Thanks @mmrogers! I’m trying to improve, all the while learning from my mistakes…
This self-taught stuff is bumpy going!
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I can affirm that the R&D aspect of self learning is setting your goals high, constantly biting off a little more than you think you can chew, and then figuring out a way to do it that exceeds whatever level of skill you’re starting with. Painful sometimes, and even frustrating when you hit the little speed bumps along the way, but in the end, so worthwhile!
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Your handmade, leather book cover is lovely! It’s a fine example of form and function. Beautifully crafted, and it’ll certainly protect your gemstone book from any scuffs or bumps. Your fun & enthusiasm for this tooled leather art is contagious - we all look forward to seeing your next project 
.
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Mike, you hit the nail on the head with this comment. It is exactly what seems to happen with me. The creative process keeps pushing me. I don’t like to do what’s easy, I like a challenge. I find myself trying to make each project more involved, and I have to see them all to completion.
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Thanks Patina! Yeah, it’s one of those things….now that I’ve started it, I have to keep trying to get getter. Plus, we bought all the tools so I have to use them!
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Absolutely love this!
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Should you ever decide to do custom work, please, put me on the list. I really enjoy seeing your work.
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Nothing short of absolutely stunning @Stracci! 
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@Ziacat @Patches @here4turquoise
Thank you, everyone! I don’t know what my next project will be, but I will post here whenever I come up with something….
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@Ravenscry Hey, that’s cool!
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@Stracci If you do this, I’m calling dibs! 
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Here’s another box…
I attached a small stud earring as an accent on the front.
I’m gonna make a small tray with a matching design.
The leather will be mounted in the bottom of the tray, kind of a place to corral daily cuffs and rings when I take them off after work.
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Really lovely, @Stracci!
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Thanks @mmrogers ! I’m trying something a little different. There are so many decorative styles I want to experiment with!
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Well, I love what you did here!
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Here’s the jewelry tray I made to match the little box.
The boxes were bare wood. I stained and finished them with polyurethane.
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Veeery nice, @Stracci!
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A beautifully matching pair, @Stracci! 
Keep up the lovely work!
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Looks fabulous. Your “new” bracelet looks great in there.
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