OK - an update. BTW - did anyone notice that in the first picture in this post, my computer screen is on COTEP.org??
It's time to cut the belt slots. I usually lay these out by hand - I've never had much luck getting them straight using a template. Being anal costs me a lot of time:
Once I've located the slots, I cut holes on either end at the drill press:
With the holes drilled, I use a razor sharp chisel, I cut the slots. I'm sometimes amazed that with all the sharp tools that leather working uses, I still have yet to shed blood on a project. Usually, any time I'm using any type of tool, my wife and daughters draw straws to see who's turn it is to drive to the ER.
Anyway, I've found that it works best to only cut part way from the front, then flip it over and cut the rest of the way from the back.
Here's what it looks like after a bit of cleanup with the trim knife:
Now, I use the #2 bevel tool to make the slots look nice and finished:
Here's a better shot of what they look like when they're finished:
Now, we need to get it ready for dying. First, flip it over and using my handy-dandy press modification, add my makers mark:
After stamping the mark, I use a very wet cloth to wipe it down with water. This cleans the leather, makes the disappearing ink disappear, helps me locate the places where there might be glue that needs to be cleaned up, and also helps start to remove any marks from stitching. When it's dry, I give it a good rub down with deglazer (essentially acetone) to remove any waxes or oils - and give me a good buzz. After it's dry, I can apply the dye with a sponge brush, then set it aside to dry.
Here's what it looks like tonight:
Tomorrow, we'll start working the edges and adding finish.
Lane