as a holster worn outside the belt. I could be totally wrong on that, time will tell.

He was very pleased when he tried it on his belt and placed it in his pocket. Time will tell how well it holds up. I'll ask him in six months or so to send a photo to see how it's holding up. I'm sure he'll let me know if something goes wrong with it before then.

Edited February 8, 2019 by VYO

[VYO]

On 1/26/2019 at 5:36 AM, Stewart said:

 

 Thank You  VYO.  That broke the learning block I had of Inkscape.

 

You're welcome. Glad I could help.

[Joshstrange]

1 minute ago, VYO said:

Thank you.

Yes, a total of 6 ounces seemed more reasonable to me to fit in a front pocket comfortably than using a heavier leather with a liner. The customer was accustomed to a nylon holster and I didn't feel that a heavier leather would be very comfortable in a front pocket carry. Also the paddle has a little bit of give when sitting. I wasn't sure a heavier leather would easily give or at least not dig into a leg when sitting. It's the first pocket carry I've made.

He was very pleased when he tried it on his belt and placed it in his pocket. Time will tell how well it holds up. I'll ask him in six months or so to send a photo to see how it's holding up. I'm sure he'll let me know if something goes wrong with it before then.

 I figured it was for the front pocket carry.  I made a holster for myself and used 6-7 oz because i didn't want to wait 2 days for the heavier stuff to get in and it was just a small "purse gun" anyways.  It works just fine, I have carried it every day for about a year and it still has good retention, it just looks like its 10 years old, granted i'm not easy on it either.  If that's what the guy wants that's what he will get.  The thicker leather just seems to hold up better to abuse.

[VYO]

Just now, Joshstrange said:

The thicker leather just seems to hold up better to abuse.

Agree with you there for sure.