Thread: Make your own paddle strop

I wanted a leather strop to use with paste. I happened to have some thick, top-grain cowhide left over from something or other, so I made a paddle out of stiff pine. Then, I took advantage of the fact that leather stretches when wet, and soaked the leather and tacked it tightly over the ends of the paddle. Use lots of tacks so there isn't any room to warp the leather between tacks, and be sure to tack at least 3/8 inch below the surface of the paddle so you won't hit anything.

When the leather dries, it becomes as tight as -- well, you get the idea.

I've been impressed by the craftsmanship shown on this thread. Mine is strictly utilitarian.

j

I have now made my balsa strops using the thread photos as examples

I made 2 so I now have 4 sides

Question is what do I do next - I am really new to this so need a little guidance