Decided to make a few strops

[redhead shaver]

So I got tired of restoring brushes and thought I would try my hand at making a few strops. From left to right you have Bullhide with hemp webbing, chocolate latigo with a old seatbelt, english bridle with hemp, and finally cowhide with hemp.
I am fairly pleased with how they turned out. They all have a very different feel. Surprising to me the Latigo has the least draw, then the Bullhide, then the English bridle, then the cowhide. I think the latigo will get more draw as it breaks in.
My only complaint is the second components, I wish the hemp had a tighter weave, then it would be very nice.

Here are the pics. Let me know what you guys think. Sorry about the poor quality photos, my camera is cheap and I can't even take good photos with a nice camera.

 

[blackman]

I think they look great man. I admire your ingenuity.

 

[redhead shaver]

Thanks AJ.

 

[blackman]

Of course. I really like the look of the bullhide. In what order did you make them? Bullhide first and then decided you prefer the barber's cut? Any important tips you learned through the progression that you can offer? Thanks Curtis.

 

[redhead shaver]

I did make the bullhide first. I always had a barber's cut strop so I wanted to try a d ring. I decided I liked the barber's cut better, so the rest I just made with the barber's cut. Making them with the barbers cut saves on materials and time also.

I don't really have any tips because I didn't go fancy with them at all, I just made them functional. They do perform very well, even the hemp second component that I was worried about is working like a charm. If it had a tighter weave it would be perfect.

My only tip would be if you can go to inspect the leather in person, that would be a huge advantage. I didn't do this and had to do a lot of work, ( especially on the bullhide and latigo) to get the surface smooth and get the draw I was looking for.
I am still a bit stumped when it comes to the latigo. I thought latigo would have a heavier draw, but this one is a very light draw. I am not complaining because it does a fantastic job, it's just not what I was expecting.

I am going to make a few more next year. This time I am going to a local tannery to pick out the hide I want. I am learning more about doing finishing touches that make the strop more pleasing to the eye, as well as improving their performance.