Repurposed kilt buckle...

**Ryan Ross** · 19th January 10, 11:01 AM

Even though this isn't a directly kilt related project, I wanted to post pics for a couple reasons. Firstly, I used an old kilt buckle in the construction. Secondly, I couldn't have achieved success in this project (my first attempt at real leather working) without the kind consultations and suggestions of L. Adron Britt, master sporran maker. Thanks, buddy.

Now, on to the goods. It's a cover for my girlfriend's prayer book. I used deer hide, oil tanned leather, and the extra hip buckle from one of my old kilts... and it's hand stitched- didn't use one of those "sewing awl" things; used a plain awl and thread with a needle on each end.

Constructive criticism is most welcome, as this is, again, my first real endeavor in leather work.

**ShaunMaxwell** · 19th January 10, 11:20 AM

Very nice!

**Tattoo Bradley** · 19th January 10, 11:27 AM

Very cool. Is the strap attached in the back or is it seperate, like a belt?

**svc40bt** · 19th January 10, 11:31 AM

You did a fine job. If this is your first try, you have found a new talent.

**Ryan Ross** · 19th January 10, 11:48 AM

Thanks, fella's!

Originally Posted by Tattoo Bradley

Very cool. Is the strap attached in the back or is it seperate, like a belt?

The strap is stitched to the flap, right below where the buckle is stitched to the strap. I reinforced the top fold-over portion of the flap with a thicker piece of leather on the under side, and attached the strap there, because the deer hide without reinforcing leather has too much stretch to be sturdy under too much strain. There are about 450 stitches in the whole project. I tried to build this thing to last.

**Tobus** · 19th January 10, 11:42 AM

I think it looks GREAT for your first piece. Heck, it looks great even for someone who's done plenty of that kind of work.

**Tattoo Bradley** · 19th January 10, 11:49 AM

I really dig it. I'm feeling inspired to try something like this for my day planner.

**Ryan Ross** · 19th January 10, 12:08 PM

Originally Posted by Tattoo Bradley

I really dig it. I'm feeling inspired to try something like this for my day planner.

You should give it a shot, brother! It's quite easy, really. Below is a picture I just took, showing it off of the book. It looks to lack shape and refinement when not on the book (especially because the tabs that get tucked between the spine and binding are not uniform- but hey, no one will ever see them once it's on the book), but I made it to be a super tight fit, so it stretches to fit the existing cover just right.

Just lay the book out and trace it's cover onto the back side of the leather. From there, leave enough leather to make the turn-overs for the front and back covers, and the tabs at the spine. Also, you'll need to sew the flap on before you sew the back sleeve closed... and be very careful to not sew it into the seam while you are sewing up the back sleeve.