As I said, I was working on the new strap. I settled on the design and started the tooling. Slow and Sure, didn't want to screw up the new wider strapping, 60 inches long. The new tooling design is a lot more detailed, and to start, I used a square basketweave stamp but only used one row. To look correct, I drew a VERY faint pencil line down the center of the strap as a reference, then used a small carpenter's square to insure the stamp was properly placed EACH time before striking. THIS stamp is turned 90 degrees before each subsequent strike. I drew a reference line on each of the four sides of the stamp to insure I had turned the stamp, a vertical or horizontal line indicating the direction of the accent line in the pattern ON the stamp.
I had messed up a pattern here and there because of failure to turn the stamp in the past.
- 44 New Strap.jpg (345.12 KiB) Viewed 607 times
The side accent was chosen based on it's size, and that it matches the pouch. Worked out well.
The lettering on the strap was done FIRST, and I used the square and a reference line in the center as well. EACH step verified before stamping.
Once the size of the Snap Links were verified when they were ordered, I was able to CUT the ends of the straps in preparation for folding over and stitching when the snap links arrive. (12th, unless they are lost in the mail.)
- 46 end treatment.jpg (440.9 KiB) Viewed 607 times
The dye makes the leather stiff. I treated the leather by rubbing in Mink Oil, which restores the flexibility and keeps it soft. Then I antiqued it. This makes the design POP. I like it. I went over the design with wet Q-tips and wiped away the areas in among the tooling that I wanted to remove more of the antiquing. I'll let this dry several hours then apply the finish. Probably several coats. Then the strap will await the snap links.
- 47 antique 1.jpg (326.17 KiB) Viewed 607 times
- 49 antique 3.jpg (299.69 KiB) Viewed 607 times
Not done yet, watch this space.
I like the muted glow it provides.
