So, I wanted to post much sooner than this but it has taken a while to get to an acceptable level to be able to post something. I still have a way to go but I do see big leaps in progress from my earlier attempts. I have to confess that I have tried this watch strap project about a dozen times to get to where I am now. I haven't ventured off to other project much at all. I have found that the watch strap requires many different skills to complete well, so I am just looking to perfect my skills with more of this project.
I also would add that a lot issues for me have come from using cheaper materials to practice on. I do believe that spending more on better quality leather is probably the better option when learning.
I used:
1.6mm veg tan leather and 0.8mm black goat skin for the lining.
3mm Crimson Hides stitching irons.
Giardini basic edge paint
0.6mm tiger thread.
I have made this strap with a fairly cheap embossed cow skin. I found this material very hard to work with as I believe the colour is only painted on the surface and it is a very soft leather. I am still struggling with making a neat job of sewing in the keep. Will keep trying.
@nealeselwood Fantastic work there. I agree, the thread colour is spot on and the whole thing perfectly executed 👍🏻
I'm guessing by the single sizing hole that you remain optimistic about your weight over Christmas? 🤣
And you say that you are a starter?
that job is very good! Congratulations, keep practising, that is the key to improve. You are in the right direction my friend 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks, wayne.rogers, for your comments. 2 of the hardest things for me still, is just keeping the edge paint off of the leather and managing to keep the edge creaser in place going around the curved end of the strap. Practice makes perfect as they say.
Very nice accomplishment to be proud to wear. Congratulations. The complementary colors show the stitching well. Good job!