How to Dye Leather
4. The right leatherworking tools for the job
A successful leather project starts with quality tools that get the job done right. When you're just starting out, you may find you only need a few basics like a Steel Square , a Leather Knife , and a Cutting Surface — a simple piece of plywood can serve as a cutting surface if that's what you readily have on hand. As your skill level and projects advance, consider adding more supplies including a Marble Slab , a Revolving Punch , a set of Diamond Chisels , a Poly or Rawhide Mallet , a Cutting Board , and a Rivet Setter to your toolbox. After experiencing the ease and versatility the right tools bring to your craft, you'll be on the lookout for more tools that help you work smarter, not harder.
The lowdown on leather working tools
5. Types of leather demistified
Whether you're new to leathercrafting or are a seasoned veteran, the number of leathers available for purchase can be intimidating. Here's an overview of the main types of leather and some of their ideal uses.
VEG TAN NATURAL
Tanned without harsh chemicals using a tightly-controlled process that utilizes tree bark and other natural tannins, this leather is prized for both its beauty and its workability. On average, veg tanned hides undergo a one to three-month process that's reflected in the beauty, workability and cost of the final product. Project Ideas for Veg Tanned Leather: Strap goods, dog collar, knife sheath, holster sheath, wallet, coin purse, glasses case, key fob, notepad cover, journal cover as well as a plethora of projects you'd like to try stamping, dyeing, and forming/molding techniques.
CHROME TANNED LEATHER
The time involved and expense of veg tanned leathers led to the development of chrome tanning in the mid-1800s. Chrome tanning takes about a day in contrast to the one to three-month veg tanning process, making it a more economical choice. Today, about 80-90% of the world's leather supply is chrome tanned and it is heralded for its stain and water resistance as well as its consistency in color. Project Ideas for Chrome Tanned Leather: Purses, bags, vests, personal accessories, tassels, liners, filigree projects, decorative inlays, and more.
6. Confidently buy leather your first time & everytime
Whether you're a beginner or a more advanced leathercrafter, it's important you buy from a reputable company that stands behind its leather. Because buying leather online without the ability to see it up close and feel it in your hands can be a leap of faith, look for a leather supplier that offers Low Cost Leather Samples and provides Free Shipping on Leather Returns . That way, if for some reason the leather you selected based on an online description and photo does not meet your needs, you're covered. Our leathercraft expert Chuck Dorsett recommends going with quality leathers in more budget-friendly cuts like a single shoulder or belly in our Affordable Leather for Beginners video. These leathers are available in a range of Thicknesses perfect for a variety of beginner-level projects and are economically priced so you can focus on enjoying your new hobby without worrying about testing out your skills on a higher-priced piece of leather.
Your success is one of our top priorities at Weaver Leather Supply!
With our free Online Educational resources featuring a wide variety of inspiring leather craft ideas as well as a full range of leather hides, tools, and supplies, you'll find everything you need to develop your skills for a lifetime of enjoyable leather projects.Our team would love to see what you make with your newfound skills! We invite you to post a photo of your creation and tag us @weaverleathersupply to share your leather art and influence others new to leathercraft!
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