How To Make A Handmade Wallet Using EXOTIC LEATHER - Leather Craft Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make a handmade wallet using exotic leather, specifically glazed ostrich leg leather combined with natural vegetable-tanned leather. This project is perfect for those interested in leather crafting and looking to create a sleek, minimalist money clip wallet. We’ll walk through every step of the process, from preparing templates to finishing touches.

Step 1: Gather Tools and Materials

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials:

Materials

• Ostrich leg leather (2-3 oz)
• Natural vegetable-tanned leather (3-4 oz)
• Nickel spring money clip bar

Tools

• Cutting tools: Kobalt box cutter, X-ACTO knife
• Hammers: Barry King tapered maul, leather hammer
• Stitching tools: KS blade punch, needles, black Ritza Tiger thread
• Finishing supplies: Fiebing’s Pro Dye, mink oil, cotton pads

Tips

• Prepare a clean workspace to keep all tools and materials organized.
• Double-check that you have all materials before beginning the project.

Step 2: Create Cardboard Templates

Create templates for each part of the wallet using cardboard. Here are the templates you need to make:

1. Template-A: Ostrich outer main panel
2. Template-B: Veg-tan inner main panel
3. Template-C: Outer card pocket layer
4. Template-D: Inner card pocket layer
5. Template-E: Ostrich inlay panel
6. Template-F: Inlay backing piece

Practical Advice

• Use a pen and metal ruler to ensure accurate measurements.
• Check the dimensions provided in the video for guidance.

Step 3: Cut the Leather Pieces

Using the templates, cut the leather pieces carefully:

1. Place the template on the leather.
2. Use a rotary cutter or craft knife for clean edges.
3. Be mindful of grain direction when cutting ostrich leather.

Common Pitfalls

• Avoid rushing the cutting process; precision is key.
• Ensure your cutting tools are sharp for the best results.

Step 4: Dye and Finish Leather

Prepare the leather for dyeing:

1. Use a foam brush to apply Fiebing’s Pro Dye (black).
2. Allow the dye to dry completely.
3. Apply mink oil for conditioning.

Tips

• Test the dye on a scrap piece of leather first.
• Use gloves to prevent staining your hands.

Step 5: Assemble the Main Wallet Panel

Assemble the main wallet panel as follows:

1. Position Template-A (outer panel) and Template-B (inner panel) together.
2. Use EcoWeld contact adhesive to secure the pieces.
3. Clamp them if necessary to ensure a tight bond.

Practical Advice

• Ensure edges align perfectly before applying glue.

Step 6: Assemble Card Pockets

Follow these steps to prepare and attach card pockets:

1. Glue the outer card pocket layer (Template-C) to the inner card pocket layer (Template-D).
2. Allow the glue to set before proceeding.

Step 7: Trim and Stitch Card Pockets

Trim the card pocket using Template-G for precise dimensions.

1. Use the KS blade punch to create stitching holes.
2. Stitch the card pockets using a saddle stitch technique.

Tips

• Use a stitching pony to hold the leather securely while stitching.
• Keep your stitches consistent in size and spacing.

Step 8: Attach Card Pockets to the Main Panel

Attach the card pockets to the main wallet panel:

1. Position the stitched card pockets on the inner panel.
2. Glue and stitch them securely in place.

Step 9: Stitch the Wallet Together

With all components in place, stitch the wallet body together.

1. Use the diamond pricking irons to mark stitching holes along the edges.
2. Stitch using the same saddle stitch technique.

Step 10: Create the Hardware Pocket and Install Money Clip

1. Create a pocket for the money clip using the remaining leather.
2. Install the nickel spring money clip bar securely in the pocket.

Conclusion

Congratulations on creating your handmade wallet using exotic leather! You've learned how to prepare templates, cut, dye, assemble, and finish a sleek money clip wallet. For your next steps, consider experimenting with different leather types, colors, or custom tooling designs to make your wallet truly unique. Happy crafting!