Leather-working

This project inspired me to start a blog with some useful things that can be handmade and also nice looking. It seems like most of the "homemade craft" things have a certain kitchy and mom-made look to them, but it doesn't need to be so.
One of my favorite things about making my own things is they can be exactly the way I want them. That goes for cooking too. After years trying to find just the thing at the store I've mostly given up in favor of making it, if possible, myself.
The thing that suprised me most was the deep satisfaction at my creations that far exceeded that of something purchased at the store. I also go to much greater length to care for the things I've made verses purchased. They are much more loved.
I found this chocolatey brown piece of leather in a sale bin at a going out of business store sale several years ago. I have been thinking of what I could make out of it. I took the idea for this belt pouch from my AE purse I was given and used it for design ideas. This is going to be for a friend of mine who likes to juggle. It fits three juggling balls perfectly and can be worn on a belt.


To make this project you'd need some thick leather, a rotary leather punch - to make the holes, a pair of scizzors capable of cutting through the leather, I use Cutco scizzors my friends gave me when she was a salesperson. They can cut through four layers of denim at a time, thick leather.

You can trace a purse or bag that you have already or make a new one up. If you're experimenting with different shapes you can make a test bag out of light cardboard to check the sizes and see if you like it before cutting the leather. Always measure twice and cut once. Or be okay with changing your pattern if mistakes happen.