Customer Reviews

The Art and Craft of Leather: Leatherworking tools and techniques explained in detail

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Very good leather working book that gives a superior introduction to the art of leather craft, including insight to old world crafting. I gave it four stars because it is more geared to the intermediate and professional crafter who has an understanding of leather, dyes, tools and machinery used. Also, the projects, though well photographed and explained, might be a bit too overwhelming for the beginner. These are less practice projects as much as they are functional and art pieces. The tools used are professional, not to be confused with the low cost hobbyist tools one can order from Tandy or other craft stores. The machinery pictured can run into the hundreds and thousands of dollars, not something that you would invest in if you intend to make leathercraft a casual pursuit. Even the dyes, adhesives, wax, and paint introduction are important parts in the production of an aesthetic leather project. I would have liked the authors to delve into more areas, especially old world techniques, but this book does whet one's appetite to pursue the craft deeper. The only major criticism I had was in the author's statement on page 42, where she states that steel hammers are used for stamping. In the illustrations you see a ballpeen hammer (!) being used ! That's a half star deduction right there.Rawhide mallets, preferably Osborne, are the best in my opinion. Overall, the book would be a welcome addition to the leathercrafters library.Leathercraft ToolsLeathercraft an Early Craft Book (An Early craft book)Leathercraft Lacing and Saddle Stitching. Book Three.Leathercraft For AmateursHome Tanning and Leathercraft Simplified107 leathercraft designs in actual sizeGeneral LeathercraftLeather BraidingLeathercraft, you can wear: A complete basic course in leathercraft and 36 projects you can wear with step-by-step instructionsThe Art of Making Leather Cases, Vol. 1

I recently was given an old set of leather working tools and became enamored with small projects. Everything local is very oriented towards Tandy Products and I was looking for something different. This is written by 2 women from Spain and the book has a very Moorish / North African feel. It is a very practical short history of leather, then a god overview of techniques, and then some intorductory projects including weaving, carving, painting and tooling of different leathers. There also is a section with pictures of Modern & old Leather Art. Much more than a coffee-table book!

The book is great in helping a person to select the right tool and how to use it. So many small things to know and book takes you there.

This is a great book on leather crafting for myself as a beginner and to teach other people. A good starter book for those who have some arts and craft experience especially sewing, and other crafts, such as painting, ceramic, mold making, paper crafts, etc. Fantastic photograhs with step-by-step instructions.

I have many Leather Craft books and I must say, I have enjoyed this book more than any of them! The illustrations are excellent. I am a beginner at Leather Crafting and I understood everything I read. There are step by step instructions for several crafts. A beautiful Photo Album! I love this book!

This book wasn't exactly what I expected it would be. It is more of a history of the development of the uses of leather which I found really interesting. It lists many leatherworking techniques, the tools used and shows how to use the techniques...some of which I wasn't aware. If you love working with leather this is a good book for you!

Lots of blank page space and pictures of pointless artsy craft projects with no real world use whatsoever. Not even the single slightest mention of tack, holsters or even belts.

This book is very informative and has lots of very detailed photos. I wish it had a little more depth but it covers all of the categories nicely.

This is a wonderful book and I am totally amazed with the amount of information contained in it. I am new to leather working but this is by far one of the best books I have purchased.

Sorry this book does not impress me at all. When was the last time you saw someone doing learthecraft with a ballpeen hammer? Like to make a belt or wallet? I did not find that information in this book.
This book is going onto ebay.