I'm not only new to the forum but to the entire leathercrafting, so I would like to ask from you guys what tools are best suited for beginners. I'd appreciate if you could forward some links here so I can shop online. Not really a fan of going to stores to get a "feel of it" or something.
New & need suggestions
- Thread starter shiba inu
- Start date
Welcome! I'd recommend starting with basic tools from Tandy. They're higher quality than hobby store kits but still affordable. If you’re doing floral carving, Tandy's a good option. For construction, grab a 5mm six prong and two prong stitching chisel set, a mallet, and a groover. These will last a long time and are easy to use when you’re starting out. I’ll share some links soon!!!
Brokennock
Active member
Hello Shiba, I'm going to suggest a piece of equipment that I think most would not include in very basic first tools and equipment lists. I'll let others cover awls, needles, tools for stitch spacing, and such. Your answer to @Artificer will help in those things. I am assuming you are hand stitching, if not disregard.
Get a stitching clam. I made many items without one starting out. Then I found this one that I felt was well designed and reasonably priced...
https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/products/stitching-pony
You can see it in use in my introductions post. This made working so much easier and less frustrating. As a beginner stack the odds in your favor and find ways to reduce frustration, without cutting corners, you will learn faster and easier if you aren't fighting things.
- Joined
- May 4, 2025
- Messages
- 63
Brokennock I will second that. A good stitching pony would have saved me a lot of heartache starting out.
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Welcome! I'm new to the forum too btw lol. ANyway, for beginners, a basic leathercraft kit with punches, needles, and a swivel knife works great. Plenty of good starter kits available online, type away so it would direct you to the ones nearest you first
