Making a Leather Portfolio

[@lindamellingen5977]

You are such an amazing artist! Thank you for taking the time and showing the love to inspire! It is so appreciated!

[@ChelleWilson]

Until you stop and really think about it, you don't realise how much work has gone into creating something. I really enjoyed watching this piece come together, thank you for sharing your process

[@rsw987654321]

Hey Ya'll, I had the coolest day today. I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Don Gonzales and seeing his shop. Thank you, Don, for taking some time out of your busy work schedule to show me your shop and talk with me about leathercraft! I plan on getting some glycerine and canvas right away to use for my burnishing. And thanks for posting these very informative videos. Again, it was a pleasure meeting you, Don, and thanks for showing me around.(and for the leather craft tips!)

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Richard Wilkins hey thanks a bunch Richard! It was great to meet you and glad I could help!

[@eugenethomas4647]

This is one of the most impressive videos I have seen! Your pattern drawing and tooling skills are insane man! Amazing work!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

Thank you so much!

[@rdeanleatherworks1618]

Love your videos don. I have been doing leatherwork for over 30 years, mostly self taught. Leaned a lot just watching a few of your videos. Especially liked tecnique for gluing down pockets in the portfolio. Keep em common. R. Dean

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+R Dean Leather Works thanks so much! Ya that little glueing trick saves a lot of time on a lot of different jobs!

[@nicholassnell7111]

Thanks Don. You are incredibly gifted, in both your leather craft and your ability to deliver a clear and concise message. Very well done video! Thank you once again!

[@sarahleech7830]

Thank you so much for this video! Just finished my first portfolio. Very pleased with the outcome!

[@bagramdave883]

Great job Don. This is my favorite tooling I’ve ever seen on your vids

[@garyblake4296]

I'm so glad guys like you post this kind of video Don....sure gave me the bug to learn the craft.....

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Gary Blake thanks a bunch man! Grab some leather and get to slinging buddy!

[@joshuamoore9328]

Thank you for the easy to follow video, Don! Not only are you truly talented at what you do, you actually are a great instructor as well. I'm still a novice but I've fallen in love with leather working and I'm trying to make my own leather portfolio someday soon! I have most of your tools, but I may have to figure something out with the sewing machine; I don't know if my Brother machine can handle something this thick...

[@jordanrounds9890]

Just saying if you skive down the edges of the material where you’re going to stitch it’ll help considerably when you got to put it together. I’m working with regular stitching irons and no machine and that’s my work around.

[@ownelpostal2362]

Thank you so nice wow i wish i new how to draw the tool pater n i paint and letter loved your work.old timmer book and old time writer. Great job..

[@valeriebeaudoin5020]

Made my first one and did it a little differently but in the end only made one mistake and it was that I made the right pocket too long and it closed a little off-center. Will do better on the 2nd, great video and a great digital download, thank you!!!

[@bogopuar7463]

Don, You are an artist in every sense of the imagination. It is privilege to watch you work. I always learn a lot from your videos. Keep em coming. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Bo Gopuar thanks so much man! I truly appreciate that!

[@waynerogers5485]

Awesome everything like everyone below said and really, thanks for the music. Loving that, too. Please pass that on to Ben.

[@jayrhoten5747]

Incredible artistry and craftsmanship. Thank you for providing education and inspirational material.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Jay Rhoten thanks a bunch!

[@wiltwager]

WOW!! You have a God given gift to draw like that.

[@ructruc5794]

Your drawing skills are fun to watch. These is no substitute for experience! Great work, very inspiring!

[@graciechristian2446]

thanks i have been so excited to see the video im purchasing the pack tomorrow!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Gracie Christian thank you so much!!! I have been working on this video forever it seems! Lol!

[@andremathys3915]

Beautiful work

[@flowersafeheart]

Awesome!! And gorgeous. Bet that was very satisfying to make. Really makes ya appreciate a product seeing it handmade in detail! Anyone know how the blue dots were made? And the black part on front cover? And would this be the same way (minus the beautiful cover details) to make this with synthetic leather basically (minus the parts obviously about working with leather)?

[@lisajarvis3820]

Your work is absolutely ridiculous GORGEOUS ~ AND I VERY MUCH ADMIRE IT!!

[@iheartart9954]

Beautiful work. Had no idea the amount of work that went into something)g like this. I enjoyed watching this process and listening to the music. Your family is very talented.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it and glad u enjoyed he video!

[@suegotcreative]

Wow! I've watched the first 7:49/26:58 and I'm totally blown away by this video. You are so talented, and that sound track has me wanting to know who the artist is.

[@bluedevil9mm]

another awesome video Don. nice to see you cranking more of them out. that portfolio really pops, especially with the blue centers. I am truly envious of your drawing and layout skills. keep them coming Bud!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+DanFranklin thanks a bunch duder!

[@stevekitella4781]

Well done lad. Very good work, nice to watch a true artist that knows his craft.

[@SoulfulSmokie]

Nicely done!!

[@lopo8975]

Thank you so much for this video and all the other 👍

[@dudediva69]

WOW !! that tooling .... is amazing ....

[@bradymcphail9690]

Man Don, you absolutely blow my mind! So darn good. If I could just have the talent of your little finger, I'd be so stoked!

[@po-t7299]

Any way to add a clipboard? Or whatever it is called. The ring like in a folder to add pages.

[@sherrihodder5532]

Beautiful work!! I've just started leather work this week and your work is amazing! Thanks for sharing this... something for me to aim towards after I've learned much, much more!!

[@GottliebGoltz]

Hay, and I'm learning what a portfolio is too. Thanks again. G-G.

[@sreynoldsred]

What about a video for a rope bag? Love this one ! Thanks

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+shannon bailey thanks a bunch! Next time I have an order for one I will try and make a video.

[@nathanrainwater1657]

You ever get dark smudges on your natural veg tan while working. Trying to narrow down the cause and possible fix to clean them up and not make it look like somethings been removed. Thanks for any input.

[@manueltroncoso5769]

Que excelente video demostración de el experto don González, mucho se aprende como esto. Fuera de este comentario, deseo saber si es posible pegar un cuero humedecido pues pienso que no podría,ese es mi problema ,gracias por entender.

[@benjaminkortz442]

I screwed up the tooling on the back side of this project. Have you ever made one with three pieces? Front back and a separate spine sewn on? Not sure if I’m wasting my time trying to salvage the good front side

[@rfleecs]

Beautiful, beautiful work! I learned a lot watching this video. Thanks for sharing!!!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Ron Fleecs thank you so much!

[@scsherman75]

Hi Don. This looks incredible. I am taking my first leatherworking class this weekend. I am just curious, what would something like this sell for? Thanks for the video.

[@addictivearchery1123]

Good Job Don. I hope you keep making videos, they are a great help.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Addictive Archery thanks so much! That's the plan!

[@veroniquecognasse1618]

Splendide, quel talent ! Bravo !

[@gwynneclark6372]

Thank you ,It's good to see a leather crafts man at work very nice job well done .

[@lillianthistlethwaite9996]

Do the companion packs include a list of tools / glue types / card stock types you used? I am brand new to this, but your work is the closest to what I want to do compared to all other videos I've seen! It looks like the leather you're using is quite thick, too, to allow you to cut your designs into it. Are other (cheaper) fabric types easy substitutes - faux leather or faux suede for example? Or would you absolutely recommend leather only? Thanks for sharing your talents and inspiring me!

[@rustyz4014]

Do a video on how you made the decorative cuts on the handle! I try and try and mine always look terrible. You make it look so easy. I even copied yours and mine still looks bad. I guess I'm not an artist...

[@reinreyes6365]

wow its so unique and beautiful

[@monicaadriana6144]

this was absolutely amazing, I`m blown away at your skill!!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Monica Adriana thank you so much!

[@HauptmannFritz]

Thanks for sharing this video. It's a great resource of knowledge.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Martin Munke thank you so much and glad u like it!

[@morte100]

Extremely well done vid, Don. Pacing is great. I learned a bunch of little things you don't learn from the books...only by watching a real craftsman with experience. Off to get the pattern pack. Keep up the great work!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+morte100 man thank you so much! I'm still figuring out making these videos but I'm glad to hear they are offering value! Thanks a bunch!

[@rolandfitzgerald1475]

Don Gonzales the

[@johnabernathy8462]

Love watching and learning from you !! You should make a video of a rope bag with a pattern we can buy !! Thanks !!

[@garymurdoch8084]

Don, Thanks so much for the effort that goes into these videos. I'm retired and being an old Army combat veteran, I've used leather craft for over 40 years now to somewhat keep my sanity. it is my earthly passion that allows me to learn new things everyday. I notice you use a trim knife that holds an injector razor blade. Where did you find that blade handle? I'd really like to locate one. Thanks Gary A Murdoch

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Gary Murdoch thanks so much for your service! And thank you for the support and kind words! There is definitely something about leatherwork that helps to keep the mind grounded. The blade handle is an exacto handle that you can buy at hobby lobby... it is much fatter than the usual one and I have only found them at hobby lobby. Thanks so much!

[@garymurdoch8084]

Thank you kind Sir!

[@JayJay-sf2wn]

It's gorgeous.

[@sawdust3043]

Enjoy your videos. Can you do a video on how you sharpen your tools?

[@poppamonk]

Very nice brother. I have learned a lot from you .

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Michael Monk thanks so much!

[@claytonschicks]

Really nice work. Thanks for bringing us along on the build

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Georgia Clay thank you so much!

[@bbrachman]

I am wondering if you can just add some glycerin to water in some ratio that will do the same thing as water and the bar of glycerin soap.

[@parascalemodels]

Hey Don Great Great Great. Would you please post a link to knife you are using to cut all your leather pieces out please. Cheers!

[@HonestDoubter]

I have one of Don's patterns packs. Very inexpensive and very generous with his patterns.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+HonestDoubter thanks so much!

[@nickklumb8038]

Hi Mr. Gonzales, thanks for making such great videos and passing on your wealth of knowledge. I was wondering on this portfolio instead of sewing the outside edges would it be possible to lace it with a round braid or would it be to thick. thanks in advance. Nick

[@evgenykhlebnikov7080]

Just curious if there any pros using slicking rag instead of slicking board? And one more: glycerol soap over edges - how does it reacts to the water/moisture later on in use?

[@edjet6031]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing. Excellent Craftsmanship and teacher.

[@hairchick1985]

Can you please also do a video on your preferred knives, i see you also like to use a razor blade. I've purchase my first couple of lifters, thank you for the tool video - i had no idea about lifters and can't wait to see the difference it make to my work

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+hairchick1985 that's a great idea... I will see what I can come up with! Thanks a bunch!

[@mistydawn2717]

Wow! I'm sorry but words fail me atm. If u knew me lol that's saying a lot. Beautiful job dear! 💜✌

[@toequantumspace]

Absolutely stunning! Please show more!

[@rexjerome5931]

Beautiful job Don!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Rex Jerome thanks buddy!

[@prettylittlenailsbeauty751]

Love it the detail in your leather is class, what tool was used to engrave the leather design?!

[@chrisnixon2179]

Beautiful work. How did you get the flower centers to stay blue and not run when you antiqued it?

[@jwk181965]

Have watch several, of your videos. I was wondering what type, of material your glue table is covered with.

[@hairchick1985]

love your videos, your items are just amazing, such a artist

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+hairchick1985 thanks much!

[@marktracy]

Beautiful work! Great video, I am new to leather working, and your video gave me some new ideas! Thanks.

[@terinortonentertainment3890]

Hello! I want to make an Heirloom cover for an 11 X 15 ringed binder. Will this pattern work or do have one to fit this size?

[@timrichards1270]

Damn fine work sir

[@niwnsod4755]

Wow wow wow simply fantastic work. I like that😊🙏🏽

[@stevenscott3278]

Thank you for making these videos. Ive learned a lot from your videos. I hope to see more in the future

[@irelandcustomleather1371]

Superior Craftsmanship - excellent video Ireland Custom Leather & Art Red Rock, Tx

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Eddie Ireland thank ya sir!

[@shanesims2864]

Awesome job !! A true craftsman !!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Shane Sims thanks so much!

[@carylyons7937]

I love your videos, they are very informative. I would love to try my hand at leather work and I am sure I will in the near future. That portfolio is amazing.

[@azsaddledoc]

Don, Great video! Jamb packed with tips for all levels. Thanks for doing these. Question, for learning to draw the flowers, leaves and stems what would some basic "rules of thumb" be? Mine always look thin, fat, crappy, etc.. I have F.O. Baird books and just about everything else ever written and still find myself copying parts I cannot draw well.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Rick Jorgenson the biggest advice I have is to draw ALOT! Even if you are having to trace some of it you are building muscle memory and adding to your tool chest. I would suggest drawing for at least 30 min every morning before the rest of the house wakes up. Have a cup of coffee and practice for 30 no matter what... everyday. This will build a habit along with skills. In 30 days I promise u will see improvement.

[@TheJamestat2]

Where did you get that stitching groover? I like that! Very nice video. Lots of information for the beginner as well as the seasoned craftsman!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+TheJamestat2 that is a horseshoe brand groover and I️ got it from weaver leather I️ believe. Thanks a bunch!

[@rosiew9283]

Anyone know the intial measurement of the leather rectangle? Most portfolios are three pieces I love this is just one piece

[@lancetrent6691]

Thank you Don. Truly enjoyed the video - very helpful. Learned a bunch.

[@atmyworkshop8385]

Great Video! What type of textured bench are you working on is there some purpose for the texture?

[@Chungustav]

There you go Don. Subscriber number 5000!

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Silkworm hey hey!!! Thanks so much!

[@muhammadfadly9129]

Thanks for your lesson. I just start making this. Keep up your hard work.

[@yayatouri4797]

Very thanks about all these wonderful videos

[@ms.beehaven266]

Amazing...beautiful

[@lisajarvis3820]

Question: Could I use this same method for making covers for my handmade books ~ but leaving out all holding inserts ~ then I would want to glue the leather covers to the book block?

[@secretagent3764]

WOW! Your work is amazing!,

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Secret Agent thanks so much!

[@sreynoldsred]

Can you make this with a ring binder

[@takes2home]

HI DoN sorry to bother you again...my last question was to long and maybe i made some confusion. what do you recommend for the sealing grease/conditioner first and than some water proof aerosol or the opposite : first the spray and than the conditioner? have a very great day and thank you for al the support/knowledge you'r sharing

[@HollyMarie49]

How many square feet of each leather weight is needed for this project?

[@lucamarialanza7319]

Amazing... I'm stunned by a so much beautiful thing... Speechless.

[@kreator-ys1yz]

You sir are a Master... Thanks for the videos.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+kreator861 201 ha ha! Thanks so much!

[@dudediva69]

amazing ... love your videos ... thank you

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+DudeDi Va thank you!

[@lm386opamp]

Could you tell us more about the Slicking rag? I have been using wooden slickers and beeswax and not happy so far.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+George Suprenant u bet! The slicking rag is simply a piece of heavy canvas that I buy at hobby lobby or Michaels. U can work some white saddle soap into it to get a new one a little jump start.

[@lm386opamp]

+Don Gonzales Thank you so much! Just getting started with leather in my mid 30's I am so happy pros like you are willing to answer questions!

[@georgeclough3397]

Great video! What adhesive do you use?

[@gabrielchartrand5641]

What is slicking water and how do i make it

[@sedulousdabbler5468]

Great video Don, thanks for taking the time make it. What glue do you use please? Cheers Rich

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+sedulousdabbler thanks a bunch! I use barge or weldwood

[@gregnewberry4813]

I know this is an old video, but what knife were you using to cut the leather at the beginning? Thanks

[@tinoyb9294]

Don, are you drawing on the leather in pencil? How do you get the marks out? Loved the tip on angling the calipers.

[@DonGonzalesMaker]

+Kevin Hall yes sir I'm using an 8B graphite pencil and drawing on dry leather. You can use a white eraser and just erase the marks if any are left after tooling. Thanks a bunch!!!

[@calebwitcher3977]

Great video! What kind of glue do you use ?

[@МикитаКарацупа]

Perfect work!