Leather working

[Sidekick]

Just started getting into it. I've made a few sheaths and they haven't turned out so hot. Where'd y'all start learning from as a beginner?

[jck]

Paying attention to this thread with a lot of interest!

[cjkozik]

Youtube as some videos that might help you.. I will tell you this, there are some great leather people here on tbh and if you run into something particular thats giving you troubles post up

[Sidekick]

Alright man thanks

[rtread]

I started out doing Tandy kits....they have all materials, patterns, and directions. When you get the basics down with the kits (and you've added to your tool inventory as you've progressed), branch out to doing projects with maybe just a pattern and you supply the materials. Tandy has patterns for just about everything. You can also try projects based on something you've seen but don't have a pattern, or just an idea that popped into your head. Take it in stages and don't get in a hurry. Just like many other skills, you won't jump from beginner to skillful in one jump. Rely on others....there is some sure enough talent in the leatherworking thread (not me).

[hunter7]

Call up King Ranch. Im sure they give online tutorials

[Razorback01]

Check out the Tandy website, tons of short videos. If your close to a Tandy location they also have some classes, mostly on Saturdays.

[austinRecurve]

Started at Tandy. They had some free Saturday classes.

Leatherworker.net has a lot of information.

Blade Forums has a sheath section you can check out. I just registered there as fannintexas.

Check out Springfield Leather.

If you want good stamping tools check out Barry King tools.

[Mac]

Post up some pics of what you've made and I can look at them and tell ya what I think.
But the recommendations above are good ones

[Hawkpuppy 1]

It was always something I wanted to try, so one day I did. Really went into it blind and got a basic set of stamps and a cheapo swivel knife. I've added to my stamping tools and am up to about 30 now along with a lot of other accessories that you figure out you need as you go. I've gotten addicted to leather work. I watched a ton of Tandy videos as well as Bruce Cheaney and Ian Atkisson. I watch the videos from time to time to try and learn new techniques and get better at my work.

[Jason Fry]

Paul Long has a very good sheath making video. What I did initially to learn was to talk to the Tandy lady. I'd make a sheath, then take it in and ask her what I could improve. 8 years later I can make a decent sheath. As Hawkpuppy said, each video you pick up one more thing or two, and before you know it, you can do it.

[Razorback01]

Tandy has most everything on sale, I think it ends today, stamps-etc $2.99, regular price $9.99, other stuff too.

Austin Recurve, one of the guys at Tandy recommended the Barry King over their stamps, is the extra $40 worth it?

[BLACKFINTURKEY]

Maybe you can pm Okbowhunter as he does some great work! Good luck

[argel55]

I agree theDVD from Paul Long are great. They will save you years.

The Barry King stamps are custom and leave a definite better stamp in the leather. They are crisp and custom cut where the Tandys are molded. Near most racks in the stores are a piece of leather and hammer so you can try them. It is so you can find a better stamp by trying which ones look better.

[Leon County Slayer]

Leather working

Tandy has most everything on sale, I think it ends today, stamps-etc $2.99, regular price $9.99, other stuff too.



Austin Recurve, one of the guys at Tandy recommended the Barry King over their stamps, is the extra $40 worth it?

Have fun and watch videos like others said. I spent some time with a local shoe maker and that really helped too. Higher quality stamps are definitely worth the price after you've practiced with others. Also, do post up specific questions like mentioned above, it can be a lot of fun.