Quote Originally Posted by pinklather View Post
Hirlau, we haven't spoken much, but I have great respect & appreciation for your posts.

My local leather shop (Portland Leather) scores an edge w/ a ballpoint along a metal straightedge before reaching for a blade. Next, takes a blade along the same straight edge & tries to keep it in the bottom of the trough created by the ballpoint. Next, uses a straight edge cutting tool (about $20) which is simply a blade w/ a width-limiting guide, cutting inside the slice left by the knife. I wasn't worth a dang at cutting straight either. If the variation in the cut is minimal, an edging tool will make it undetectable. For finish-burnishing the edge, the traditional method is literally to wipe spit on the raw edge, and burnish w/ a wooden handled tool - even a wooden kitchen spoon. (Thank You HidestoArt)

HidestoArt is probably the most experienced leather worker I'll ever have the pleasure to speak with. And, he's a wonderful guy. Connecting with him is sure to be informative, and a great pleasure.

All Best to you & yours, Hirlau
Thank you for the kind words,,,,

I'm going to spend time tonight looking for the tools you mentioned & read up on the techniques,,, this helps me a lot,,, the cutting was the hardest part for me.