Is there a particular leather that you use or does any work. also what do you think about stitching the sides as opposed to threading them with a rawhide strip. looking to make sheaths for my knives, Also what about a leather treatment for durability or water resistance. Thanks in advancen just not sure where to start.
Thanks for the question, Raider.
The type of leather all depends on what you are looking to do. If you are looking at stamping or embossing the leather, than tooling leather works best for me so far.
For someone just starting out, I would recommend the eco veg tanned leather from Tandy. It isn’t super expensive and dyes/tools well, in my opinion. Also, if you mess a few up, it’s not a big monetary loss.
I’m not sure what you mean about the difference between stitching and threading, I apologize.
I haven’t used rawhide for a thread in a long time, I’m currently trying out a new thread that is poly based and waxed.
Any of the waxed threads from the big leather supply places should work well for you. I use a variety of different gauge threads, and it will basically be a trial and error as you figure out which gauge work for your projects.
There are a number of protectants and finishes for leather out there. Wax is a good sealer and waterproofer. There is also an acrylic finish from Tandy that works well. It is highly buffable and brings the leather to a nice shine.
Currently, on all my wet formed sheaths I use neatsfoot oil after forming. It adds some “softness” back into the leather but still lets it retain it’s shape.
I am still learning and will always be learning.
There are a number of helpful threads in the “sheaths and such,” and the “embellish, maintenance and tinkering” subforms. I would suggest taking a gander in those subforums as all leatherheads use different materials and have different methods that work well for them. Having multiple suggestions from well established makers is a huge plus.
I’m not sure if I was very helpful, but good luck in your endeavour. Grab some leather, some thread, a few tools and giver a go.
Enjoy the journey!!
