1. Round Knife
The first tool you will need is a reliable knife, and a round knife will give you the versatility you need when starting out. This is one of those knives that is an icon of the trade and will be one of your favorite tools for the life of your career. 2. Exacto Knife
While we’re on the topic of knives there is one more that you should invest in from the beginning. This is an extremely useful tool for those tight corners. Considering the thin blade its only useful up until about 5 oz leather, but for small projects like wallets and bags this is perfect. 3. Stitching Needles and Thread
If you plan on doing any stitching you will need stitching needles for obvious reasons, however be sure to get blunted leather needles, since you will be punching the leather before the actual stitching. 4. Stitching Groover
This tool will both give you a straight line to follow when punching your stitching holes and will also help to counter sink your stitching to make them flat against your project. 5. Pricking Irons
You will want at least two sizes in order to tackle the long straight edges quickly, and also a two prong punch to get around corners in a professional looking way. These allow you to create stitching holes in a diamond shape that ends up making a much more professional finished product. 6. Wood Slicker
This may seem like a simple and maybe even archaic tool, but will give your work a professional look that you will need if you plan to sell any of your work. The way this works is by wetting the edge of the leather with either water, saddle soap, or gum tragacanth, and rubbing this tool along the edge to create a glassy sealed edge to your projects. 7. Size Zero Edge Beveler
In order to keep your edges from mushrooming out when burnishing with your slicker you will need to bevel your edges with this tool. There are many sizes to choose from but for your initial projects the size zero is a perfect size.
8. Scratch Awl
This tool may seem overly simple as well, but is great for marking cutting lines on the top grain of the leather, and considering the extreme inexpensive there really is no reason not to make this one of your first tools. 9. Mallet
Of course with if you want to use any stamps, or the pricking irons you will need a mallet. Most of the mallets sold at leather stores have poly, rawhide, or wood heads. If you are using metal tools I would not recommend using a steel hammer because of the damage you will do to those tools. Any tools you are investing in you will want to last a long time. 10. Cutting Mat
This is essential for any cutting, stamping, or punching. Just like how the mallet heads aren’t metal you will need a cutting surface that will not damage your blades.
I hope I've been able to help out any of you that are unsure of where to begin, and if you end up pursuing a hobby or career in leather craft, I would love to see some of your projects. If you'd like to send me some of your pictures or if you have any more questions, please feel free to send me an email at triplecreekleather@gmail.com.
Best,
Nick Rau
Founder and CEO of Triple Creek Leather
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