How to Craft Leather Straps

Leather straps can be dyed, stamped and carved.

There are a multitude of ways to craft leather straps. Belts, purses, stirrups and luggage all have a need for decorative leather. Choosing and cutting the leather are the first steps when beginning any project. Once your leather strap is cut to size there are still a number of directions that can be taken to personalize the strap. The leather can be dyed, stamped and carved to create an exceptional piece of art.

Things You'll Need

• Leather strap cut to size
• Alcohol or water based dye
• Sponge
• Brush
• Stamp
• Wooden mallet
• Stylus
• Swivel knife
• Bevel

Instructions

1. Dye the leather by first cleaning it with a brush, soap and water. Rinse, then pat the leather dry with a sponge, leaving it moist. The leather should not be too wet or dry. If unsure, allow the strap to dry completely and then moisten it with the sponge. Next, brush the dye on with long strokes so that it goes on evenly. Allow the dye to dry for one to two hours, flexing it frequently to keep it from getting stiff. Repeat the dying process until the desired shade is reached. The best leather dyes are alcohol based, but environmental laws are starting to phase them out. The market is currently developing water based dyes, but they are not as easily absorbed.

2. Stamp the leather strap to create a professional, refined look. It is simple to do. Moisten the leather, also known as casing the leather, then align the stamp on the preferred spot. Hit it firmly with a wooden mallet. Continue in this fashion down the strap until the desired look is accomplished.

3. Carve the leather strap by first slightly moistening it. Then, prepare a pattern on tracing paper. Using a stylus, a small tool for writing, trace the pattern onto the leather. Using the swivel knife, carve the pattern into the leather and then use a bevel to press down part of the cut to give it dimension. A carved design can flow smoothly between stamps to create a delicate and finished appearance.

References

• Leatherique: How to Dye Leather
• One Stop Candle: Letter Stamping Leather
• Craft Cave: Carving Leather Basics