The Leather Element: Trunk Style Leather Handles

www.weaverleathersupply.com/
In this week's The Leather Element video, we'll be showing you how to make a trunk style leather handle. This is also known as a purse or bag handle and it adds a very professional look to your bag of choice! The leather is shaped and hand sewn around a piece of cord.
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[@brucepaddle6603]

A pleasure to watch a true craftsman at work.

[@philsullivan3679]

Aside from his professionalism, Chuck is such a fantastic teacher. His delivery is with precision. He is clear, simple to follow and confident. His instructions are a treasure to anyone wanting to learn or hone their existing skills. He is currently holding some live sessions and they are extremely enjoyable to watch. He has a super sense of humor and you can tell that he is passionate about leather crafting. Ok, you can pay me now Chuck!

[@Elliottsr1]

Lol

[@pbp6741]

This series just keeps getting better.

[@marty01957]

I said it before , You are a good teacher ,Chuck! Thanks!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Martin!

[@alanrouse8301]

Nice job, Chuck. I need to make some handles. You got here just in time!! Thanks.

[@hellorin]

Same, also, here's a tip, You may want to stitch a strip of leather with a snap to one handle and another snap to the other if your cord is thin That allows for them to become one

[@walterholmes4609]

Any pro watching this knows that this fellow is a PRO!

[@Tyger_Eyez]

Wow! Looks a lot easier than I thought it was going to be, LOL. Thank you for another wonderful video 🥰

[@roxannejarvis2263]

You make it look so dang EASY!!! I love your super easy instructions and your enthusiasm too! What I wouldn't do for a day in your shop! MANY THANKS for sharing your love of leatherworking - - I feel like I can try this type of handle now without as much trepidation!

[@Shoop83]

Would love to see an advanced series. Making a complete suit of hardened leather armor one piece at a time. Articulated joints. Details, colors, all the bells & whistles.

[@hellorin]

Why armor? :D

[@Shoop83]

@@hellorin I do that cosplay thing and would enjoy watching a suit of armor get crafted. There are some elements involved that would help my own crafting for a character I'm planning next year.

[@digitaIgorilla]

Could've done with this just a week ago. I found my way though and surprisingly, ended up with about the same solution (used parracord). Nice to see I wasn't Barking up the wrong tree 😀

[@beatnikrn2945]

Greatly informative! I just finished my first leather handle to replace on an LV bag I bought from an online thrift store. Looks good as new. I would like to ad one thing about the rope used. I read online that harder/stiffer rope works better to maintain shape and strength. The handle I’m replacing had a hard, thick rope, so I’m reusing that. But I had originally bought a softer rope from the craft store that is too soft. I assume the handle would have flattened over time, so I’m glad I learned that bit before I completed this.

[@patrickfarley8036]

Great timing! My leather handle on my Marshall amp just rotted away at the ends so now I'll just make my own instead of buying a factory replacement. Making it myself will cost more no doubt but I'm sure it'll last longer than the 5 years I got out of the original grip.

[@maryb2431]

Thanks, that was really useful information and looks doable, will be trying that soon!

[@Elliottsr1]

I'm working on the handles for a purse, this was great information. Thanks Chuck

[@cleathercrafts]

Thank you! Your lessons make me keen for my next project... and even for my current ones!:D

[@pabrowncoatbrewer7154]

I’m literally in the middle of making a travel bag for all of my leather working tools to take with me as I travel. I attend a lot of sci-fi conventions and would love to work while I’m there. The bag, of course, needs very strong handles and I will definitely be using this design for them! Thank you for teaching us to be better at this.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

That's awesome - so glad the video was helpful! Thank you for watching

[@Giu_AKV]

Loved it!! Thanks!

[@danojames8329]

Awesome work

[@byGaryVaughn]

Hey there Chuck! First off, thank you for all the info and “luck with my projects!” Loving learning the craft! Got an idea for a leather element... adding thread when you run out of length or want to change the color or thread within the project. I think I have an idea of how it can be done.... just wanted to throw it out there. Thank again!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you for the suggestion, Gary and for watching!

[@wetdewlap8741]

A true craftsman!!! Thank you kind sir for sharing your knowledge! Grrreeaaattttt Video!!!!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much!

[@louisphildurand]

that slick at the end gave me the answer with my scabbard. and for your information I went with your solution with the contact cement. (i could not afford to buy any other sorts of leather like the Chrome tan you advised me to go with but definitly going to do next time) the stitch line was 34 inches and i have now cuts and one little blister on a finger. I am really happy with the results and its greatly part because of your advices. so...many thanks again!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

That's great, I'm so glad you're happy with the results!

Skillz! Inspiring, thanks!

[@blue5had0w]

I love how much more complex the projects are getting. Can you build some leather pauldrons soon?

[@rosieguerrap]

Love this!!

[@Hawk74]

Great video! Easy to understand and follow along with. You're a great presenter, energetic without being annoying.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Rob and thanks for watching!

[@Hawk74]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply Chuck, I have a general question. How do you think the hobby is evolving to gain new members? I've always felt the some of the traditional Western-style type designs are dated and probably don't have a wide appeal. Those kits to make a lace stitched wallet, embossed belt, etc. seem to be stuck in time. I think messenger bags, wallets, and a few other projects have drawn in a new crowd and their interest in quality leather goods but what else do you see as an area that helps expand the hobby to new (and younger) members? I think some of the tools have gotten better, people's desire for quality and a resurgence of handcrafts, and even channels like yours help. I'd like your opinion.

[@jenniferbauman4802]

Great video. I have an old Stanley thermos from the 70s and they never had a handle on them so could you do a video on it. It would help me and other people to get an idea of how to go about doing it. I think it would make a good video. I love this channel it's been helping me a lot in my leather craft. So thank you Chuck. God bless. From Glenn CATT. In Massachusetts.

[@jonlewislive]

Thank you

[@butter92497]

You can use 1/4 plastic tube as the inner piece also.

[@navajodoll6320]

love these! i gotta replace a Louie Vuitton purse handle and this will be sooo useful!

[@TheRedbeardster]

Nice one, Chuck! Just the thing I was thinking about. Got an avancorpo sheet and planning to stitch a nice lightweight bag. Thanks!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Artem!

[@inspectorsteve2287]

Could you make a video to show what would be in a leather working starter kit? What someone would need to get started.

[@lauraweiss7875]

How did you know I was looking for a tutorial on this?

[@MK-ue6mt]

These videos are amazing! I've been looking for better ways to make handles and this is perfect! The only thing I'm looking at now for better ideas/know-how is making a dopp kitt patter and product from scratch. It would be awesome to see Chuck make one at some point.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Mike! A Dopp Kit video is pretty high on the list so it should be coming soon!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

@Matthew M It's a men's shaving bag or toiletry bag.

[@MK-ue6mt]

@Matthew M here's a link to the history behind the name. bespokeedge.com/blog/what-is-a-dopp-kit

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks, Mike!

[@MK-ue6mt]

@Matthew M, no worries. As long as we're all learning, that's what matters. :)

[@MrStefanWilken]

Nice video can you make at rolled leather dog coller

[@michaelvoshell6911]

Chuck, I've only been working leather for a couple of months, and I'm attempting to create a pattern for a leather purse for my wife. I would like to put trunk handles on it but they would attach each end to one side of the purse instead of across, so how do I make the end billets face that direction instead of the direction that they did on your example here? I hope this question makes sense as I'm still learning terminology.

[@rustybayonetcom]

I have had and have many old trunks, they never had a handle like that

[@roxannejarvis2263]

Hey Chuck, is there a place where someone could buy a pattern for all the different types of rolled handles? There are a number of styles (end sections) that are made, but I can't seem to find any good resources. I'm ready to try one. Thanks in advance!

[@scottpeever3198]

Was wondering is it possible to use a sewing machine to do a trunk handle or only hand stitching?

[@kensmith9950]

Another great video Chuck and Weaver Leather! As the projects seem to be getting a little more complex, I'd love to see something on making a briefcase similar to the one at the beginning of the video. Maybe sell a pattern for it with the leather and hardware? Also, I am assuming that you beveled only the grain side. Is that correct? Thanks!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Ken, Thanks so much for watching! Yes, I just beveled the grain side! A briefcase is on the list so hopefully soon!

[@hellorin]

+1 on the briefcase request please

[@safaa-salim-]

ممكن برنامج لعمل الباترون الحقيبة

[@charleshetrick3152]

I did this and got a fair bit of bunching on the sewing seem when I tried to curve it. Is there something I’m missing. Yours curved very nicely. Maybe my leather is too thick?

[@indaba1960]

Great video - just got a bag that needs new handles so very timely - what weight of leather do you use for your handles? Thanks for sharing

[@kensmith9950]

I'd like to know the weight as well. I'm guessing 2/3 or 3/4 oz...

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Adrian, We used 4/5 oz. in this video but it can be done with 3/4 oz. or 5/6 oz. as well. Thanks!

[@indaba1960]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply many thanks

[@stevencampbell13]

Hello Chuck I was wondering if the trunk handle pattern would apply for a cup handle using like a miniature bareback rigging handle??

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Steven, That should work just fine - that's a neat idea!

[@serecursivo806]

Para cuando los subtítulos en español maestro

[@bjpargeter466]

Hoping this works for a hammer holder

[@jayjohnson1440]

Great Video. I have a question. I purchased some of your Pull up redrock and I made a tote. Is there something that I need to do to the handles to prevent them from stretching where they are connected with revets?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Jay, There's a few things you can do, one would be to stitch the handles onto the tote - this will add strength. You can also make small washers out of the leather and put those on the inside of the bag where the rivets attach. We did this in our tote bag video, it just helps add a little bit of strength. Hope that helps! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5PLeWaco7CYg68

[@jayjohnson1440]

​@@WeaverLeatherSupply thanks, that does help. I'll give it a whirl!

[@SiMahDan]

just purchased first leatherworking toolset, abut 100 or so tools. For the sharp tools, I need a rollup pouch, probably leather/fabric combined to store the sharp tools and keep them sharp. Any ideas?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Daniel, We'll be doing a video for a chef style knife roll for knives and tools. Should be out in the next month or so. In the meantime there are lots of images online for this type of pouch that you can also get inspiration from.

[@SiMahDan]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply Thankyou☺

[@russellgibson3345]

What size cording do you recommend for a purse? I was looking at 1/4 inch or 1/8 inch but seems way to small while 1/2 inch might be too large.

[@russellgibson3345]

I know since its custom for each job it may be different but would like a starting point

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

That is always a good question because it more depends on the size of the project and the leather thickness than the handle itself. If a handle is oversized (think of a briefcase sized handle on a clutch purse) it will look out of place and if it’s too small it may look dinky/cheap compared to the rest of the project. The ½” cord is good for the briefcase level projects but I would say try a 3/8” with either a 4/5 oz. to make it a bit more substantial or a 3/4 oz. to trim the overall size down some.

[@russellgibson3345]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply thank you. Ill buy some smaller pieces and try with scrap first. Good thing i got a wife at home to tell me yay or nay on size of purse handle.

[@1justpara]

HI Chuck, would it be beneficial to dye the handle before stitching it together?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

A good question! In my opinion, it’s best to dye first. You can dye after sewing but your thread will take on the color of the dye and I’m never sure about how much the cording, or interior material, will absorb and hold dye.

[@1justpara]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply As I suspected. Many thanks. :D

[@andrewlopez314]

What oz of leather would you recommend for this!? 8-9oz?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Samuel! 4/5 oz. is what I used in the video.

[@robertalexander7661]

Good morning from Texas. Do you know of a do it yourself AWESOME leather top hat kit available for sale? Thank you.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Robert, I don't know of a kit for a top hat but there are lots of videos showing how to make them on KZbin if you want to check some of those out!

[@robertalexander7661]

@@WeaverLeatherSupply Thank you.

[@kellyhayes]

Is it Paracord you are putting in the center? If not what is it exactly and where can you get it?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Kelly, It's 3/8" nylon rope that you can find at the hardware store but you don't have to use nylon - any rope will work.

[@hellorin]

Try hardened tube of pvc, paracord or even metal cord for variety:)

[@kellyhayes]

@@hellorin Paracord is what I've been using for welting. Ill try that for handles!

[@minerblue9641]

Use copper tubing if you want to.

[@sgtevmckay]

You mean...it's not a leather handle!?!! O.o So, the cake is a lie ;) Thanks again 😊

[@GottliebGoltz]

?

[@sgtevmckay]

@@GottliebGoltz www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=the%20cake%20is%20a%20lie

[@user-ew6kl1rb5u]

How sad that the Russian Internet will soon be sold out and I will not be able to watch your channel. Very interesting and distinctly raskazyvaet all. Thank you for the experience that you share.

[@kensmith9950]

Are you able to circumvent the situation by using a VPN? It's really sad that this is happening for you. I hope you can find a way around it.

[@user-ew6kl1rb5u]

@@kensmith9950 It may be possible to get around using a VPN, the law was signed by our president and will take effect in 2020, when the Internet is being downloaded, I will try the VPN, but according to the news it was reported that the VPN servers will not even be paid. There will be an internal network only in Russia ((((I hope that I will find the opportunity to watch the channel. Also in the news goaorili that KZbin and Facebook are the first two sites that will stop working (

[@user-ew6kl1rb5u]

@@kensmith9950 Many Russian bloggers have already begun to switch to Rutub. I do not understand why our government is doing this. Even if you look from an economic point of view, Russia will incur colossal losses having gone into the internal network. Financial transfers, postal orders and parcels, chats, markets, it’s all about business. I do not understand what is happening 🤔

[@kensmith9950]

@@user-ew6kl1rb5u That is awful. I'm so sorry. Another thought would be to use the Web Browser Opera, as it has a VPN option built in. It's my preferred browser over all others. Does this also mean that the leatherworking channels from Russia that I watch will be unavailable after the law takes effect in 2020 as well?

[@samitharanasinghe4625]

There is no good equipment in the country where I live. I make small things from leather. Check out your channel. Gain a lot of knowledge. But equipment is scarce. There is not even a shop to buy in the country. We are restricted from importing. I would like to buy some good equipment. Create leather designs.