In the video above, watch as I demonstrate how the Belt Stripper is used . I will demonstrate cutting the straight edge on the hide and the belt stripper in use.
The hide I am holding above is called a Double Shoulder. Later in the video I will cut a Double Back. Both of these hides and the differences between them are explained in the first video above.
When I first began making belts, I dyed them all by hand. Leather is an animal skin and has scars and blemishes. These can show when the belt is dyed and the dye does not always come out evenly. The dye absorbs into some areas more than others. It was difficult and many a belt has been ruined because of this. Join me the week of Jan. 19 to learn more about my coloring and dying techniques.
When I lost my leather suppliers in Boston I had to look for other sources. When I discovered Weaver Leather and was pleased with their leather, I began to purchase pre-dyed hides for making plain belts from them. Belts have always been my best seller and now I save a lot of time, and mess, purchasing the double backs. The color is uniform and the hides are finished nicely both front and back!
Next week, please join me for Workshop Wednesday, LIVE at Noon, when I will demonstrate how I create the hand stamped geometric designs on belts.