A sporran question that's probably alread been answered.

[Lee Bradbury]

I've tried to search for this but can't find anything, but I may have missed it so I apologise if I have. I'm thinking of making a sporran in the style of this one ( http://www.heritageofscotland.com/pi...p#.UioDyhJwaUk ) and I'm wondering if chamois leather, of a double thickness (sticking two sheets together) and dyed an appropriate colour would work. Any tips would be greatly received.

[flyrod6057]

It's my opinion that chamois leather is unsuitable for sporran construction, even two layers. However, it would be an inexpensive experiment, so you might as well give it a shot... You might look around for deerskin, or perhaps soft leather.

[David Thorpe]

I agree with flyrod. Deerskin would work much better. However, unless you have some on hand, it would likely be less expensive to just buy that one.

[Canuck]

The one you have posted there is rather flimsy looking. Possibly laminating the leather would help. I would head to a leather supplier and seek out about 4-5 sq/ft of 2-2.75 oz leather. this will enable to give the sporran some structure and a bit of shape. A domestic sewing machine with a leather needle and teflon presser foot will allow you to get reasonable results in stitching without breaking the bank. The foot costs about $12 and the needles would be around $5.
good luck with your project

[artificer]

I've got to say that I'm with the rabble here- I think chamois (and deerskin as well ) would be too unstructured to keep any part of this sporran in shape.

A firm handed chrome tanned (upholstery) leather in the weight Robert mentioned above (2-3oz) would give you a sporran that might actually keep it's shape if you've put anything heavier than a car key in it.

If you don't have a sturdy sewing machine on-hand pick up either a pack of glover's needles or an awl and some harness needles and some waxed thread and you should be good-to-go.

ith:

[TJ Kelley]

Go thrifting for a leather jacket. Or if you have a Tandy near, scraps for around $4-5 a lb.
Good luck, post up with some photos when your done.

[Lee Bradbury]

Thanks for the comments, tips and hints everyone, very much appreciated. I thought the chamois might be too thin so I will endeavour to find somewhere around here that I can get some leather of the type mentioned but will also give the chamois a go just to get some practice time.