The Leather Element: Choosing the Right Cut of Leather

[@jsmxwll]

Whenever i am reading the descriptions on the website, i hear then in your voice lol.

[@Robert-xp4ii]

Nothing better than watching Chuck talk leather while I'm waiting on the FedEx truck with 19.5 ft2 of 6-7oz veg tan and 1/4" and 5/16" solid brass double cap rivets. (From Weaver's of course.) Feels like Christmas!

[@bubba19k]

Not only are you a invaluable help to leather crafters everywhere but your videos genuinely brighten my day! I hope to be able to meet you someday.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Wow, thank you!

[@kasraabasi9779]

Hello chuck and thank you weaver. I learned a lot from you and your tutorials are the first and last stop for me. Literally I learned leather craft from you and I don’t know how to thank you. Your energetic voice and enthusiastic speaking, pushing me forward each and every time😉. In the old days, probably I had to go work in a shop for 5-6 years as a beginner to gather this knowledge, but you are giving them easy, fast and generously. Every time I’m going to do something wrong in my shop i almost feel you there with me and you are whispering in my ears the correct way to do it. I hope someday i would be able to shake your hand in person.

[@TheGuyBruv]

I'm just getting into leatherworking and this video perfectly answered my questions. I really needed to SEE in scale how big each of these cuts were

[@gabrieldmarin7466]

i LOVE the sales pitch because this side is GORGEOUS.

[@richardkatzman1215]

Chuck your “Element” videos are always worth watching. I can always take worthwhile quality information away from watching your videos. Any extra quality leather you want to get rid of, you know you can always send to me. Ha ha. Best regards, Richard

[@lukemorris261]

Fantastic information for someone really new but wanting to learn more. Thanks a ton Chuck!

[@ccsnalz]

Thx for all your videos. They are very educational and informative. Into leather for a year now. Wanting to know as much as possible. Thx Chuck

[@caster2534]

Thanks for this video. It helped me tremendously.

[@ArcticFlies56]

This video says it plainly and gives crafters the best ideas of what’s available. Space is a huge factor for me so using the smaller hides is the right choice for me. Thanks Chuck.

[@SP-fy4fx]

Great information, as always! I love that Weaver gives 3" samples of many of the leathers offered. I'm new to leathercrafting, the sample gives me an idea of the dye and flexibility of the leather. Thanks!

[@edgarhilton136]

Great video you answered a lot of the questions I had thank you

[@jeffshannon]

love your tutorials. have learned alot. I have a suggestion for a Leather Element. putting the bottom in a cylindrical object, and allowing for enough leather on the bottom to sew it to the cylinder.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi there, see if this video helps! kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpTLmaGCac2gfNE

[@mrjw1960]

Thanks Chuck! You and your team always put out great videos! You all are why I started leatherworking and really appreciate the knowledge you are passing on!!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much, James!

[@ProcreateVideosLeavittCreative]

This was also an extremely helpful video, thank you so much!

[@patch_werks]

Love your upbeat attitude and I always learn something new from your videos, thanks so much!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

So good to hear - thank you!

[@christianmatchett1442]

Thank you Chuck for your comprehensive overview. As a new crafter, looking at cuts for sale online has been tough to understand and visualize. This video, like all of your others, hit the spot!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Great to hear, so glad it was helpful!

[@Starcoffin]

Your videos are what cemented my interest into getting into leather working. With years worth of videos made, nearly all questions a new person like myself could have have been answered on this channel.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Wow, thank you!

[@river8142]

This was super helpful and easy to follow. Thank you!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad it was helpful! You're welcome!

[@duxallinarow]

Well that's one more mystery cleared up by Chuck. I always thought there was a quality or weight difference, inn different cuts and so was hesitant to buy thinking I'd make a mistake. Problem solved - just buy the piece that fits my workspace and projects.

[@drakeybabe]

It always brightens my day seeing a new Leather Element video! Thanks Chuck

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@chadwickpainter8212]

You are a great guy! I am just getting started and have been watching a lot of these videos. Thank you so much. You are such a great guy and do so well with instructions and your energy gets me ready to get working.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much, I'm so glad the videos are helpful!

[@bobheaney211]

Excellent video again Chuck, looking forward to Wednesday already 👍 Could you do an Leather Element on chrome tan project ideas, add it to the growing list maybe?...

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Absolutely, thanks for the suggestion!

[@bobheaney211]

@@WeaverLeatherSupplyThat would be awesome, good luck with that project!😁

[@Kainosktisis]

You mentioned that belt makers prefer one direction across the hide instead of the length of the hide because it stretches less? that's a new thought for me, in leather is that similar to wood grain in strength length v.cross grain? Could you elaborate in a short video, Thanks great info!

[@thelivestocklounge2857]

Always helpful info Chuck! Wish I’d known this earlier in my leatherworking life.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much!

[@michaelsantana5781]

Thanks Chuck, was really confused about this. Great videos.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad to help

[@ArcticFlies56]

Chuck, great video!! Now it makes more sense to me. When you first start out it’s a guessing game. What leather should I purchase? What do I need?

[@bimaajiwibowo923]

You are the best teacher who has ever teach me something Chuck!!, everything you explain is all i want and need to know with a crystal clear info and instructions, im in the notification squad cos i dont ever want to miss anything you post. Please post frequently, im very blessed that i could learn from you in this free platform.. Cheers!! (pardon my english, not my mother tongue)

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much, so glad the videos are helpful!

[@jmadara]

I was just wondering the difference. Thanks for the video.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful!

[@jimfraley4135]

Hi, Love your videos and enthusiasm. One thing I still don't quite have a handle on is when to use what for an edge treatment. Sometimes it seems water is okay, and other times Gumtrag is used. I've also seen videos (on other channels) of people using what looks like saddle wax (or something along those lines). I think a leather element all about edge treatments would be super helpful. Thanks, and keep the videos coming!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Jim, We can definitely make note of your suggestion! There are a lot of different options out there for edge work and a lot is going to be up to your personal preference. I would suggest experimenting with some and seeing what works best for you. Gum tragacanth is what I tend to use and probably the most common but some people swear by beeswax, saddle soap or tokonole.

[@charlessullivan8861]

Hello Chuck. Love the videos, and the obvious passion you have for leather working as well as the energy you put into all your videos! I have a suggestion for a leather element... I am new to leather working and cannot find much in the way of protecting my projects from the outdoor elements, especially rain. I would like to see an in depth look at how I can protect my projects, inside and out. Maybe even talk about the design of things like pouches that are going to be used outdoors, like should there be drain holes in the bottom? How can I protect the inside and outside from water? Is it the same for both sides? Can you cover items I can buy as well as budget friendly ways to do it?

[@TheTranq]

Thanks Chuck! Just uploaded the video of my first leather project thanks to you!

[@dahooman2185]

I recently made a knife sheath from leather, really fun, planning on getting some more

[@sagesmith8443]

Thank you Chuck!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@PeteSudlow]

Fantastic information! Thanks, Chuck!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Blove0130]

Always learn from your videos!!! Thanks Chuck :)

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you so much!

[@terrypach1664]

Very positive and generous

[@mainstreat]

Awesome info as always. Whats the best way to store your leather?

[@rustybayonetcom]

I started with bellies and still love them

[@mikeboone4425]

Great info . Happy trails

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks, you too!

[@thefamily_ak1863]

Thank you , thatfinnaaly cleared us up on cuts , much appreciated, from an apprentice bladesmith

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you for watching!

[@BJP1973LEEDS]

Hi Chuck, congratulations 👍for all the videos which make our life easier . I’m a fervent subscriber from Uk. I have a question . Are there any way ( directions) we have to follow on for reproducing the pattern onto leather according a grain line like we would use on fabric with naps. In another word can we cut 2 identical pieces of leather in 2 different directions. Thank you . Long longevity to your show.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Jean, Yes, you can absolutely cut two pieces in different directions and it should not have any affect.

[@jrtime228]

Great video as always! I'm new to leather crafting and I have decided on gaining experience with leather accessories but I lack the knowledge and have found several issues in my few projects that I have completed. If there isn't already a video for it, could you possibly do one as a general overview of the do's and don'ts of leather accessory making? For context, edging & burnishing, adding things like a metal "decoration", such as a round military service branch "pin" (for a lack of a better word for it), to smaller leather accessory such as a keychain, and making functional loops for keychains specifically, are what I have had trouble with.

[@brotherBvideos]

I subbed, what an excellent video w examples, this is great, thank u, I had no idea about belly.. thank you.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thanks so much!

[@olenoname1445]

Thanks chuck I love you

[@FredMcIntyre]

Thanks for the info Chuck! 😃👍🏻👊🏻

[@daverooni7763]

Thanks Chuck!

[@thomasbaker3249]

Thank you do much for enlightenment. 👏👏👏👏

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, Thomas!

[@rishabhshukla5354]

I m waiting for this video from a long time!!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@archiem6323]

Wow, great information to make better decisions when buying leather. Thank for explaining this. -zone34

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JohnPaulSaylor]

Could you guys do a video on making a watch strap? All the videos on KZbin all have no voice over and just music. Thanks for the great content!

[@AlexSullivan]

DANG!! I worked for Tandy Leather for 3 years and I must say the size of the hides you are showing are frickin huge!!!! Do you ship to the UK?

[@justinloudermilk5693]

Is there anywhere that I can buy a stack of leather samples? One piece in every thickness. That would be great to see and choose what thickness of leather I want to buy for a project.

[@mananantcorp104]

Yes

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Justin, You can order a sample of each weight on our website here: www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/s04-530s/weaver-select-strap/pr_56784/cp_/shop-now/leather/leather-samples This is just a natural veg tan example in the link above but would give you weights from 2/3 - 10/11. No charge for these.

[@Lorddanielrushton371]

Thank you for showing us the different sizes. I would like one of each lol

[@Onion198]

You're videos are great and I'm actually looking to get started in leather work. I bought a remnant bag but all of the leather is wrinkled and creased. What would you recommend to relax the leather?

[@michaelrussell9890]

Hey Chuck great video. I was wondering what type of leather would I choose to make a nice supple pouch? Like a coin pouch?

[@kristieprice8842]

Thank you!😊

[@scottecooke]

Thanks that makes more sense now.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Thank you, glad it was helpful!

[@christopherhaas7739]

I love watching these videos as I always learn something. Can anyone tell me what the veg is in veg tan? Tree bark, roots, corn stalks? Inquiring minds want to know! Ha ha.

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Christopher, It's usually tree bark.

[@jackmoler9271]

I am wanting to make a cell phone holster that will hang off of my two wheeled walker. What do you recommend for leather weight? I was told to use a 3 to 4 oz leather.

[@MacAttack001]

Great video, thanks for posting it!

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@turtleman190]

Do you have a video in how to break down a side of veg tanned i can only buy sides in my area and want to know how to break them down into the most useful cuts

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi there! It depends a lot on what you are making. If you're going to be needing straps, then I suggest cutting those first, starting along the spine of the hide. This is the best part of the hide and longest length so it's great for belts or straps of any kind. Cut as many straps as you think you will need and then you'll have to think about what else will be made from the hide. Laying your patterns on the hide is a good way to gauge how to best cut all the pieces with as little waste as possible. Hope that helps!

[@ProcreateVideosLeavittCreative]

Is it unwise to buy the side and cut down to the sizes you want?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

No, not at all! This is just explaining all the different cuts. If you're not going to be using a certain area of the hide, like the belly or the neck, then I wouldn't recommend getting an entire side but if you can use it all then a side is a great option.

[@fdghn4567]

What would be the best grade for a straight razor strop? would I use full or top grain? I'm planning on making a 3" wide paddle strop and a 2" or 2 - 2.1/2" hanging strop.

[@pauleysink9659]

whats is the difference and better for us crafters: Cow (buffalo/Bizon??) , pigskin? Are these equally suitable for wallets, belys, holsters? etc?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Paul, Pigskin is best for liners because of how thin it is. As far as belts, cowhide and buffalo or water buffalo will work as long as it's a heavier weight and has some body. You don't want anything soft and stretchy for belts. For holsters, I would say cowhide so it can be wet molded or you can use an exotic leather exterior glued to a veg tan inner. We have a guide to which leather should I use for what project, we'll link it here if you would like to take a look: www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/cp_/shop-by-project/choosing-leather

[@TheReddeadmovie]

can i make a holster and bullet belt out of chrome leather ?

[@carnotrankine]

I was looking for a veg tan to make a jacket and what to line it with.

[@chrishoover7696]

Great video! A question though: how do you feel about using beeswax in your leatherworking?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Chris, Beeswax is a great option for edge work as well as a top coat if you're looking to add a weatherproof top coat to your project.

[@christophergould3673]

Hi were can I get one of your t/shirts Hi from England

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Christopher! We'll link the shirt Chuck is wearing below: www.weaverleathersupply.com/catalog/item-detail/93035-40-33/weaver-leathercraft-imagine/pr_61730

[@talberttipton8269]

What type of leather will be good for pocket organizer

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Talbert, If you're going to be wet forming it, then definitely veg tan leather. I'm not really familiar with the product but from what I'm seeing online, maybe around 4 oz. for the weight of the leather.

[@stuartsmith4882]

What about Butts and double Butts, being the opposite end to the shoulder....

[@kathydennis8131]

What direction do I cut leather?

[@danieloates2314]

How do you square a hide I have trouble with squaring

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Daniel, You can do this using a long straight edge or straight piece of wood clamped to your table and you just cut along the edge. Or if you have a wooden strap cutter, check out this video one of customers did for squaring up a hide: instagram.com/tv/CANpakhlMae/? If you don't have a long enough table to do this, Weaver can actually put a straight edge on your hide for you for a little bit extra, just give us call when you place your order and we'll make a note to do that for you.

[@etelainenleathercraft]

I'm leaning good info.. Malaysian crafter...

[@kathydennis8131]

How do I cut my leather for projects?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi Kathy, You can use anything from a box cutter to a rotary cutter. The most important thing is that you want a sharp blade. Which knife you ultimately choose is personal preference and what feels comfortable in your hand, Chuck uses a box cutter with a new blade every time he started on a new project. You can always start with a box cutter or utility knife and then try other knives as you do more leatherwork to see what works for you. Just make sure it has a sharp blade :) Hope that helps!

[@onojapiusdaniel5505]

I AM FROM NIGERIA , HOW DO I GET THESE TOOLS DELIVERED TO MY COUNTRY . I NEED TO KNOW THE VARIOUS PRICE. CAN YOU DESING MY SHOP NAME LOGO FOR ME TO USE ON MY VARIOUS PRODUCTS ?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Hi there, We don't make logo dies here at Weaver, we would recommend Stamp Yours for your logo die: stampyours.com/ Any of the tools and materials used in the videos can be purchased from our website, pricing depends on the item you are looking for. We will link our website here for you: www.weaverleathersupply.com/

[@caotico9014]

Do you ship to Latin America?

[@WeaverLeatherSupply]

Yes, we ship worldwide!

[@vieuxacadian9455]

Have You ever worked with natural brain tanned leather ( buffalo , elk , deer ) ?

[@eagleeyedpsycho]

There are more cuts than I thought.

[@55418und]

Bible cover. Dark Olive green

[@rustybayonetcom]

I'm a side buyer

[@TheLupulalb]

You talk about belly skin, and you suggest beginners look at it because it's cheap, yes! it is cheap, but instead the worst skin, for beginners I have one piece of advice !!! do not buy poor quality leather, the product will come out bad and you end up blaming your skill not on the quality of materials and leather, you may be discouraged from working in leather, and working with leather really has charm, than throwing money on products cheap of any quality better not buy, especially until you learn what each skin is suitable for ... do you want a quality product? buy quality products, you can't make quality with a poor quality raw material

[@hugereductions]

What about covering oxbows with leather? Love your site. Many thanks.

[@alocasio5896]

How does stiffness vary between cuts of the same hide? Granted it was all the same weight?