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KINGSMERE CRAFTS
HAND-CRAFTED LEATHER GOODS
Hand-crafted, and decorative leatherwork. How is it done? - continued
There is also the colouring and finishing to be considered. As it involves dyes, stains, acrylic paints, spirit- and water-based finishes as well as other interesting things, to bring colour and life to the article, you have to get it right. It can't be undone, though you can. Often the colour the customer wants is not the most suitable if the decorative elements are to be seen at their most advantageous. So it is very important to get that right, at the start.
Also the designs graphics can be adapted to include a name, monogram or initials. For the leatherworker it is worth bearing in mind the possibility of personalising a project, thus turning it into something that bit more special. There are various alphabet stamp sets and lettering templates available in different styles and font sizes, as well as a wide range of lettering Craftaids, so that you can trace then carve the letters, and tool them in.
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Some examples of letters and numerals available as stamps |
Though that is not as quick or easy as stamping the letters in. Sometimes though there is no option if nothing is available neither as a stamp nor a Craftaid, but to find a suitable font to the liking of the customer, trace it on to film, transfer on to the leather, and carve and tool it in. This of course gives an infinite choice to the customer, and me, lots of practice at carving quite intricate designs, with the swivel knife.
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Front view |
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| One of the commonest errors in using the swivel knife is undercutting. This is caused by leaning the hand either to the right or left whilst cutting. Remember, always keep the blade upright. Never go over cuts twice! |
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Leather is forced up on one side of the cut when making incorrect left or right undercut. |
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Incorrect Correct Incorrect |
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