Thanks guys. I've got all the materials together and spent this evening cutting all the parts out (making two sporrans also). Will start tooling and dyeing tomorrow or Saturday. Will try to get pictures up during the process.

I like the idea of stitching a pattern. My concern (not having a belt available for reference) was what to do with the rivet/stitching that will stick out in the back of the belt. It might just be one of those "well of course that rivet is supposed to be there, all belts are made that way" kind of solution. This is one thing I will be checking out at the Games in a few weeks.

Was also wondering about the bulk of the buckle in the small of your back.
One thought I had was to put a Sam Brown stud back there for the small strap to attach to--might be less bulky overall. I'll have to play with that idea. A snap might work also. Hhhmmm.....