The biggest mistake I made in learning how to do leatherwork and how to avoid it.

I was asked, “What is the biggest mistake you’ve made in learning to do leather work and build your business?”
“What would you do different?”
After looking back on 17 years of doing leather work and 10 years of running my business, this is what stands out to me as being the most trajectory changing mistake.
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[@stuartmarkman769]

I was told that if you are not making mistakes, you are not trying hard enough. It is great too have a person on the tube that teaches like you do. I like your style of teaching. I was a teacher and it takes a lot of patience to do the job.

[@kellydaniels8992]

Learning is a valued skill, and that other human trait “patients”. Thanks for your insight, and tips on learn and refining the “Basics”. God Speed,,,

[@michaelvoshell6911]

Hey Joe, Michael from Tennessee. I’ve been cutting leather and trying to learn the craft for three years now. Like you I wanted to build something for my own use but didn’t have the money to buy something from someone else. In my case it was a “Possibles bag” for black powder hunting. Anyway, I found it so enjoyable that I started making wallets (credit to Artie Shell from Mascon Leather, who is a big inspiration) and bags for co-workers and such. I have built some decent articles, but always find myself struggling with the simple stuff like keeping my pattern squared. Now my grandson who is 15 has had me help him make his first wallet, and he got the bug for the craft too. Like you, I’m finding I am learning more by teaching him “the basics”. And wanted to let you know that I am a recent subscriber and really enjoy and learn from every video I have seen. Thanks for the encouragement. Take care my friend and may God bless you and your family in these difficult times. Michael Voshell, Buffalo Valley Leatherworks, Cookeville Tennessee.

[@waynerogers5485]

I should one day get a license plate that reads "ABLS" - Always Be Learning Something. Learn and practice. Learn and practice. I agree. There are 4 people i rely on for leathercraft training, each having different strengths that apply to what I want to accomplish. I really appreciate your particular skill sets and practicality. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. It really is meaningful.

[@johnearhart8811]

Well said. So much truth there.

[@dc-wp8oc]

Appreciated the video Mr. Meling. A specific example or two of some of these "mistakes" or challenges, would have been helpful.

[@utkf16]

Yep agree I was hoping to hear some specifics too.

[@tedyearta2637]

Your such an amazing teacher. Mr melling. I got my first thumb pint and first steep beveler because of your teaching. I love them so much more. Thank you sir.

[@jonhope1204]

Would love to understand more about your cylinder machine. How best to position it - how to use it etc. Mine is on a table however the go pedal & needle lift setup doesnt look right 😶 There was no manual with the machine. Hope you can provide some general help.

[@062809]

I’m a subscriber, new to leather work. I been thinking about quitting. But this video made me think twice. Thanks. I’ll keep making my messes until I get one right. Thanks again.

[@pixie.del.muerte]

Every time I do a project, I find a million things I've done wrong and learn from them the entire time. I usually do a test run on a piece of scrap every time I find a new pattern, learn from those mistakes, and then cut a nice piece to turn it into a lovely project. Mistakes and practice are so important with any labour of love!

[@popscratchie3985]

I do the same I’ve also started using Eva foam for mock ups, it comes in different thicknesses, can be molded with heat and is a damn sight cheaper than leather.

[@timtrax918artisan8]

I learned leather craft just as you did, trial and error. I honestly don't think it was a mistake as I learned how not to do things. HonestlyI learned other skills the same way and I'm good with that.I enjoy your content sir , thinking about it now maybe 30 years ago if youtube was on my radar it would have been different.

[@popscratchie3985]

One thing I see constantly on KZbin is people using plastic rulers to cut with, every time I see it, it makes me cringe. Apart from the fact it’s not very safe it can ruin a good ruler. One thing I’ve learned, not just in leatherwork is always use the right tool for the job.

[@adamharkness9915]

Inspiring Joe, Well said,

[@joemeling3216]

Thank you

[@philochristos]

Good post!

[@joemeling3216]

Thank you

[@juliangonzales2916]

Saludos👍👍👍

[@cassiegreeno]

Humm..learning the hard way huh? Like building a belt backwards 🤣 It's ok, we got it fixed 😅Mackenna can't wait to show you her belt on our next trip to Pendleton!

[@joemeling3216]

I can’t wait to see it!!

[@davidfrank3728]

like i tell the wife, "I can make that, for three times as much as it would cost to just buy it"

[@windycrowson1862]

Great advice, but I tried to get my husband in your floral carving class at the Heart of Texas show in August and you’re full. 🫤

[@windycrowson1862]

Disregard! He got into your class. Can’t wait to see you in August!