I have seen a couple of hand made holsters on here and have always wanted to make them myself, but I really don't know where to get started. I ordered a book from Tandy Leather yesterday but not sure what the basic tools I will need to get started with are and I don't want to spend a fortune to see if I'am going to enjoy it. Any info out there?

Thanks

Hey Bigsteve83,

I used to make custom holsters, now I limit them to knivfe sheaths (I am a custom knife maker.
You can pickup basic tools from tandy or other places.
The only real tools you need is leather cutting tool or Box cutter, leather awl for punching holes for stiching and good leather cement and a leather stiching tool.
your biggest investment will be leather!!!!
You should be able to pickup the tools for less than 40 dollars.
Depending on what type of guns you have; it is fun and rewarding
to make your own. I made custom holsters for about 15 yrs and then kinda got busy doing other things.
Hope this has been helpful
Lee

Thank you very much. I have heard of people drilling holes to make stiching easier is that true? Or will the awl and stiching tool be fine.

Actually, that is what I used to do also.
2 more tools you'll need,a tools that cuts a groove around the edge of the leather evenly, and a tool that looks like a cowboy spur, you run that in the grove you made with the other tool and it spaces the holes evenly for drilling. Sorry, can't remember
the names of the tools. If you talk to someone at Tandy, they will know what they are by name!!!
Lee

Here you go, The tool names and part numbers!!!
Craftool Adjustable Groover
8074-00
Craftool Overstitch Wheel Sz 6
8079-06
http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/home/department/Tools/8079-298.aspx?feature=Product_6
Feel free to contact me for any questions or help!!!!

Lee@tclan.net
Lee

You've been a great help, thanks Lee.

Steve

Can you just use a big sewing machine, like a 700 class?

You can use a sewing machine… however the main advantage in hand sewing is control and the fact you can use saddle stitching tread. I have a couple of Singers that will sew leather, but I still hand stitch.

My mom has a old singer that I am told will sew leather, I might give it a try down the road. I just finished my first one and I am seeing where I need to improve. Thanks for the advice.

http://www.leatherworker.net

Everything you ever wanted to know.

Thanks, bisleyfan thats a great site!