Sure, making a belt is easy as far as that goes but there's more to it than you would think. Samuel and I worked together on deciding firstly, whether or not we even liked this leather. We studied the hide when it came in a couple weeks ago. As the days went by, I began to get some ideas. So we pulled it back out yesterday and laid it out on the table. We take measurements and calculate the potential yield. (using a calculator LoL) This also helps me determine the selling price of the belt. We talk how wide the belt should be. This is also determined by which buckle we like for the belt. Then I check out Steve's stash of buckle options for that width. Which one will best compliment the leather. How will the buckle be attached and will we add anything special like a design, will we dye it, or will it just be all about the leather. Should the edges be dyed or left natural? I decide that the belt will be 1 3/8" wide - the perfect width for being wide but not too wide. After a few test runs, we like the edges dyed a medium brown.
As we begin to work with the leather, we get to know it and appreciate it's very unique characteristics. We notice the super smooth feel as its cut. The blade goes cleanly through. As the edges are beveled, you hear and feel the difference from any other leather we've lately used. I could extend this with even more details about the multiple steps and thought process we go through to get the final product but I've got to get ready to go to work so the belts can actually be completed!
The leather is LOCALLY tanned and is some of the best of it's kind.
It is a hefty and dense harness leather with a very nice hand and ages to a rich patina.
I'm using a USA made solid brass buckle.
The edges will be dyed a medium brown.
The edges will be hand burnished until they are super slick and carry a little shine.
The leather itself will remain in its natural, undyed state. It's beautiful color variation is from the amount of tallows stuffed in this leather AND its 100% veg tanned with no harsh chemicals
I cant wait to see what the belt looks like after a few weeks of wear.
