plblark wrote:Here are the tools I usually use:
-Ruler
-Protractor for cant and curves
-Quarter,nickel, penny, dime for rounded edges on the pattern
-Paper
-Pencil
-Compass (both ends pointed) - for transferring offsets and enlarging from pattern.
-clean work surface
-CLEAN hands with well trimmed and filed nails (you WILL mark up the leather otherwise)
-cup of water with sponge or sponge cloth to wet leather for working
-Standard utility knife with SHARP blade(s)
-Xacto knife (small, precise cuts)
-Awl for pattern marking on leather (in the beginning, use it for punching holes too
)
-Stitching wheel for stitch placement
-4 prong narrow rectangle profile punch for stitching holes (much easier on my hands)
-1 prong same profile as above for curves and non-linear placement of stitch holes
-leather beveler for clean edges
-gouger for dressy edges and offset gouged lines. I've been using it less and less for stitch lines
-mini punch for belt slot rounded parts and for chicago screw mounts
-Chicago screws (google image it) for attachments
-glue for large areas of contacting sewn in leather
-Needles
-Thread: actually, synthetic sinew. Ask Johan about it. I prefer small, tight, woven synthetic sinew. I know Srigs uses a thicker style. YMMV.
Of those, the ones that are do or can't do without are:
sharp utility knife, awl for marking leather, punch for the holes, and needle/thread for stitching.
Oh yeah, sense of adventure, and patience.
