I keep this chart handy for myself and thought I would share it with all of our readers. Converting between oz, mm, and inch can be a pain, and this reference chart makes it a lot easier. Most leather in the US is measured in ounces, and one ounce equals 1/64 of an inch. Remembering […]
The Big List of Leather Trade Shows
I started collecting dates for these trade shows and thought you all would find it useful too. There are some well-known shows like Lineapelle and the Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show but I’ve found a few lesser-known shows like Kingpins, which is for denim but is attended by companies like Riri and other leather related […]
Videos: Making Watch Straps
This is a fairly detailed video by thewatches.tv shows the Hermes watch strap making process. It takes you on a journey from clicking out the leather all the way to sewing, edging and final fitting. Part One Part Two
Pinterest Highlights – Key Chains and Coin Pouches
I can’t help myself lately when I see keychains and small accessories. Something about the small details of these pieces are very enthralling and I end up saving a ton of pictures likes these. I think it’s in knowing how hard it is to make pieces this small, look good. Keychain Coin Pouch
Improving How Your Design Wears
Last week I wrote about experimenting with design. I focused mainly on how a design ‘looks,’ but that a design also encompasses how your creation functions. In the case of leather goods, this includes how the piece stands up to regular use and how it wears over time. A good design effectively accomplishes its purposes. […]
Experimenting with Leather Sandal Builds
10pm Saturday night. I try to publish a post every Friday morning for the Fine Leatherworking blog. On most Thursday nights I am doing final edits and then queuing the post for our newsletter and our blog. Two days later, I have long since blown that deadline. I will eventually end up posting a week […]
Videos: Making Leather Gloves
(photo: www.merchantandmakers.com) When I think of leatherworking today, I mostly think about bags, shoes and wallets. I had never considered making gloves but after watching several videos on the subject, it got me intrigued. I rounded up a few of my favorites and posted them below. Gantier – Glove Maker While browsing for other leatherworking […]
Pinterest Highlights – Technical Drawings for Handbags, Making Moccasins, and Leather Jewelry
This week’s round-up of our more popular Pinterest pins includes several how-to’s from the past and present as well as some unexpected ways of using leather. Leather Jewelry Graphic designer, mom and leather crafter Olivia runs Sokeen.fr, a French blog which includes a simple tutorial on making leather jewelry. Moccasins One potential project I’m […]
Small Key Accessories For The Win
Back in March I wrote a post highlighting small accessory making. Practicing on smaller details is a key component to making finer leather goods. When you can get every little thing right on a small accessory, you’re more likely to do the same when you make bigger things likes handbags and luggage. When we published […]
Videos: Making Alfred Dunhill and Ferragamo Cases
Watching established companies make their wares is a great source of inspiration and a glimpse into traditional techniques and methods. Making a Traditional Double Document Case Alfred Dunhill posted this video showcasing their Double Document Case which includes a peek into how it is made. The brushing throughout the video reminds me to work clean […]