Holster and such

[Win1885]

I am a newbie to this forum, but I've been leather crafting for years.
Some of my work can be seen here:

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/win18852000/album?.dir=/b090

I like the old west holsters and only build those styles.  Those
shown in the pic of 3 holsters are my version of the R. E. Rice holster
of Dodge City, Kansas.  I leave to toe open because I like the squared off toe rather than the round sewn toe on the original.  Original can be seen
on page 101 of "Packing Iron", the best book I read regarding old leather.
The pic of the 2 Cheyenne style holsters: One is finished and made for a Smith and Wesson Scofield.  The other is in the process of being molded to a Remington 1858 Army.  It's still wet. The belt shown with the pouch is an Old West Reproductions product.  I made the money belt with the 1st
Cheyenne holster, and it was my first attempt at a gun belt.  As most of you probably know, there's a big no-no on this belt.....how many of you can spot it?
Tom I.

[Win1885]

Okay......if you look at the first picture, showing the Cheyenne holster and belt, note how the billet is sewn on the belt.   It should never be cross
stitched like I did.  Punching stitch holes across the leather like that, weakens the leather.  It hasn't ripped off yet, but as it ages, it might.  
If anything goes there, it should be a rivet in the middle of the two rows
of stitching.  I didn't learn the correct way until a long time after I'd finished the belt.
Tom I.

[Dusty Miller]

I'd really like to start making my own belts and holsters.  Any advice for the complete novice?

[Win1885]

I'd really like to start making my own belts and holsters.  Any advice for the complete novice?

Hi Dusty,
The first thing I do when attempting something new is get some books or magazines and try to learn as much as I can.  www.Tandyleather.com  has several that are excellent and not expensive.  "How to make Holsters"
is a good one to start with.  Secondly, get the proper tools.  Third, learn
how to saddle stitch.  Then practice making patterns.  To decorate the project you'll need to buy stamping tools and practice some more.  The best teacher is experience, so jump in and get you feet wet.  :wink:
Tom I.

[sgtt]

If there is a Tandy open near you, they offer classes.  Very helpful to a non-artistic person such as myself.  When I took it, it was free.  Don't know about now though.

[Dusty Miller]

Unfortunately the Tandy store here in Modesto folded.  That was the first thing I looked for in the phone book.  I ordered Stolhmans's book.  I guess when it arrives I'll find out if I can do it or not.  I see that Tandy offers some kits (online), does anybody know if they are any good or do that include a bunch of stuff that will get used just once in awhile?