If you’ve been making leather belts, you may have been asked to make a Ranger Style Belt. In this video, How to Make a Leather Ranger Belt, I walk through the full process—from cutting the leather and preparing the edges to stitching, finishing, and adding hardware.
We also cover the “measuring” for a ranger belt. This is a little different than how we do it for a standard belt. Since there is not “fold” for the buckle this changes the sizing… there are also exterior billets that we use and those have to be balanced when the person is wearing the belt.
This belt isn’t just functional—it’s a great way to practice precision, clean stitching, and working with heavier leather. I also share tips that make the build smoother and the finished product look professional.
Whether you’re new to leathercraft or have some experience, this project will teach techniques you can use in lots of other builds, from straps to bags.
If you want to follow along, grab your materials and watch the full step-by-step in the video.
If you’re looking for a solid leather project that’s as useful as it is good-looking, a Leather Cowboy Boot Bag is a great one to tackle. In this video, Make a Leather Cowboy Boot Bag, I walk through the full build step by step—from cutting and layout to assembly and finishing.
A boot bag isn’t just a cool piece to make; it’s a practical one. Whether you’re hauling your boots to a show, rodeo, or just keeping them clean in storage, this project gives you something durable and unique that’ll last for years.
You’ll see how I handle all the leather pieces, line everything up clean, and make sure the handles and seams are built correctly. I also go over a few small tips that make the difference between a good build and a great one—things like edge prep, panel layout, and clean stitching.
If you’d like to make one yourself, we’ve got a pattern pack available in our online store that includes all the cut patterns as well as a collection of leather floral carving patterns. It’s designed to save you time on the layout and give you a professional-looking result, even if you’re not running a big shop setup.
This is one of those projects that’s just plain satisfying to build—and once you finish it, you’ll have something that’s not only functional but looks like it came straight out of a custom shop.
If you’ve ever struggled to get clean, consistent ends on your straps or bag handles, you’re not alone. In leathercraft, the small details make a big difference—and the right leather end punch can save a ton of time and frustration.
End Punches are designed to round off or shape the ends of leather straps and pieces. The end punch gives you a clean, uniform curve on strap ends—perfect for belts, billets, or tack work.
The Bag Punch, or Oblong Punch, is designed to create a slot with rounded ends in a variety of sizes. This is used for buckle tongues on straps or anywhere you might need a slot.
Why They Matter
Using an end punch or bag punch instead of cutting by hand helps keep everything consistent and professional. No uneven corners, no guessing where your curve should start—just clean, repeatable cuts every time.
If you’re producing multiple pieces or want your work to look crisp and balanced, these punches are worth having in your toolbox.
A Few Tips from the Bench
Keep your punches sharp—a dull one will leave ragged edges.
Always punch on a firm but forgiving surface (like HDPE or heavy rubber).
If you need to, mark your center line first so every punch is aligned.
Final Thoughts
Leather end punches and bag punches aren’t flashy tools, but they’ll quietly level up your work. Once you use one, you’ll wonder why you ever tried to freehand strap ends.
When it comes to leatherwork, the right leather glue can make all the difference. Whether you’re building saddles, wallets, or belts, a strong bond keeps your project clean and lasting. But with so many leather glues out there, which one actually sticks best?
In my video, Which Leather Glue is Stickiest?, I put a few popular leather glues head-to-head in a real shop test to see which one sticks the best.
The Glues We Tested
For this round, I tested a handful of the most common leather adhesives used by pros and hobbyists alike. Each was applied to the same leather, allowed to dry, and then peeled apart to see how well it bonded.
This wasn’t a lab test—it was real-world use, just like we do in the shop every day.
What We Found
Some glues tack up quick but don’t hold as well under pressure. Others take longer to dry but create a stronger, more flexible bond. In leathercraft, that balance between open time, tack, and final hold matters more than the label on the bottle.
One stood out as the strongest bond in the group… and it was a true surprise to us in both type and application.
My Recommendation
You don’t need the most expensive glue on the shelf—you need one that fits your workflow and leather type. For everyday projects, I like a glue that’s:
Easy to spread
Quick to tack up
Holds tight even when flexed or sewn
I share my personal favorites and show the test results in the full video so you can decide which glue might work best in your own shop.
Final Thoughts
Leather glue is one of those small details that separates a good project from a great one. Take the time to find the adhesive that matches your projects and your process—it’ll save you time and frustration in the long run.
One of the questions I get asked most in the shop is: “What thread size should I use? How long should my stitches be?” And honestly, I think we sometimes overcomplicate thread size and stitch length in leathercraft.
In my video, Are We Overthinking Thread and Stitch Size?, I break down my approach to choosing thread size and stitch length, and why a lot of the “rules” out there aren’t set in stone.
Thread Size Doesn’t Have to Be Intimidating
Leather thread comes in a lot of sizes—69, 92, 138, 207 etc.—and it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers. The truth? Choose thread that works for the thickness of your leather and the project.
Thicker leather? Go a little heavier with your thread.
Lightweight leather? You don’t need a super thick, industrial thread.
Consistency matters more than the number—make sure your stitches are even and strong.
Stitch Length: Function Over Fancy
Stitch spacing is another place people overthink. Wider stitches don’t automatically look bad, and tiny stitches don’t automatically make a piece better. Think about strength, flexibility, and appearance:
For bags and straps that take stress, slightly tighter stitches help hold everything together.
For decorative work, spacing can be a little looser—just keep it even.
My Opinion
I like to keep it simple: pick a thread that suits the leather and the project, and focus on making each stitch even and consistent. You’ll be surprised how much better your projects look and feel without stressing over the “perfect” numbers.
Final Thoughts
Thread size and stitch length in leather craft is important, but don’t let them paralyze you. Leathercraft is as much about technique and attention to detail as it is about following rules.
If you’ve been working with leather for a little while, you know that skiving leather is one of those steps that makes a big difference. Thinning down your leather in the right places helps with folds, seams, and overall finish. But here’s the thing… there’s no single “right” way to skive leather.
The skiving tool you choose depends on what you’re making, the type of leather you’re using, and what feels good in your hand.
The classic skiving knife for leathercraft is simple and effective. It gives you a lot of control, especially for small projects or detailed work. These are great if you don’t mind taking a little more time and enjoy that hands-on feel.
Safety Skivers
A safety skiver is a good option if you’re just getting started. They’re affordable, easy to use, and replacement blades are cheap. They don’t offer the same finesse as a knife, but they’ll absolutely get the job done for general thinning and are perfect for beginners in leathercraft.
French Edgers
If you’re working with heavier leathers, a French edger for leathercraft makes it easier to remove material quickly. It’s perfect for thinning down strap ends or prepping areas where two pieces overlap—like when making wallets or belts.
Powered Skiving Machines
For bigger shops or production work, a leather skiving machine (like a bell skiver) is worth the investment. It saves a ton of time and keeps results consistent. Not everyone needs one, but if you’re doing a lot of wallets, bags, or production runs, it’s a game changer.
My Take
Here’s the truth: I use them all. Sometimes I reach for the safety skiver, sometimes the French edger, and other times I’ll fire up the machine. The important thing is having options and knowing which tool fits the job in front of you.
Final Thoughts
Skiving might not be the most glamorous part of leathercraft, but it’s one of those steps that separates a clean, professional project from a beginner one. Whether you’re using a simple hand skiving knife, a French edger, or a full skiving machine, the right tool will make your work easier and your results better.
When it comes to leatherwork, there are a few pieces of hardware that I just couldn’t live without. Rivets and snaps might seem like small details, but they can make or break a project… literally. They add strength where you need it, hold things together under stress, and give your leather goods a finished, professional look.
In this video, LeatherCraft Rivets and Snaps I Use Everyday, I walk through the different types of fasteners I keep in stock in the shop and why they’ve earned a permanent spot on my bench.
My Everyday Rivets
Double Cap Speed Rivets – These are my go to light duty rivets to fasten two pieces together easily while still looking nice on both sides of the project. With lots of finishes available for these, you can match these to the different types of hardware you might use.
Copper Rivets and Burrs – When you need something that will never give out, copper rivets are the way to go. These are my choice for more heavy-duty gear like saddles, tack, bags, etc. They are also available in brass for that classy look that matches polished brass hardware.
The snaps that I Use
Line 20 Snaps – These are a smaller version of the Line 24 snaps and work great for journals, small pouches, and other small projects where the closure needs to be a bit smaller but still secure.
Line 24 Snaps – These are a step up from the line 20 snaps in size and strength. I use these on many projects including bags, larger journals, hoof pick holders on saddles, and more.
Segma Snaps – These are a great belt snap. Small and secure, they work great and look great for belts and come in many different finishes.
A Few Quick Tips
Always match your rivet or snap post length to the thickness of your leather project. Too short and it won’t hold, too long and it will sit loose or bend over.
Invest in the right setters and anvils for the particular fastener you are using. Good tools make a difference in this case.
Test hardware on a scrap piece first before setting on your project.
Final Thoughts
These fasteners are nothing fancy, but they are reliable. I’ve used them for years and they have worked well for me in my work. If you are new to leathercraft, I would suggest starting with double cap rivets for smaller projects and using copper rivets for bigger projects. Learning how to use fasteners properly and how to set them is crucial for your leather crafting journey. Try different ones and see how they work for your work.
Here is a full video that we posted on our YouTube channel that explains in depth all of these fasteners. Check it out and put some of these to work at your bench.
Craft Your Own Leather Tortilla Warmer with Our Latest Project Video
The world of leather craft, is not just about making horse tack, belts, and wallets; it’s also about creating pieces that add a unique touch to everyday life. That’s exactly what we’ve done with our new leather tortilla warmer. This project is perfect for anyone looking to blend functionality with craftsmanship, offering a unique and stylish way to keep your tortillas warm.
Our newest video on YouTube, “Making a Leather Tortilla Warmer,” takes you through the entire process of making one of these. From selecting the right leather to the final stitching, we cover every step making it easy for LeatherHeads of all levels to follow along. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, this project is bound to pique your interest.
Why a Leather Tortilla Warmer?
Leather is not just durable; it’s also an excellent insulator, making it the perfect material for a tortilla warmer. However, what truly sets this project apart is its uniqueness. Fabric and ceramic dominate the kitchenware scene, a leather tortilla warmer stands out, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical use. This is a product that will make an outstanding gift or item that your customers will surely have to have.
For the Love of Leathercraft
This project is more than just a leather tortilla warmer; it’s a merging of leather craft and cooking. It’s about taking the skills and techniques of leatherwork and applying them to create something not only beautiful but also useful in the kitchen or around the barbecue pit. It’s a testament to the versatility of leather craft and its potential to transform ordinary items into extraordinary pieces.
Get Started Today
Eager to start crafting your own leather tortilla warmer?
Check out the full project video to see how to make one in your shop.
We do offer a pattern pack for sale as a companion to the video. This pack includes all the patterns and and a collection of floral tooling patterns to craft your very own leather tortilla warmer. Click Here to purchase your copy of the pattern pack for this project.
Whether for yourself or as a gift, this leather tortilla warmer is sure to impress. Crafting a leather tortilla warmer is not just about creating a functional item; it’s about expressing creativity, honing your leathercraft skills, and making something truly unique. So, why wait? Dive into the world of leather craft with this fun, unique project that both you and your customers will love.
The overwhelming selection and variety of leather craft tools available on the market can be hard to navigate. This is especially true for people that are new to the trade. We can all spend a lot of money buying tools that we might not find a use for often enough to justify the expense.
We get questions asking for guidance on getting a good core set of leather craft tools that will allow someone new to the craft the ability to complete projects effectively. When I started leather craft many years ago, there were many quality publications available that talked about tools and supplies for leather work. There were also “leather craft kits” on the market that came with a collection of leather craft tools to get a new craftsman started. These kits are still available today in many sizes and budgets. I do feel that these are a great resource for anyone starting out.
Many of us in the industry started out with one of these kits. The only problem with these at times is that you may find that a few or many of the items in the kit might not be something that you will use much. I still have many of the tools from my very first leather craft kit in my program within the shop today. But unfortunately, there are a number of tools that were in the box that I never found a use for.
I decided to put together what I believe is a solid core list of leather craft tools for anyone wanting to get into leather work.
Our hope is that with this blog post and the accompanying video, you will have a better handle on the tools that I believe are essential and why. This information will help to make a better determination on what tools that you may or may not need based on the leather craft projects you plan on creating.
I have tried to supply a source link for as many tools as I can in this list to maybe help you find these or something similar. Some of these tools may include our Amazon Affiliate links if that is a good place to find them. Many of these tools you can purchase from your favorite leather craft supply business of choice. Where you get the tools isn’t near as important as “Does the tool do its job and work for you?“… that’s the most important part.
I hope you find this video and list of leather craft tools helpful in your leather working goals. Let’s get started.
Below is our list of Essential Leather Craft Tools that anyone doing leather work should have in their tool box.
I have attempted to break this list up based on different leather working tasks. There are also links within this list for some suggestions as to where to find them.
Leather Sheers – Maker’s Leather Supply and other leather supply companies will sell a version of these
Measuring and Marking Tools
C.S. Osbourne Spike Awl – Weaver Leather Supply sells some of these as well as Amazon. I can’t seem to find the exact one I have in that size but there are other sizes that will work.
Tape Measure – small size… 12′ or 16′ – any hardware store will have these
Square – Any hardware store will have this
Straight Edge – Maker’s Leather Supplymakes the one I have in the video… but any straight edge will work
Wing Dividers – Springfield has the 8″ pair in the video… Maker’s Leather Supply has a couple versions as well as a cheaper version that I have as well that are good
Pencils – I really like the Ticonderoga brand of pencils and you can find them many places but here is where I get them on Amazon.
Punching Holes
Drive Punches size #2, #4, #8, #10 – Maker’s Leather Supply (these are a higher end CS Osbourne punch) and Springfield Leather have many different sizes and styles of drive punches. I have also used the super cheap ones from Harbor Freight in the past… you have to sharpen and buff them off, but they will work if that’s all you can get ahold of. This video, “Hole Punches You Need for Leather Work,” we talk about hole punch options.
Actual size of holes these make: #2 – 1/8″, #4 – 5/32″, #8 – 1/4″, #10 – 5/16″
Leather Edge Preparation and Slicking
Rub Stick – Leather Supply companies sell variations of these, but they are also really easy to make your own from scrap wood in any shape that you need and then sand to a smooth finish.
Slicking Rag – Any heavy canvas or denim cut to size will work for this. Canvas can be purchased at fabric stores like Hobby Lobby.
Can/Container for water as well is a dauber or sponge – I prefer a small tomato sauce can but any little container will work.
Stitch Groover – for the cheaper craftool version visit Tandy Leather – for the higher end wing divider style visit Jeremiah Watt Tools
Overstitch Wheel – looks like they don’t made one like mine anymore… Tandy Leather sells one with multiple wheels for different stitch lengths
Stitching Awl – for the CS Osbourne haft, Springfield Leather has them as well as blades, this blade is my best guess as to a decent one, but you may get a few different ones and see what you like. There are many options for blades depending on your goals. Barry King has the bigger haft as well as his own blades.
Maul or Mallet – preferably larger and weighted, I prefer a 24 oz maul for setting rivets and punching holes, but as heavy as 4lbs is helpful with heavy end punching and large bag slots… Springfield Leather, Barry King and Maker’s Leather Supply have them as well as many other companies.
Rubber mat – any type of dense rubber will work for this.
Cutting Board – wood or plastic… you can these at Walmart and other places… Hobby lobby also has self healing cutting mats
Small Metal Anvil – scrap steel, aluminum, railroad iron, or a mini anvil
Rivet Setter – for copper rivets… Maker’s Leather Supply (they carry two types) and other supply companies have these available
Hoof Nippers or Side Cutters – for cutting excess off copper rivets… an old set from a farrier work well but hardware stores carry good side cutters as well.
A Few Extras
Side Cutters
Needle Nose Pliers
Cigarette Lighter
All three of these items can be purchased at Walmart or any hardware store.
