When I go to Tandy I am looking for leather that will yield a piece 2 ¾ to 3 inches wide, at least 16 inches long, hopefully in the 20 inch range. This is not including handles or fold over to accommodate handles. It should be soft enough that it is foldable. Swede or anything super soft is NOT what you want. Just a nice happy medium. I have also used very thick and stiff cowhide. This works, but not as nicely as the softer, thinner stuff. Other thing to look at is the finish. Hard and shiny is not that good for stropping. You do not want shellac type finish designer leathers. Rugged but finished leather works for me, but I know that might be a bit vague till you feel it in your hands.