GLOSSARY

Punching holes at rounded corners

On curves, a chisel with many prongs will stray off the line, so punch the holes with a 2-prong or 1-prong chisel to follow the curve.

How to bond with solvent-based adhesives (rubber cement, G17, Diabond, etc.)

Apply a thin coat so the adhesive doesn't spill past the bonding surface; once it has dried slightly, press the pieces together with the edges aligned.

How to cut circles (large)

When cutting curves, turn the leather rather than the blade as you cut.

How to wax thread

Press the thread against the wax and pull it through repeatedly, until it is stiff enough to stand up when you hold the end.

How to sew a cross stitch

A cross stitch is used when sewing edges together edge to edge, for example when making a tubular piece.

Applying edge finish

Apply an edge finish such as Tokopro to the sanded edge, then burnish with a slicker or a piece of canvas.

Finishing synthetic thread (Vinymo, etc.) by melting

Synthetic threads such as Vinymo can also be finished off by melting the ends.

Punching holes along the edge

Following the guideline you drew, set the chisel against the leather—taking care its blades do not cut it—to mark the positions, then punch the holes.

Cutting with a utility knife

Align a ruler with the marked line and hold the blade at a right angle to the leather so the cut edge does not slant.