Choosing a Scratch Awl or a Stitching Awl
A scratch awl marks and a stitching awl cuts the hole. Buy the marker first, then learn where that advice breaks on thick bridle, curves and closed holes.
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Is a Hand-Crank Leather Splitter Worth Owning
A hand-crank leather splitter earns its bench space only for some makers. When to buy one, when a pull-through tool does, and when to order leather to weight.
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Which Cut of the Hide to Order
Sides, backs, bends, shoulders and bellies each suit different work. How to match the cut of the hide to the project, and where buying only bends goes wrong.
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Buying Solid Brass Buckles That Last
A buckle sold as brass can be brass all the way through, a color, or a thin coat over zinc. Six questions to ask before buying one for a strap that has to last.
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Conditioning a New Leather Strap
A new leather strap rarely needs much. The job step by step, from the tannery coat to the last buff, and what goes wrong at each stage when it gets too much.
