I have to admit that I found inspiration in this thread and started a new hobby after I purchased some cheap tools from Temu.
I really like the part that it is recycled leather from old purses I found in the thrifties.
I have not painted the edges (but not sure if I want to tbh).
I have to admit that I found inspiration in this thread and started a new hobby after I purchased some cheap tools from Temu.
I really like the part that it is recycled leather from old purses I found in the thrifties.
I have not painted the edges (but not sure if I want to tbh).
How long ago did you start because these are quite good for a beginner.
It doesn't look like you've tapped down the stitching, I'd suggest that you do so. Looks better and feels smoother.
Did you make your own padding?
I only use vegetable tanned leather for watch straps, it's so much easier to skive and it's much stronger than mineral tanned leather. Velodon is a must in my opinion, otherwise the leather around the spring bar can tear. It's not expensive either considering how little is needed for each strap.
I always paint the edges now after finding the other way (friction stick with Tokonole) too rough looking for my taste. It takes awhile to get good at the painting but you may pick it up quickly. I use a mesh paint roller, WUTA brand off Amazon, $12USor so. I have the Tandy style with star shape wheel, and I've used an awl, the former can leave ridges in the paint and the latter caused me to have paint spilling over the edges. When paint does flow over the edges, wipe it quickly in an upward direction with a wet finger.
Where do you buy Velodon from?
The only place I could find online is some shop in Singapore.. I am based in Europe and with shipping fees, VAT and duty fee, etc it gets a bit pricy.
Is there any adequate replacement of Velodon that could be found in Europe?
Thanks a lot!
What size of the thread you are using for 18mm straps? I think the thread I have is around 0.6mm, but was wondering if bigger would not look better. I am trying to do the stitching 1.5mm from the edge.
I’m doing my stitching line the same, at 1.5mm from the edge.
I’ve used 0.6mm Julius Koch Tiger thread, it looks way too thick on 18mm dress straps. I’m using RMLS’s Masterfil/Twistmade.com branded 0.45mm waxed linen thread with holes marked by pricking irons spaced 2.7mm apart.
I recently bought some 0.35mm thread sold by Since because I have some straps from Tuns Store that look awesome with really thin thread. I have a set of 3.38mm pricking irons on order to help make the thread look even thinner. Will see if that was the right call.
I also just received more Fil au Chinois #832 (0.43mm) linen thread because it looks thinner than RMLS’s Masterfil 0.45mm thickness. I’m pretty sure the latter is made by MeiSi by the way. The FaC is much harder to stitch with though for me as it’s more fragile than the MeiSi thread. It’s expensive too!
Thanks for the info!
I am curious to see the one with the thin thread already (happy if you post a pic here once ready).
I was repairing some motorcycle saddle bags this morning.
Before…
And after…
I still make the occasional strap. The one on the right is for a customer’s Ernst Benz GMT watch. And the Levi’s, well, just because I can. On display in my shop.
Thank you Dan, Larry, your sweet notes warm my heart.
Yes still alive, but in a very busy cycle. I miss you all too 😊
Syrte. You were missed by two of the nicest fellows in Dan and Larry.
Since you kind of own this thread, here is today’s project and a giant piece of leather that came in yesterday.
I pre-punched the holes and will hand stitch this belt.
