Good afternoon chaps. I have taken a real interest in leather tool cases which I have only seen described as 'universal'. I have included axphoto of one that is quite nice. I also posted it in a tool case thread. I really like this style of case. Very old school and practical looking. They carry a pretty hefty retail of between 100 -350 dollars U.S. depending upon brand and model.
So like any Yank who thinks there must be a better or more economical way, could this be hand crafted for a reasonable amount of time and money? Note, I did not say cheaper. A one off model would allow some leeway in how you want the tools(or razors as may be the case) arranged. It would also allow for sizing it to your specs.
The metal frame work is not a big issue. I have already found several sources for it in various metals. Hardware is available too. So what type of leather would work well for this application? Calf? Some sort of oil tanned? I reckon it would need to be fairly heavy in weight and possibly waxed to hold its shape. Construction seems straightforward for the front and sides. Rectangular shapes riveted to the aluminium frames. It is not exactly clear to me how the back transitions to the curved top. Or how the top itself is made to hold that shape. I amalso a bit nervous about making the adjustable straps for the tools though it looks like a one piece strap weaved through slots in the back leather.
I am not so foolish as to think a novice could pull this in a few weeknights. I would need to get some schooling so to speak on cutting finishing and properly stitching leather. It has been a fewxdecades since I held an awl or leather needle. This sort of case would more utilitarian than pretty but if done properly could easily be modified to work for toiletries, razors, and with other frame metals and leather colours. Think brass and distressed leather for Steampunk. Am I off base or is it doable?
Cheers, Todd
So like any Yank who thinks there must be a better or more economical way, could this be hand crafted for a reasonable amount of time and money? Note, I did not say cheaper. A one off model would allow some leeway in how you want the tools(or razors as may be the case) arranged. It would also allow for sizing it to your specs.
The metal frame work is not a big issue. I have already found several sources for it in various metals. Hardware is available too. So what type of leather would work well for this application? Calf? Some sort of oil tanned? I reckon it would need to be fairly heavy in weight and possibly waxed to hold its shape. Construction seems straightforward for the front and sides. Rectangular shapes riveted to the aluminium frames. It is not exactly clear to me how the back transitions to the curved top. Or how the top itself is made to hold that shape. I amalso a bit nervous about making the adjustable straps for the tools though it looks like a one piece strap weaved through slots in the back leather.
I am not so foolish as to think a novice could pull this in a few weeknights. I would need to get some schooling so to speak on cutting finishing and properly stitching leather. It has been a fewxdecades since I held an awl or leather needle. This sort of case would more utilitarian than pretty but if done properly could easily be modified to work for toiletries, razors, and with other frame metals and leather colours. Think brass and distressed leather for Steampunk. Am I off base or is it doable?
Cheers, Todd
