Best place to buy leather for Han Solo holster

[tobywanben]

When I say best what I really mean is cheapest but still with a decent product. Where have others found tooling leather?
Thanks

 

[Ogibendogy]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(tobywanben @ Feb 27 2007, 07:53 AM) [snapback]1427708[/snapback]</div>

When I say best what I really mean is cheapest but still with a decent product. Where have others found tooling leather?
Thanks
[/b]

You could try ebay, or look up leather in the yellow pages. If you have a Tandy in your area it's a safe bet. I recommend buying a double shoulder in the 8/9 oz. weight. A double shoulder will be cheaper than a side. Also, since you're looking to do this on the cheap, try a No. 2 grade hide. It's not as pretty as the No. 1 grade leathers, but Han's holster was pretty beat up anyway.

Good luck, you're gonna need it.

Marc

 

[tobywanben]

Good luck, you're gonna need it.

Marc
[/quote]

I guess this statement means that this project is tougher than it appears. Thanks for the info about the leather. I was thinking about using a lighter leather due to cost and I figure it would be easier to work with if it is thinner. Maybe I should stick with the heavy stuff after all. If you have any more hints--I am all ears. I haven't worked with leather since 7th grade shop class.

 

[Ogibendogy]

Not trying to discourage you by any means. But it is a bigger project than it first appears. Take your time and realize you will make some mistakes. If you go to Tandy, buy "How to Make Holsters" by Al Stohlman. It's a great primer. You might also want to have a look at "Hand Stitching Leather", also by Al. These two books will be a big help.

Regarding the leather, thinner leathers really aren't that much cheaper than thicker leathers. If you go with thinner, I wouldn't go any less than 6/7 oz for a holster. Also, I forgot to mention, make sure you get vegetable tanned or veg-tanned leather.

Marc

 

[defyitall]

The belt and pouches aren't any harder than making some templates and prototypes out of cardboard or something.

The gun holster requires wet molding which takes a little more knowledge, time, and patience.

 

[tobywanben]

Thanks guys. You have been very helpful. I will take note of everything you said.

 

[tobywanben]

Why do I need to use vegetable tanned leather?

Also, are there any patterns floating around out there or is it up to me to go the trial and error route.

thanks again

 

[defyitall]

Veg tanned is known for it's hardness and light weight. It's traditionally what is used for armor, belts, and tooling. It can be immersed in water and becomes pliable but when dried becomes stiff. So it can be wet molded and shaped.

I don't know a ton about leather but I believe most other tanning processes create more pliable and softer leathers.

 

[Lan-Ed-Tul]

yeah, tandy leather will be best choice to find it

 

[gobler]

One thing, depending what part of the country you live in Tandy is owned by Leather Factery. We have one in Baldwin Park Ca that is very nice.

Cheers,
Jeff

 

[tobywanben]

Thanks for the tips folks