DIY leather holster?

[K-Man]

Your finish is going to react differently on different qualities of veg tanned leather. As Wingshooter stated, oil based dyes penetrate into the leather better than the spirit or water based dyes. I use oil based dyes. When I used to use mineral spirit based dyes, I would apply one thin coat of neatsfoot oil. That ends up giving you a more consistent finish when you apply the dye.

More often than not, I apply the dye after I've assembled and molded the holster. If I'm doing multi-color pieces, then I dye before assembly/molding. I apply the dye by dipping it in the dye, which is contained in a plastic container. You end up with a much more even finish than you'll experience with applying the dye by a dauber or cloth. Oftentimes you'll see streaks, etc., if using a dauber. YMMV. After it's dry, I buff it lightly with a soft cloth, removing any residue. I then spray it with leather sheen, giving it a couple of coats. Any other type of finish would be appropriate, too.

 

[Wingshooter]

K-Man, where do you get your stingray hide? I've been mulling it overnight and I'd really like to try and do an inlay holster with some of it. I did a google search, but mostly turned up bags, wallets, and such. Of course, I could be looking it up the wrong way.

If it's a wholesale only type thing then I understand, but at least it would be a start for me.

Thanks,

Chris

 

[K-Man]

I have some I can get to you, dependent on how much you're wanting. Send me a pm or email and we can discuss details.

You can also find it on eBay.

If you like working with it, then I'd be more than happy to provide you the contact info to get more.

 

[Wingshooter]

Just sent you an e-mail!

 

[Shorts]

I have good news and bad news.

First, the good news: My holster is pretty much finished and I'm halfway ok with my first work of this kind. I only have to get a coat of wax on it and make it all pretty. I dyed it black, swabbed the color on. The tight spots were tough to get, but saturation can be a friend. The gun is very tight in there, so a little wear, maybe a touch of conditioner might help. But I'll wait on that and just focus on wear for now. It is pretty rigid too, which I guess is a good thing.

Now, the bad news: The functionality of the holster sucks While the thought of the design and comfort is excellent as I wear it, the gun is just a bit too big (length wise) and is top heavy. So the gun has a tendency to lean forward away from my body. Not cool. I think this design would work perfect for shorter barrels. The 86s barrel measures out to 4.4", so it's on the tall side for a "small gun". For a bit I thought I'd see if I could come up with a fix for this holster. But on second thought, chalk it up as lessons learned. But my first actual holster was made and came out, well, like a holster. I just have to do a design that functions

Anyhow, this means I must make a new holster. Oh no... the horror I'm starting on it tonight, at least getting the pattern cut out. Hopefully the next one turns out an all around better

 

[K-Man]

Shorts, that's a very fine result for your first go at it. As I mentioned earlier, you're on the right track with thinking through how a holster/gun should be positioned on your body and how to make that happen. You obviously have the wherewithal to see it through and make it work. Many others would give it up and move onto something else.

Here's a link that may give you some other points of consideration:

http://www.womensholsters.com/choosing.html

It's mostly basic info, but it may provide some points to ponder.