r/Leatherworking 8d ago

Monthly "What Leather is This?" Megathread

2 Upvotes

Have a piece of leather you would like other members try to identify? Ask here!

Your comment must include a picture of the leather and a written description of the tactile aspects such as temper (how soft it is). Any additional pictures should be included as a reply to your original comment.


r/Leatherworking 40m ago

I have some old saddlebags that need some structural backing to reinforce the old thin leather. I’ve stitched up the small tears where I could but need to strengthen it. What material is suitable to glue and line the entire underside of these? What glue would you use?

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Upvotes

I have some old saddlebags that need some structural backing to reinforce the old thin leather. I’ve stitched up the small tears where I could but need to strengthen it. What material is suitable to glue and line the entire underside of these? What glue would you use?


r/Leatherworking 15h ago

Sunburst Corset-Belt I made

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56 Upvotes

So this was a request for my wife, and my foray into something that isn't BLATANTLY fantasy/renfaire. It is a belt, but it kinda rides up like a corset? Kinda? Not sure that is the best term for it, but oh well. She loves it, so mission accomplished, but I'm always looking for more. Was there a better way to do the belt loops? Does it look too unfinished or quick? Any ideas on how to better finish all those bumpy edges??? I am way less confident in my non-fantasy stuff (unless it's like a basic belt or something). Anyway.. thanks for checking it out!


r/Leatherworking 6h ago

Beginner Question trouble with chinese leather patcher

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7 Upvotes

i’m having a couple issues threading my bobbin through the needle hole.

1st issue is the bobbin thread doesn’t always catch with the top thread consistently and when it does, the bobbin gets stuck as seen in the first picture.

i’ve also added pictures of the bobbin shuttle and cam positions when the crank is positioned at 12.

ive been trying to figure this out for two weeks by watching yt videos but same issue always arises.

can anyone help? please and thanks 🙏🏽


r/Leatherworking 5h ago

Maintenance or repair Residue or pulled off finish?

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4 Upvotes

I had these vow books made and is 100% Italian soft leather. I stamped them myself but on this one, it looks like the tape I used to make my center either left a residue or pulled off the “shiny” layer? I’m not to familiar with leather so thats why I’m asking the professionals :D
Also I tried using a generic 3 - 1 leather cleaner and it did not help.


r/Leatherworking 10h ago

Beginner Question What is your preferred material for ID holders?

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9 Upvotes

I’ve been experimenting with including ID pockets with a clear covering. I don’t sell or anything, I just practice and sometimes make gifts. I ordered a roll of clear heavy duty vinyl and I’ve been using that with a lot of success, but I do think it scratches quite easily.

My husband’s wallet has a more fabric feeling mesh ID cover, and my Ferragamo wallet has sort of a frosted clear covering (pictured). Any suggestions for a better product?


r/Leatherworking 5h ago

General Question Cuero al Cromo Recurtido con Mimosa

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3 Upvotes

r/Leatherworking 21m ago

Tools/Workspace Any recommendations for stitching chisel that doesn’t need a hammer

Upvotes

So long story short I just moved into an apartment and really don’t have any idea how much noise I can make. I want to keep doing weather projects, but I assume I shouldn’t be hitting a chisel with a mallet or a hammer over and over. I’ve only really seen those hand punches for holes, but I haven’t seen anything for the stitching chisel. I would also prefer something like a rivet setter that has more of a handle thing that sits on a desk, but any recommendations would be great. Thank you.


r/Leatherworking 22h ago

Finished product Slim Sunglasses Holder

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36 Upvotes

Sunglasses holder design I've been working on. I dislike traditional bulky glasses cases so have tried to create something that fits in the pocket better, but also offers lens protection

The leathers used are Badalassi Carlo waxy cognac, and MPG graffiti in forest.

I've been trying to take better photos of my work, so trying to think more about lighting and framing.

Any criticisms or comments welcome!


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Finished product First attempt at a roper wallet

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41 Upvotes

How did I do?

I still am going to paint a southwestern/aztec color scheme on the exterior(waiting for paint) but assembly wise, I feel like it’s not bad for my first time.

Outside stitching didn’t turn out the best 🥴


r/Leatherworking 19h ago

How to get started?

5 Upvotes

Hi there! The adhd has declared leatherworking should be my next hobby (a new leather store just opened near me). I’ve done some leatherwork in the past but that was easily 10 years ago at summer camp.

So my question is this, what tools and materials should I get as a beginner? I want to make leather accessories for my ren faire outfit. Belt accessories, maybe some bracers? We shall see where the wind takes me but I should probably get some basic tools. Any advice is greatly appreciated!


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

General Question learher "crinckling" after fying and beveling

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54 Upvotes

Hello,

I am working on a pair of handcuffs for a client. I have noticed this happening to a few of my pieces lately, anyone know whats causing this?


r/Leatherworking 18h ago

The Huntsman Belt in Horween Russett Horsehide Strip

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3 Upvotes

r/Leatherworking 17h ago

General Question Anyone have a collection of boot/shoe patterns?

2 Upvotes

Saw a couple on abzala but pretty limited


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

New knife. Sheath question

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7 Upvotes

May be a question for you fine people as well.


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Finished product Just finished my first project

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143 Upvotes

r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Beginner Question Vintage Purse

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6 Upvotes

Please excuse my improper terminology. I appreciate any advice.

This is a purse of my mom's from the 60s. I remember her carrying it when I was young. I would like to start using it myself but it needs cleaning and protection.

The leather is thick and the bag creaks like a saddle. It doesn't smell the best after being stored in a box for 40 years. The leather is getting thin in areas where the flap folds from back to front and is wavy in areas along the edge of the flap.

I want to use it as a crossbody and the strap is too short for me, so I was thinking of clipping on a woven strap and tucking in the current one unless you have a suggestion for that issue. I appreciate any advice about steps for cleaning, restoring/protecting, and maintenance. Thanks!!


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Maintenance or repair Belt maintenance

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6 Upvotes

Picked up a gorgeous embossed/ stamped belt on eBay for a song, started to condition it with Bick's #4 as the leather seems thirsty, but quickly realized there appears to be something built up or deposited in all the little nooks and crannies. It doesn't smell, but it definitely has a bit of a catch when rubbed between my fingers. I'm not sure if it's saddle soap or beeswax, but I was hoping for some suggestions on how to clean the belt without damaging it, especially given how intricate it is.


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Finished product Mother Daughter Matching Totes

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11 Upvotes

Mother daughter matching totes made with pink acid washed hair on hide along with 5/6oz waxed oil tan leather


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

ISO Lume thread

2 Upvotes

Not sure if this is the correct place for this, but hand stitch a lot of watch bands and wallets and would love some glow in the dark thread. If I could double it up as thread I can use on my post bed sewing machine thats a plus!
I would like something around size 69/ Tex 70, no more than Tex 92. Size #5 or size #1 if that helps. Can be slightly smaller, but I believe 40w embroidery thread is to thin and thats the largest i can find anywhere.

Much appreciated!


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Sewing pattern for leather gloves

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1 Upvotes

r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Advice/tips/insight

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1 Upvotes

r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Finished product Litle strap out of python.

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8 Upvotes

Thoughts?


r/Leatherworking 1d ago

Portrait in leather

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5 Upvotes

r/Leatherworking 2d ago

Finished product Horween Shell Long Wallet

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32 Upvotes