My Leather Craft Journey

Show & Tell
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I’m starting this thread to document my new hobby, leather tooling. I didn’t want to sully the ‘Tooled Leather Purses’ thread. In case you haven’t seen it: Tooled Leather Purses

My husband wanted to try leather working, so he went to Tandy Leather and bought starter tools, dyes, etc.
Naturally, I elbowed my way right into his new interest! I couldn’t help myself. I love working with my hands, and this craft really called to me.

After working on a few sample pieces, I decided my first project would be a leather hair thingy. I drew my own design.

This is how it went:

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Looks terrific, @Stracci! With your impressive, already proven, artistic ability, you’ll be mastering this new art form in no time. Heck, you’re almost already there. :+1:

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Thanks @TAH ! This is just a starter project. Clearly I need a lot more practice. I plan on working on a few more pieces this weekend. It’s sooooo much fun!

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Great! You sure qualify as both a silversmith and artist. A very talented craftsperson. Im amazed how you just picked it up first try.

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Thanks Steve! I knew when I saw the tools that I had to try it. Once I understood the process, I was eager to get started.

I love making art like this, creating from the bottom up. Not to disparage anyone who uses them, but I don’t like templates, stencils, or CAD. I dislike all that stuff. I like to come up with my own designs.

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@Stracci Beautiful! You’re such a talented artist. I luv seeing your step-by-step process. It sure makes for a lovely ponytail holder.

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Thanks Patina! You mentioned that in the “Tooled Purses” thread, so I figured I’d start a discussion showing the process.

Maybe someone else will get inspired to try this, too!

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Are you sure you’ve never tooled leather before? :wink:

Your barrette looks amazing! I agree with the previously shared sentiments, and like @Patina, I really enjoy how you lay out your process. :+1:

It will be a treat following along as you enjoy this newfound hobby. I’m really looking forward to seeing how you’ll incorporate your silversmithing skills: it doesn’t get much cooler than handcrafted silver and leather! :+1::+1:

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You are a natural. That looks great.

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Wow @Stracci you never disappoint with your talent! Your first tooled leather project looks great. It reminds me of Ashley Robin’s work. You can find her here.

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Fantastic! Very handsome results, hard to believe it’s a beginner project. Looks fab on you too. Please keep sharing these projects!

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Beautiful! You’ve made a great start!

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I’m so impressed

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@Ravenscry @fernwood @here4turquoise @chicfarmer @SherriD @OrbitOrange

Thanks to everyone for your encouragement! It means a lot to me.

I’m only a few weeks into it. If I didn’t have a 40+hr/week job taking up all my time, I would be getting more accomplished. I can only make art/jewelry on the weekend. It is frustrating. Grrr!

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Of course, now you know we expect to eventually see a belt and buckle both made by you :grin:

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Oh no! The pressure is on!

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Very beautiful :heart_eyes:I like it so much!

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I second this, as it’s a great first step in combining your talents, @Stracci. The conchos can come later. :grin:

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Here are a few more samples I just did today.

I might punch some holes in them for key fobs or use them for bookmarks.

I need to get a lot more practice. I want my next project to be done right!

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These are awesome, @Stracci, great work!

I’ve always thought of talent as nothing more than a pursued interest. You were curious about working leather and you’re doing it! Much like your silversmithing journey and the lovely jewelry you’ve crafted, your leatherwork is sure to evolve into precisely what makes you proud and the rest of us drool! :+1:

I can’t wait to see your next project!

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