first attempt at a sporran

[Hachiman]

So, you found and used the post closure . . . how easy is it to fit and use? I've thought of using one, but don't know if it would be difficult to attach in creation or for day-to-day usage. It should be secure (as long as you avoid headstands, not a good idea kilted anyways). Where did you get your's? How was the customer service/price/quality balance?

The post closure cost me $12.50 from my 'local' tannery (Packers Tannery, Burpengary, QLD)...I always go there for my supplies, even though it means driving past 2-3 retailers to get there. I get a discount for being involved in a medieval re-creation group, and I get good service every time.

As for ease of fitting, the post closure isn't too hard to fit. It requires two rivets (I use cold press rivets, not pop rivets) and some careful measuring to make sure it's aligned properly. The down side to the post closure is, because of the thick base of the female part of the system, there's a 0.5 cm thick plate on the inside of the sporran now. I'll cover that with more of the material that was used for the lining.

Also, due to the two layers of leather, I had to enlarge the hole a little. I think that was more a problem with the closure, actually, because even when it wasn't fitted, the post only went thru the hole about a third of the way before it jammed tight.

For Ron's behalf:
What was the dimensions in inches (or metric if that is what you use, though most of us Americans don't have any idea of what that would mean)?

The pattern was designed around an 8" diameter circle. I used a thin but stiff cardboard, and a compass and pencil, to scribe a circle, and then drew a 'centre-line' around which all other parts of the pattern were based.

Did you glue the lining? How'd you affix the female part of the catch? And are you going belt or straps/chain?

Yes, Ozmeath, I did glue the lining - pinwale cord. The female part of the catch pokes thru a hole in the front shell of the sporran, and the plate is held in place with rivets. I'll see if I can get a pic to help illustrate what I mean. I'm going to start work on the straps next - I've got a strap-cutter, and enough of the same leather used in the sporran to make some straps. I'll soften the leather with "GEE-Y" after I dye it but before I seal the leather, which should help them to conform to my body when in use.

To everyone else, thanks for the positive feedback - it's nice to get the approval of one's peers!

cheers

Hachiman