Basic Leathercrafting

Prior to reading this book my knowledge of leathercraft was just was I did as a Boy Scout - so basically non-existent. After reading this book I feel I'd be able to complete tasks with a better understanding of the processes used to create quality looking leather projects. This book really is composed of three parts: 1) Tools - it gives a paragraph or two explanation of many of the tool you may need while dabbling in this hobby/art. 2) Method - This section takes you somewhat step by step through the various ways to turn a piece of leather into a functional work of art. It includes guides on staining, dying, stitching, lacing, and most importantly tooling (adding design using stamps and custom patterns) 3) Execution - This section puts part 1 & 2 into practice. It gives a step by step tutorial on building a card case, and a belt. The author did a great job on this section giving a brief overview of the step without fully repeating repeating the method, although referencing the page to visit if you need additional help. Overall this book is highly recommended by me. It's approximately 200 pages, but with the great illustrations and step by step guides you can easily finish this in an evening and truly get a nice beginners level knowledge on this craft. If you were like me, wanting to see all that was involved with this craft before buying the tools, you can't go wrong picking up this book first. For reference - I purchased the kindle version and read this on my iPad Mini. In the past I've had issues with reference books with lots of illustration not being formatted well enough to make the book usable as an ebook. This book was formatted exceptionally well and I have 0 regrets about buying the eBook vs the spiral or paperback.

I borrowed this from the library, renewed once, said heck with and bought to add to my library. The thing that I love best about this is the clear photos with very very good details. As a photographer I can assure you the person taking the photos knew his craft. It's true - the pictures really do fill in for the 1,000 word explanation. The binding is circular enclosed within an excellent hard laminated cover, so it lays flat when you're referring to it. I wish more how-to books would bind this way.

I've had experience tooling leather, but not in a lot of years. Recently my son took up an interest in it, so I pulled out all my old books and tools. Then I got this book (Kindle edition). After going through it, it was a great refresher for me in exactly what it says- leather tooling basics. It's also a good book for someone just beginning like my son. It covers picking the right leather for your project. It describes the tools and gives a good run down of the essential tools for leather tooling. It also describes the various finishing products like oils, stains and waxes. Then the basic techniques, how to case (moisten) the leather correctly for tooling. How to stain, dye or paint your leather. How to set rivets and use some of the hardware available for leather workers. It also explains beveling the edges, how to neatly finish edges and make your finished projects water resistant. This is all done with a lot of photographs and good explanations that cover why as well how to use the techniques. Then there are a few simple projects that use those skills. I'm very happy with this book.

This used book was rated by the seller as in "very good condition." Although I would never expect to receive a book in this excellent condition that has been used. The book is well written and easy to understand. There are many colored pictures along with how each tool and item is used. I am very pleased with this book as well as the seller.

I just started working in leather goods and this book has been very helpful. I’ve seen some videos where they skim over information where this book does not and shows the whole process. Highly recommend this book for beginners cause it will also show you what you will need for tools so you won’t have to guess like I did.

Good. Informative. Basic.

Great Reference

I really like this book, it definitely walks you through a lot of basics. Nothing replaces time spent with the tools and really getting a feel for the craft (or hobby in my case), but the book leads the way in simple instructions and pictures. It took away some of my nervousness about embarking on this as a hobby and I’m sure will be needed by me for a very long time. Good for anyone from 13 up (or for fairly literate and/or clever ones younger), I appreciate the presentation and helpful instructions.