Warning; stupid question coming!!

[robheath]

Can some one give a list of the bare minimum tools needed to make leather holsters?  Not for selling just for personal use.

[Dakotaranger]

Man, that's a very good question.  I've wondered the same thing.

[Pathfinder]

Good scissors
Sharp knife
Burnisher
Stitch marking wheel
Awl
Replacement awl points
Heavy thread or rawhide
Needles, and not your basic hand sewing ones either, leather-working needles
Stamps and other tools if you want to put designs on the leather (whole 'nuther thread on which stamps!)
Stain for the leather
Hammer, preferably with a brass or rawhide head
Block of marble or hard stone to hammer on
Stitching pony is not required but really handy

What am I forgetting?

Oh, yeah, leather (another whole thread on this topic, as leather comes in different weights, finishes, etc. for different uses.)

[robheath]

Thanks for the info.  Now i'm going shopping.

[Pathfinder]

Thanks for the info.  Now i'm going shopping.

I know Tandy is poo-poo'd by the more advanced leather workers, and with some good reasons. BUT, they are a good way to get started without dropping a ton of money. They have starter sets which, as your skill progresses, you can replace the lesser tools with higher quality ones. Also makes it a one-stop shop for tools, like this one for $60:

http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/en-usd/home/department/Tools/Leathercraft-Tool-Sets/55510-00.aspx

[Sponsor]

[Sparky]

I can tell you one thing, It adds up really quick.  And is very addicting.  Next thing you know you've got a leather sewing machine and a whole lot of money invested.  There is another thread very similiar to this down below.

[kid terico]

Pathfinder VERY good suggestion. A place to start. KT

[Dalton Masterson]

I think you have had lots of good advice.

Just dont rush out and buy everything all at once. Once you get past the basic tool set, buy what you need as you need it. I have lots and lots and lots of tools that I just dont use that much now that I have found the niche and the tools that I like to use.

Another thing, dont be afraid to ask questions. We all started out as beginners. This forum, the CASCity Leather shop, and Leatherworker.net are great resources. Be sure to use them.

DM

[Slowhand Bob]

Think each item over and make sure it is on an 'as needed' basis.  Remember that something as simple as a leather cutting knife can run the gamut between a five dollar case opener up to well in excess of a hundred dollars for a top brand round knife.   Never let anyone fool you, some of the finest leather crafted started out being cut with a $10 case knife.  Its not always about the money BUT it is usually about the quality.  Ask for opinions on which tool/brand/etc will accomplish your immediate need and you can frequently use the fellow who has 'been there done that' as having an education gained experience for you to learn from.  Above all do not rush out and buy a tool just because it looks like it out to be great, I got box loads of fancy junk that I would be ashamed to pass off on some poor inexperienced Ebay newbie.

[Solus]

I didn't want to start another thread for my question, so I tacked it on  here.

I  have a knife sheath and I've removed it's belt loop.  I prefer to use a belt peg...the only term I know for the part.

What I need to know is where to find them...and if that is the correct term for them.

Thanks in advance for any assistance you can give.