steveb leatherworks: the blather

Yea maaaan, this is the kind of email i like to get. Goose was a customer some many long years ago and had me make kind of a matching set, a wallet and a belt for him. As you know, my work isn’t inexpensive, I knew Goose was a  working man and appreciated his appreciation of the value of my work. Why is the that the hardworking guys are never the ones to try and haggle?

Gooses!

Goose was a regular at Cycle Fab, Dave Perewitz’s shop, and since I am a New Englander, it made sense that I take a ride up to visit the shop, meet him and capture some images. It was a good trip, I dug Dave, Goose and the shop.

Steve,  Seven years and it still looks new!  You make a damn “fin”  wallet and belts!!  I wear it daily and it has been great.  I think I should buy another wallet in the this belt’s color.  You got anything? Let me know. Thanks again!!! Goose

People -that’s really what its about, eh? Leather is just the reason we connect, but in the end, it really is about people. I’ve got some super great, loyal customers – who over years have seen my work evolve – and thats pretty cool. The way i see it, I am coming into some kind of groove in terms of leatherwork and am [lanning to stretch in some new directions this year…

Stay tuned and thanks!

and hey – Goose, I am happy to make you a new wallet. I have some new designs since last time you took a look!

Well, giving stuff away is a shiteload more work than I had anticipated, but I have a winner of giveaway #1 – the keyclip/fob that’s been pictured a few times over the last week.

I had asked that folks : do three things: follow me, repost a post,  and tag any of my posts (#stevebleatherworks) in any of the social media channels over the last week.
I am active in : Instagram, Flickr, Tumblr, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.

Although the “ask” is a little different for each channel, you get the drift.
Liking an image was not enough to get you in the drawing,
If you already follow me, you had to at  least repost and tag.

So the winner is from Instagram: @gypsyatheart8

thanks for the support and get in touch so I can send you your fob!

I am going to do this again in a week, so please stay tuned and if you like my work, please “share”!

thx!

Giveaway Fob

The Icon is a one-of-a-kind custom sheath case partnered up with a brand new Leatherman (the best) Rebar tool (also the best of their offering).

This setup is made from the best, domestically made and sourced materials, by hand, by yours truly. Icon case is a serious piece of utility and fashion.

This is a neat design that really keeps safe and holds your tool and will will last a lifetime, if you don’t soak it in water repeatably or flog it mercilessly…. This wallet has a brass cool brass skull snap= and is super duty – its just a serious piece of kit. The case is fully lined, double stitched, glued and riveted. Like I said – this is serious – for the cost – it should be.

BUY THE ICON HERE

You know a guy who likes leather (haha) a guy who likes having a tool on his belt?

You know a guy who like a bit of style in a special place. – then get it for him, this is for you.
BUY THE ICON HERE

about the Leatherman Rebar:
With the new Rebar, Leatherman fans will immediately recognize the iconic box-like shape found in Tim Leatherman’s original PST design. The Rebar pliers have been optimized for strength and feature replaceable wire/hard-wire cutters—a first for a four-inch tool from Leatherman. With all the features to get even the toughest jobs done, in a smaller, slimmer size, the new Rebar is sure to be an instant hit on job sites and home projects the world over.

the Icon

BUY THE ICON HERE

If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason….you can read through all the granular details on my steveb.biz website.

If you want to know how my customers like the work I’ve done for them, please take a look:
http://steveb.biz/notes/

Lots of info here:
http://steveb.biz/info.html

If you carry a Mini Maglight for work – this is for you.
It’s a pretty handy unit and has more style than the webbing junk that comes with Maglights.

BUY The Black Masked Robber HERE

Honestly – those webbing things will outlive roaches, so I cant say with any degree of accuracy that these will last forever – but know this: every piece is doubled up, stitched and glued.

The rivets are #9 copper stake rivets, the leather that covers the light has a basket weave pattern stamped onto it it and that piece is lined with anothjer piece of leather that both protects the light and insures this stinkeroo will last a good long time… with that said, this case is going to be tight to your belt when you get it….remember things only loosen and stretch with age, so you want your light tight on your belt on day one.

If I needed to carry a light on my belt everyday – this is what I’d use – hung from one of my belts of course..lol!

BUY The Black Masked Robber HERE
Batteries included – and yes – the Maglights have a steveb exclusive custom mix and match color pattern

I also make knife and tool sheaths from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide. I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing. If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I have happy customers, please take a look:

http://steveb.biz/notes/

for more general info:

http://steveb.biz/info.html

BUY The Black Masked Robber HERE

Win this keyclip: For the next week repost and tag my pictures #steveb_leatherworks and i will select a winner next Friday. Check!

BUY IT HERE<<<<<

the wookees wicked sheath & tool is a one-of-a-kind custom sheath case partnered up with a brand new Leatherman (the best) Rebar tool (also the best of their offering).

This sheath/case is made from the best, domestically made and sourced materials, by hand, by yours truly. The wookees wicked sheath & tool is a serious piece of utility and fashion, that sure as hell will stand the test of time.

I used a piece of 6oz veg tan in the front, and the back portion is made from 10oz -very substantial – and reasonably beefy – not overboard. Everything I make is lined,and this is no exception, its lined with mission grain pigskin, sewn with American sourced thread, on an American made sewing machine.

This is a neat design that really keeps safe and holds your tool securely- and be assured will last a lifetime, if you don’t soak it in water repeatably or flog it mercilessly…. This sheath has a brass cool brass skull snap= and is super duty – its just a serious piece of kit. – youll not see anything like it anywhere else… and if you do, please let me know!

Hey gift givers – do you know a guy who likes leather (haha) a guy who likes having a tool on his belt? You know a guy who likes a bit of style and utility – then get it for him, this is for you.

BUY IT HERE<<<<<
about the Leatherman Rebar: the BRAND NEW tool that is included……

With the new Rebar, Leatherman fans will immediately recognize the iconic box-like shape found in Tim Leatherman’s original PST design. The Rebar pliers have been optimized for strength and feature replaceable wire/hard-wire cutters—a first for a four-inch tool from Leatherman. With all the features to get even the toughest jobs done, in a smaller, slimmer size, the new Rebar is sure to be an instant hit on job sites and home projects the world over.

——– – – – – – – – – – – – – – ——– – – – – – – – – – – – – – ——– – – – – – – – – – – – –

If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason….you can read through all the granular details on my steveb.biz website.

If you want to know how my customers like the work I’ve done for them, please take a look:
http://steveb.biz/notes/

 
BUY IT HERE<<<<<

OK, here is the deal – I make a belt made around the buckle set featured. The set includes – both custom belt and this buckle.

BUY THE SHINEY HINEY NOW!
The custom, one-off belt will be made to your waist measurements (based on a specific measurement) and around the the buckle set pictured here.

 
The belt will have a stamped design . Take a look at my work to get a sense of what I can do, and we will take it from there!

I will cut the belt from the very best domestically made 8-10 oz vegetable tanned leather. The belt will be lined with mission grain pigskin and stitched with domestically sourced nylon thread, giving it a resilience to stretching, sweating and wear.

About the buckle (the Shiny Hiney:) this buckle is a nickel silver unit – a real nice very polished casting- looks great with Black or Brown’s.

This buckle set will accommodate a 1.5″ wide belt

BUY THE SHINEY HINEY NOW!

I also make knife and tool sheaths from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide. I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing. If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I have happy customers, please take a look:

http://steveb.biz/notes/

For the next week, follow me  @stevebleatherworks repost, reblog, tag #stevebleatherworks share or Like my posts and I will enter you for a drawing (10/24) to give away a key clip/fob. Thanks

BUY THE SHINEY HINEY NOW!

Hey now! This crisp Fall air is making me all warm and fuzzy – perfect time for a giveaway.

Win this brand new, handmade belt keyclip (the penny is a 1963 vintage)!  The clip is really old, Japanese sourced nickel plate- very heavy plate and a strong spring make this a secure place for your keys.

For the next week: repost, retweet, reblog, share, etc and  tag my daily post:  @steveb_leatherworks or #steveb_leatherworks

Next Friday, I will randomly select, and announce a winner from: FB, IG, Tumblr, Twt, Pinterest and Google+ and ship it out!

Thanks for the bumps and good luck.

steveb

Giveaway Fob

Pocket wallets, my own design – a staple of my stock for years – still a winner – still as handy as ever.  I make each myself, by hand.

I don’t make them much anymore, and wanting to keep affordable things in stock, i thought I’d revisit them, with a fresh eye. Simplify them a little bit, lowered the cost, etc… I really do want more people carrying my goods and I know cost is a barrier to entry, so here ya go!

This series of pocket wallet sare  pretty cool, pretty different – a little rough, a little sophisticated, super deep colors – these will age wonderfully. I suspect the colors will blend and overall will fade over time. I was pretty heavy handed with the topcoat, so they should keep their shine and be tough for a long time.

Made from veg-tan leather and lined, these are tough and good looking. Snaps are  brass snap – simple and durable.

BUY POCKET WALLETS HERE

Pocket wallet/ card cases hold a few credit cards, some business cards – this is not a “Costanza” (check “Seinfeld) and if you stuff it like George would, you will rip it. Take a few cards, not a stack – fold a few bills into the money clip and you are set. Let me say something about fit here… this case is tight, things are not loose or sloppy – like I said tight.

Why, you might ask?

Well leather stretches, and better to start tight, IMSHO, and work your way to loose over time.. rather than starting off loose and getting sloppy. if you really cant handle the tightness, stuff it full of those “fake credit cards, the gift ones – take the stuffed wallet – and run it under warm water until it is pretty wet – then let it air dry (NO SUN or heat guns!!) for 3 days – hang it to dry, let it dry naturally, pull out the cards when you are done, and you will be rewarded with a form fit piece of kit, you had a hand in customizing.

The money clip on the back of this unit is a killer – you will NOT bend it or break it – guaranteed. That alone is worth the price of admission!

A good money clip is a rare, and this is the one you’ve always wanted, its a Duckbill!
Handily – the clip is removable from the case- if you ever want to “decouple”.

So there you have it, the Pocket Wallet – fresh new edition!

LADIES, LADIES – remember, this isn’t for Mens only! – this is for you too, you can throw this in your purse -it is a handy – “cash and cards” solution!

slipper wallets from SteveB

These are unique, one of a kind wallets, made of great quality American-tanned veg tan and I’ve treated it in my own special way – it feels good in the hand. The Baskety Boy has a really deep basketweave pattern hand stamped into it a cool red/mahogany/black fade dye job going on…

My customers have asked me time and time again to come up with a wallet, a card case, something simple, that’s not a big deal to make, that I can sell for less than triple digits. Not everyone digs having a money clip I’ve come to learn and a lot of guys and gals just want a slip case they can stick a few credit cards, license and a few business cards into. They wanted something that feels good to carry in front or back pocket and that has some “steveb” style to it.

I’ve seen things like this and for the most part what I’ve seen looks like die cut crap that could be (and probably was) machine made – no character, no soul- plain leather, with none of the flourishes (and inconsistencies) you’d expect if a person with two-hands made it.

Well, I don’t do mass production and I am not interested in die-cutting my designs. You don’t want that, I don’t want that and so I started experimenting and came up with I think will make everyone happy. The Slipper!

I call these wallet units – slipper wallets. You can slip cards in and out and it slips simply into your pocket – and its of a heavy enough leather so I can stamp it deeply and it feels good in the hand (and pocket)). in this first series of 7, each has my signature red thread showing through on it’s front. The colors are my usual kooky blends and fades – that will get mellow and interesting as they age.

Buy Slipper Wallets here<<

Made from 6oz veg-tan leather and lined on one side (on the inside) with a patch of suede to add some substance and provide a point of friction for the cards you carry these are tough and good looking. each one is different. It measures 4″ long and 2.75 inches wide.

Of all of the things I make, these types of things are probably the most handy and useful. I carry mine everyday – when I don’t to use or need a money clip. The slipper wallet hold 6 credit cards, your license a few business cards.

if you are looking for a full size wallet, or something similar to the Slipper Wallet with a tough money clip built in I make those too – that’s the Pocket Wallet. I fabricate a few styles of full size, “biker style” chain wallets. I also make knife and tool sheaths, phone and PDA cases from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide.

Buy Slipper Wallets here<<
I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing – so if you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I also make belts, tough belts that will last a lifetime – and if you re so inclined, I invite you to read through all the granular details in my steveb.biz guestbook

my dirty shop door, they’ll look much better on yours!

Meet the Doorbell-ian!

The doorbell-ian (doorbell) is a special one-off series that I’ve made for this upcoming gift giving season. This is something new for me and I hope you like it! Each unit has a decorative penny concho that’s dated , if that’s of any significance to you, go for it!

Even in the digital world, we, for the most part have doors in our lives. I think most of us would agree, that most of these doors would benefit from some sort of an advance warning device, that would let us know that a person was coming through the door.

Great for: office, shop, garage, kitchen, front door. I showed it in use on my dirty shop door, not exactly a fine showcase, but give me a break, and please pretend its a gritty GUESS or Chanel ad, or something, ok?

Now many of the doorbell devices I’ve seen of this sort are the loud, cowbelly kind of things that make you jump (both the proprietor as well as visitor) – and I hate that, so these are not that type of obnoxious – they have a muted, nice sound – not tuned, but nice. These bells, many of them sparkly, are to reflect the season in which they are given – so they have a slight Festivus thing going on.

BUY THE DOORBELLIAN ON ETSY HERE <

OK _ so now lets talk Bells. There are many folks who take bells super seriously and collect these beauties – for age, aesthetics and sound. The bells on my doorbell-ians are not of this type, they are not this fancy, But if you are so inclined and you are a bell collector, you can cut these bells off and restring it with your very best bells! Have at it!

SPARKLY

good for year round hell raising

These doorbells have been cut from the very best domestically made 10oz , vegetable tanned leather. The doorbells are lined with mission grain pigskin and stitched with domestically sourced nylon thread.

The doorbells hang from the softest, toughest deerskin, cut into a thong, provided by a hide from one of my customers: Boomer. You can adjust the length of the thong to suit your application.

The deerskin runs through a brass grommet with a classy vintage patina (not shiny, and new). I use only the best dyes, hardware and threads – and a ton of information is available on my web site.

http://steveb.biz/info.html

I also make knife and tool sheaths from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide. I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing. If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I have happy customers, please take a look:

http://steveb.biz/notes/

BUY THE DOORBELLIAN ON ETSY HERE <

Check out my Social Media channels and follow me there – click on the links on the left to make it happen!

steveb leatherworks: the king belt

OK, here is the deal – I make a belt made around the buckle set featured. The set includes – both a custom belt and this buckle. The custom, one-off belt will be made to your waist measurements (based on my diagram) and around the the buckle set pictured right here.
BUY THE KING HERE
The belt will have a stamped design similar (or not if you want something specific) to what you see above in the sample pictures. Take a look at my work (on this site or here on ETSY) to get a sense of what I can do, and we will take it from there!
I will cut the belt from the very best domestically made 8-10 oz vegetable tanned leather. The belt will be lined with mission grain pigskin and stitched with domestically sourced nylon thread, giving it a resilience to stretching, sweating and wear.

About the buckle pictured above: this buckle is a nickel silver unit with a nice brass inlay – very cool, something new and different – looks great with Black or Brown’s.

This buckle will accommodate a 1.5″ wide belt

BUY THE KING HERE
I also make knife and tool sheaths from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide.
I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing.
If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I have happy customers, please take a look:
http://steveb.biz/notes/

Scarred Smarter

Scarred Smarter

The Scarred Smarter Fin is a Fin wallet with a beautiful complex coloration, a black edge and natural thread.. The Fin measures 6.5 long and 4″ at its widest point. The wallet fits a jean back pocket perfectly and is set up with a brass grommet for a chain (not included). There are 4-patch pockets made of pigskin in the Fin that can handle most all the crap you feel compelled to carry.

The wallet has a cool barb wire scar, that i worked into the flower design…something different.

BUY IT HERE

its got a keeper with a brass snap and a custom brass skull keeper that attached the keeper to the wallet.

The Fin is made from 6oz vegetable tan leather, a lighter lighter weight than my normal fare and is durable as hell. I use Fiebings oil dyes for my work, so the color mellows with age and takes on a great patina. This is a good looking wallet which will get you lots of comments and it is entirely hand made, by me, right here in the USA.

BUY IT HERE
I also make knife and tool sheaths from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide. I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing. If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I have happy customers, please take a look:

http://steveb.biz/notes/

BUY IT HERE

This is a unique, one of a kind sheath/ blade combo.

Halecky Blade & SteveB Sheath Combo

The blade is made totally by hand of Sanvik 12c27

Halecky, good friend crafts the blades, me, I make the sheaths.
The sheath is made of vegtan and has been both stamped and dyed for a beautiful tough finish

Beautiful and unique.

BUY IT HERE!!!

I just got this last week, from SteveT, a friend, a customer, an Asshole and someone who does not part with his money easily or frequently, being both a New Englander and a Professor of Accounting/ Finance… one of the money/ number fields..lol

“Once in a while when I wear your handmade belt, I think, “Which one of my relatives will wear this when I’m long gone?” Then, I picture them with the same thought. This is truly a timeless piece of art that will be around for a long time. Thanks for c reating a family heirloom. There is good stuff, and then there is great stuff. This belt falls into the later category.”

Thank you Steve,  for the kind words.

>>SEE MY GUESTBOOK HERE<<

It is a pleasure and an honor to make things for people that are willing to spend their hard earned dollars (vote with their wallet, so to speak) and value, and appreciate the effort and attention that went into making these goods.

I love what I do!

>>>>check out my work here<<<<

SteveT’s belt

SteveT’s belt

SteveT’s belt

SteveT’s belt

SteveT’s belt

steveb leatherworks – the Nolle

The Nolle is a one-of-a-kind custom sheath case partnered up with a brand new Leatherman (the best) Rebar tool (also the best of their offering).

BUY THE NOLLE HERE

This sheath/case is made from the best, domestically made and sourced materials, by hand, by yours truly. The Nolle is a serious piece of utility and fashion, that sure as hell will stand the test of time.

I used a piece of 6oz veg tan in the front, and the back portion is made from 10oz -very substantial – and reasonably beefy – not overboard. Everything I make is lined,and this is no exception, its lined with mission grain pigskin, sewn with American sourced thread, on an American made sewing machine.

This is a neat design that really keeps safe and holds your tool securely- and be assured will last a lifetime, if you don’t soak it in water repeatably or flog it mercilessly…. This sheath has a brass cool brass skull snap= and is super duty – its just a serious piece of kit. – youll not see anything like it anywhere else… and if you do, please let me know!

Hey gift givers – do you know a guy who likes leather (haha) a guy who likes having a tool on his belt? You know a guy who likes a bit of style and utility – then get it for him, this is for you.

BUY THE NOLLE HERE

about the Leatherman Rebar: the BRAND NEW tool that is included……

With the new Rebar, Leatherman fans will immediately recognize the iconic box-like shape found in Tim Leatherman’s original PST design. The Rebar pliers have been optimized for strength and feature replaceable wire/hard-wire cutters—a first for a four-inch tool from Leatherman. With all the features to get even the toughest jobs done, in a smaller, slimmer size, the new Rebar is sure to be an instant hit on job sites and home projects the world over.

BUY THE NOLLE HERE

Pocket wallets – a staple of my stock for years – still a winner – still as handy as ever.

I don’t make them much anymore, and wanting to keep affordable things in stock, i thought I’d revisit them, with a fresh eye. Simplify them a little bit, lowered the cost, etc… I really do want more people carrying my goods and I know cost is a barrier to entry, so here ya go!

This series of pocket wallets has nothing in the way of stamping, all of the interest is in color – pretty cool, pretty different – a little rough, a little sophisticated, super deep colors – these will age wonderfully. I suspect the colors will blend and overall will fade over time. I was pretty heavy handed with the topcoat, so they should keep their shine and be tough for a long time.

So there you have it, the Pocket Wallet – fresh new edition! <<  —   BUY IT HERE
Made from veg-tan leather and lined, this is tough and good looking. The snap is a brass snap – simple and durable.

Construction? I laminated a thin 3-4oz veg tan to some midweight chrome tanned black leather – the same leather as what Langlitz uses in their garments. This series of pocket wallets are a nice weight.

This pocket wallet/ card case holds a few credit cards, some business cards – this is not a “Costanza” (check “Seinfeld) and if you stuff it like George would, you will rip it. Take a few cards, not a stack – fold a few bills into the money clip and you are set. Let me say something about fit here… this case is tight, things are not loose or sloppy – like I said tight.

Why, you might ask?

Well leather stretches, and better to start tight, IMSHO, and work your way to loose over time.. rather than starting off loose and getting sloppy. if you really cant handle the tightness, stuff it full of those “fake credit cards, the gift ones – take the stuffed wallet – and run it under warm water until it is pretty wet – then let it air dry (NO SUN or heat guns!!) for 3 days – hang it to dry, let it dry naturally, pull out the cards when you are done, and you will be rewarded with a form fit piece of kit, you had a hand in customizing.

The money clip on the back of this unit is a killer – you will NOT bend it or break it – guaranteed. That alone is worth the price of admission!

A good money clip is a rare, and this is the one you’ve always wanted, its a Duckbill!
Handily – the clip is removable from the case- if you ever want to “decouple”.
So there you have it, the Pocket Wallet – fresh new edition! <<  —   BUY IT HERE

steveb leatherworks

LADIES, LADIES – remember, this isn’t for Mens only! – this is for you too, you can throw this in your purse -it is a handy – “cash and cards” solution!

Meet something new –  the Doorbell-ians!

BUY THE DOORBELL-IANS HERE> ON ETSY

The doorbell-ian (doorbell) is a special one-off series that I’ve made for this upcoming gift giving season. This is something new for me and I hope you like it! This unit has a decorative penny concho thats dated, if thats of any significance to you, check it out!

Even in the digital world, we, for the most part have doors in our lives. I think most of us would agree, that most of these doors would benefit from some sort  of an advance warning device, that would let us know that a person was coming through the door.
Great for: office, shop, garage, kitchen, front door. I showed it in use on my dirty shop door, not exactly a fine showcase, but give me a break, and please pretend its a gritty GUESS or Chanel ad, or something, ok?

BUY THE DOORBELL-IANS HERE> ON ETSY

Now many of the doorbell devices I’ve seen of this sort are the loud, cowbelly kind of things that make you jump (both the proprietor as well as visitor) – and I hate that, so these are not that type of obnoxious – they have a muted, nice sound – not tuned, but nice. These bells, many of them sparkly, are to reflect the season in which they are given – so they have a slight Festivus thing going on.

OK _ so now lets talk Bells. There are many folks who take bells super seriously and collect these beauties – for age, aesthetics and sound. The bells on my doorbell-ians are not of this type, they are not this fancy, But if you are so inclined and you are a bell collector, you can cut these bells off and restring it with your very best bells! Have at it!

This doorbell has been cut from the very  best domestically made 10oz , vegetable tanned leather. The doorbell is lined with mission grain pigskin and stitched with domestically sourced nylon thread.
The doorbell hangs from the softest, toughest deerskin, cut into a thong, provided by a hide from one of my customers: Boomer. You can adjust the length of the thong to suit your application.

BUY THE DOORBELL-IANS HERE> ON ETSY

The deerskin runs through a brass grommet with a classy vintage patina (not shiny, and new). I use only the best dyes, hardware and threads – and a ton of information is available on my web site.

http://steveb.biz/info.html

I also make knife and tool sheaths from heavy weight vegetable tanned cowhide. I’ve made guitar straps, leashes and wristbands – all with a different look and design as your commonly used to seeing. If you’re looking for something you don’t see, ask. I am always up for a challenge, within reason.

I have happy customers, please take a look:
http://steveb.biz/notes/

for more general info:
http://steveb.biz/info.html

Ok,come and get it, i mean, the Speedo rules. This isn’t the banana hammocky kind of Speedo either. this speedo is a kickass piece of leather craft: 

the Speedo sheath & tool is a one-of-a-kind custom sheath case partnered up with a brand new Leatherman (the best) Rebar tool (also the best of their offering).

This sheath/case is made from the best, domestically made and sourced materials, by hand, by yours truly. the Speedo sheath & tool is a serious piece of utility and fashion, that sure as hell will stand the test of time.

I used a piece of 6oz veg tan in the front, and the back portion is made from 10oz -very substantial – and reasonably beefy – not overboard. Everything I make is lined,and this is no exception, its lined with mission grain pigskin, sewn with American sourced thread, on an American made sewing machine.

This is a neat design that really keeps safe and holds your tool securely- and be assured will last a lifetime, if you don’t soak it in water repeatably or flog it mercilessly…. This sheath has a cool quarter snap, that I made= and is super duty – its just a serious piece of kit. – youll not see anything like it anywhere else… and if you do, please let me know!

The stamping is super textured up, really feels cool to the hand and will age wonderfully. The body of the sheath is a hand textured black and the “flap” is chocolate brown – very different.

Hey gift givers – do you know a guy who likes leather (haha) a guy who likes having a tool on his belt? You know a guy who likes a bit of style and utility – then get it for him, this is for you.

I am acknowledging my white collar roots here…

I will say with some degree of confidence – that finding decent belts for suits or dress “slacks” is darn near impossible. I mean, all of the shoe brands sell, what we’ sadly  consider “nice”, dress belts – but they are expensive, soulless pieces of foreign made shit. Check it out, many of the “good belts” have cardboard or fabric linings, laminated plastic edges… ick

So i thought i’d try my hand at making dress belts. I figured I’d make them, 1″ wide, perfect, the standard for the white collar, fancy pants wearing crowd. In time I will add a few different looks to this idea. Stay tuned. its a classy way for a guy who has to wear a suit, to show a little zippity badass hidden charm!

fancy pants 1

….for now, this is fancy Pants 1, get it by clicking on an image

The world is full of dunderheads, avoid them…

I love people.

I especially like crap talkers who take advantage of the privacy the interwebs allow (well not really, but read on).

But first let me share the foundation of this rant..

Not surprisingly, on occasion, I peek at Craigs List for leather working tools that folks are getting rid of. A lot of times, someone will find a box of stuff in their basement, post it on Craigs List, not knowing what they have. Sometimes, I’ll reach out and contact them to get the skinny on the deal, and sometimes wind up buying or finding homes for the tools. It all depends.

Because I am one of the very few “findable” leather craftsman on the East Coast, I’ve been called by folks asking me to find homes for stuff, and Ive had folks want to sell me stuff. More often that not, folks simply  want to get rid of the things and finding a good home for them makes them feel like they’ve put a dime in the karmic piggy bank. I am happy to oblige, because I love the craft and want more folks checking it out – and having access to tools is a start.

But, most of the time, what i find is junk, plain and simple. If things sit, especially in damp basements  – they rot and rust. About a year and a half ago I got a call from the widow of a saddle maker who asked me to come and clear out her husbands shop and find homes for the all the stuff.  As it turns out, most of the material and supplies were trash, I wound up taking to the dump for her. No money changed hands, and I wound up giving a lot of the tools away, as i didn’t need any of it (I am already well tooled up for my needs). I still have more of that stuff to offer to all of you, but it surprisingly takes time (a lot of it) to organize things like this and to give it away..ha!.. and I am time challenged….

So yesterday I see this ad on CL offering “leather work tools” – the lister boasts he’s got the Premiere selection…so I contacted them, letting them know that if they were of the mind to ditch the stuff, I’d help them out and find homes for the tools. Conversely I also shared that if they were looking to “cash out”, I wasn’t their guy.

This is what I wrote:

If your looking to cash out, I’m not the guy….. 

I am often called when someone has tools they don’t want, I find them good homes.

I don’t pay much, but I find tools homes that will use them, important only if you are a leather craftsman 

Regards

Steveb

So, this is what I get from the “seller”…..

I used to be a antique tool dealer and put stuff on eBay. I know exactly to the penny what they are worth which is around 4600.00. I know what I paid and I don’t know what cash out means but your a total bullshitter. I would vhave taken 2500.00 and you could have made a tidy profit. I know the deal, and you probably don’t have 2500.00. if I sold them to you cheap they would be on eBay in a day. I’m more of a tool guy than you will ever be.. go bullshit someone else

 loose my email Mr I find them good homes. What a bunch of crap. I’ve been a dealer over 20 years an never heard a dumber story in my life. I can tell ou the exact year of any woodworking tool and what its worth just from a photo. My god. I own a cabinet shop chump, I use more tools than you will ever see. You insulted me and tried to guilt me. I would love to meet you face to face so I can laugh in it.

Sent from Windows Mail

(figures, he’s a Windows user…haha)

Sadly, this is what happens when a “professional tool guy who knows what he’s got” meets up with a person (me) who has no interest in anything other than getting tools in the hands of folks that want to learn Leathercraft. Guys like this  are the people that wind up offering mediocre “vintage” Craftool stamps for $10 apiece on ebay to rookies, when the knowledgeable  crafter knows for the most part they’re worth less than half of that. When i first started out, I didn’t know squat, and learned the hard (and expensive way) and I had a few people like this character take advantage of me, until i learned better.

For the record, these days I support the finest toolmakers in the craft whose tools cost DEARLY. As my work has gotten better and my commitment to the craft has strengthened, I’ve made the hefty investment in quality tools.

As those who know me can attest, making money off of selling leather work tools is of no interest to me, its not my game, its not attractive to me, the reward is tiny for the effort expended, and I have more fun giving stuff away than selling it (and luckily, I can afford to).

Its pretty funny (sorta) when people flex their keyboards and get bold behind the cloak of anonymity.  Its also pretty telling when the hate and bitterness explode from them like a balloon losing air. Its also a reminder to all of us, that on the interwebs you simply never know whom you are talking to, so always be nice and respectful. Why? because you just might find yourself in that “oh so” awkward situation where you get to deliver, in person on the promise, (or is that a threat): ” I would love to meet you face to face so I can laugh in it.”.. Oh boy!

I didn’t bother responding to my new bud, the professional tool seller, because whats the point? Its not worth explaining, its not worth the hassle or stress. Some people are just haters, because thats what they do  – hate – and its not my job to fix ’em. Thinking on it, I have a feeling he’s filled with pissed-offedness from the frustration of selling tools piece by piece…lol

With all of this said – I still do have leather craft  tools (stamps for the most part)  to give away and if you are starting your leather craft hobby and are looking for things to get you going on your way – let me know,

Leather crafters > If I have what you need, I am happy to send it your way, for the cost of postage…..
Conversely, If you have tools that need homes and don’t know where to go, give me a ring……

Peace out!

steveb

Kitty Bags…hmmm.. they are made from quality veg tan leather and pieces of elk- the same stuff I use in my other work..so they will last along time and can take one hell of a beating. I started making them to put wall warts, connector and cables in- to transport little things in my daypack or saddlebags. You can put odds and ends in them and wont lose ’em.

What else can I say, they look good, will last and are handy as hell.

You can find details on Kitty Bags, as well as find this, and my other goods on ETSY… Thanks for looking!

Kitty Bags

Perfecta Wallets are something you are not going to see anywhere but here. Perfecta Wallets have a shape that lets them sit perfectly in a pair of  jeans pants back pocket. They are made from thick Veg tan leather thats been dyed and decorated.. The shape is a riff of of my Fin wallets and the carving and stamping reflects a Polynesian influence, the art in large part comes from a friend Matt Kamaio.

The wallets have 4 pockets, enough to hold a ton of crap.

You can find details on my wallets, as well as find this, and my other goods on ETSY… Thanks for looking!

The Perfecta

Perfecta Wallets are something you are not going to see anywhere but here. Perfecta Wallets have a shape that lets them sit perfectly in a pair of  jeans pants back pocket. They are made from thick Veg tan leather thats been dyed and decorated.. The shape is a riff of of my Fin wallets and the carving and stamping reflects a Polynesian influence, the art in large part comes from a friend Matt Kamaio.

The wallets have 4 pockets, enough to hold a ton of crap.

You can find details on my wallets, as well as find this, and my other goods on ETSY… Thanks for looking!

Perfecta Wallet

The Reddy Thready is a black belt with some killer stamping, made from heavyweight Veg tan leather with some great red stitching. .. and ready to go to a home…
It is fully lined with pigskin, stitched with poly thread (made in the USA) and ready to be cut to your length.
Its brass buckle exudes charm and will insure you are the object of affection no matter where you might venture…

You can find details on my belts as well as find this and my other goods on ETSY… Thanks for looking!

The Reddy Thready