Leather Punch?

[NewPiperinNY]

Hey all... I have to work on some belts (to make them smaller luckily) and was just wondering what is the leather punch of choice for the room.. I usually start with a nail, and then insert a larger mail or screw.. and then finally a screwdriver... (I can imagine the leather workers cringing already) or just using a set of allen wrenches once the hole is made to enlarge it.. but of course -- the presentation of such a belt is horriffic at best.

Any suggestions?

[Bugbear]

[cavscout]

Working with what you possibly already have, you could get by better with a sharp drill bit. Not the best option but possible.

Otherwise, since all you are using it for is to resize a few belts. I'd hit walmart and get the rotary punch from the craft aisle. should be between $8 and $12 I think.
http://tlf.live.acumium.com/home/dep...ure=Product_20

Best option is the maxi-punch set from tandy
http://tlf.live.acumium.com/home/dep...ure=Product_14

[Jack Daw]

I use my piercing stare.

It doesn't work, though.

[Bugbear]

I have used drill bits in my drill press, and it works alright for round rather than oval holes; especially if you need to set up a jig for making lots and lots of holes. Just be careful of any oils that might be on the bits that might stain the leather.

A sett of punches is really best.

I'm not a leather worker, just do a little bit here and there.

[Panache]

Leather working is so much easier with a rotary punch.

I think I paid $16-17 for it and it is worth every penny!

Cheers

Jamie

[budd4766]

I do leatherwork, and yeah, I'm cringing....you can do a lot of damage to a piece with a nail!

I use a punch I'd found in Tractor supply for about $25...comes with the "plier-like" handle, and interchangeable "bits" for different sizes. It's a lot tougher than the rotary punches, though they will work for most stuff.

[NewPiperinNY]

see.. I told you!

[NewPiperinNY]

I do leatherwork, and yeah, I'm cringing....you can do a lot of damage to a piece with a nail!

I use a punch I'd found in Tractor supply for about $25...comes with the "plier-like" handle, and interchangeable "bits" for different sizes. It's a lot tougher than the rotary punches, though they will work for most stuff.

I am thinking that in the course of normal kilt wearing (especially when it is a uniform) a good leather punch such as this would go a long way.

[NewPiperinNY]

I use my piercing stare.

It doesn't work, though.

That stare works on my wife though... she can punch through anything!