Starting leathercraft with Amazon tool kits

[davidm!]

I am just getting started with leatherworking and I want to know if those all in one kits on Amazon are actually worth the money. Many of these sets come with dozens of items but I worry that I might be paying for tools I will never use. I am considering buying my tools separately instead so I can focus on high quality basics like a good knife and a proper stitching pony. I do not want to waste cash on a cheap kit only to find out I still need to buy better versions of the same gear a week later. It seems smarter to start small and grow my collection as I learn the craft. Does anyone have recommendations for the right equipment to finish my first project without getting frustrated by poor quality steel? Thank you.

 

[fluffyman]

I am just getting started with leatherworking and I want to know if those all in one kits on Amazon are actually worth the money. Many of these sets come with dozens of items but I worry that I might be paying for tools I will never use. I am considering buying my tools separately instead so I can focus on high quality basics like a good knife and a proper stitching pony. I do not want to waste cash on a cheap kit only to find out I still need to buy better versions of the same gear a week later. It seems smarter to start small and grow my collection as I learn the craft. Does anyone have recommendations for the right equipment to finish my first project without getting frustrated by poor quality steel? Thank you.

Start with just five basic tools which are a sharp utility knife, a wing divider, two needles, waxed thread, and a diamond chisel set.

 

[don thugz]

@davidm! Look for a local leather shop or a specialized online retailer because their entry level tools are often much better than the generic Amazon options.

 

[Lederhosen Men]

I am just getting started with leatherworking and I want to know if those all in one kits on Amazon are actually worth the money. Many of these sets come with dozens of items but I worry that I might be paying for tools I will never use. I am considering buying my tools separately instead so I can focus on high quality basics like a good knife and a proper stitching pony. I do not want to waste cash on a cheap kit only to find out I still need to buy better versions of the same gear a week later. It seems smarter to start small and grow my collection as I learn the craft. Does anyone have recommendations for the right equipment to finish my first project without getting frustrated by poor quality steel? Thank you.

When I got started, I tried a full kit and ended up replacing most of the tools anyway. I found it way better to invest in a few quality basics and expand later. You really just need a good knife, stitching tools, and some needles and thread to finish your first project.

 

[alex retha]

Avoid kits that include low quality swivel knives or stamping tools if you only plan to make wallets or card holders.

 

[winniepops]

Buy a small piece of vegetable tanned scrap leather to practice your stitching before you move on to expensive hides.