This is the first piece that I’ve ever designed by myself, which, on one level isn’t that meaningful but on the other hand it’s actually incredibly cool. This one, I can say, is mine and there is something intangible to that which I cannot articulate. The piece itself is simple. An unlined men’s bifold wallet with three pockets on each side. I introduced an offset style curve to the design to make it a little bit different. My idea was to try and create the idea of waves which I do not think I am yet successful at.

This was my first time using the Dakota Belly from Conceria La Perla Azzurra, an Italian tannery who’s famed for their Buttero leather. The Dakota Belly has the wonderful property of having similar colours to the Buttero but being a lot cheaper which my wallet appreciates. I found the leather pretty easy to work with, if anything, it almost cut too easily?

Additionally, the colouring does not go all the way through which is what creates the nice edge differential. This could also be a good option to experiment with edge paint here? Something dark brown or potentially black may just give a little bit more depth to the piece?

The design itself was made in Inkscape, I messed up a couple little bits which came through in the finished piece. It’s always good to know what went wrong though. I am a complete novice at Inkscape and I need to improve my skills here, particularly if I want to keep on making my own designs. Alternatively, I could aim to use Adobe Illustrator which unfortunately would require completely changing operating system again, most likely back to Windows. I’m not really sure if I want to do this at the moment but it’s something I could think about using Windows Subsystem Linux as a work around for some of my other. On the other hand, Illustrator is $350/year which for casual use is excessive.

I also already have designs bubbling round in my head that I want to build. Feels like a new chapter.

Lessons

• Be careful when beveling edges, aim to get an even bevel where possible
• Next investment in tools needs to be in stitching chisels and a stitching pony in order to speed up stitching
• Use pegs to hold the glued pieces in place. Saves pressing on them. Could also use bull clips
• Pay attention when punching stitching holes, one of the lines is a little bit wobbly
• Having a printer at home could be a good idea
• Learn how to use Inkscape better.
• The Aussie Leather Conditioner gives a wonderful gloss
• Use a lighter to help prop the piece up in order to take photos

Materials

• Leather: Conceria La Perla Azzurra - Tan Dakota Belly - 1.2mm
• Thread: 0.5mm Ritza Tiger Thread in Havana
• Glue: Kyoshine Elle - Leather Glue 100 Water Based
• Edging: Seiwa Tokonole
• Finish: Aussie Leather Conditioner (with Beeswax)

Pattern

Self drafted using Inkscape. Developed through measuring an existing wallet as one as common types of currency and cards to get the size and shape.

This is my first developed design.

Photos